Day parties seem to be the new thing for enjoying the weekend, but some of us still love a good old fashioned brunch with the homies. Here are some of the top spots in the Bay Area to try on your next search for a scrumptious meal with friends.
Souley Vegan
Want chicken and waffles for brunch, but you’re strictly vegan? Souley Vegan’s Sunday brunch has you covered. Serving everything from seitan shrimp ‘n’ grits to fried candied yam tots, your dietary restrictions never have to affect your ability to get your soul food fix, even at brunch! Bottomless mimosas are also served.
Lake Chalet
Eating brunch on the lake on a hot summer day is possible here. One of my personal favorites, this neighborhood gem serves up the best crab cake benedict I’ve ever had, and the drinks aren’t too shabby either. Many times, beautiful decor covers up mediocre fare, but Lake Chalet’s food is just as awesome as its atmosphere.
The Terrace Room
Meat eaters, you have found your spot for chicken and waffles on a serene Sunday morning. Although The Terrace Room doesn’t sit on the lake, it does have a beautiful view of it and much of downtown. The service here is impeccable, and a great place to bring your parents or visiting relatives.
Lois The Pie Queen
If you arrive during their busy hours, be prepared for a wait at this popular spot. She might be the pie queen, but Lois also does brunch right, as evidenced by the bustling atmosphere during the weekend rush.
Oakland Grill
Oakland Grill is tucked neatly into Jack London Square, and is the perfect spot after a long night of partying, when you’re famished, exhausted, and happy with your crew of friends. The portions are phenomenal and the prices are affordable, so get ready to fill your belly and recharge for the rest of your day (or before a long nap).
Pepples Donut Farm
Brunch is something that you want to linger in, spending hours lounging and enjoying every morsel of food and conversation. But sometimes you don’t have time for all of that and you want the brunch feeling without the brunch time consumption. That’s where Pepples comes in. Listen closely… vegan donuts. Yes, it’s a thing! It’s a delicious thing with flavors such as strawberry cream and lavender chamomile. If you’re on the run, these babies will bring you that brunch joy in no time!
Tigerlily
Combining traditional Indian flavors with brunch concepts, this spot has Tikka Masala chicken and waffles and Tandoori shrimp and grits on its menu. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try more creative fusion, this is the place for you.
Homeskillet
Homeskillet is the spot if you have a spouse and/or children and you want to keep it simple but still fun. The menu is pretty straightforward, but if you’re inclined to treat yourself to donuts after your meal, you can get them for the whole family without breaking the bank.
Zocalo Coffeehouse
This is one of those spots that has stood the test of time. We all know that mom and pop shops are getting pushed out by chain everything, and Zocalo’s has been a neighborhood hub for over 20 years. This is the place you go when you’ve moved away, but want a taste of home while visiting.
Café M
If you love brunch the way I do, you’ll be excited to learn that Café M serves it every single day. Seriously, if I want it on a Wednesday, I can slide through and get my fix. Another casual neighborhood spot, this a great place for two buddies to catch up over good food.
Grand Lake Kitchen
The food is good and there are options for everyone, but Grand Lake Kitchen is also the spot to go when you want to see and be seen. Literally, this area is so popular, you’re bound to run into all of your friends from in town and the surrounding cities on the weekend. Try to coordinate, especially if you’re going with friends, as the wait can be a little lengthy.
Tell us some of your favorite brunch spots below!
