I’m not sure what the allure of this meal is. Beyond the fact that it combines two meals (meaning I can eat twice as much, right?), it also combines sweet and savory, coffee and mimosas, and is the perfect excuse to get out of the apartment and meet up with friends on a Sunday morning. I fall asleep Saturday night just dreaming of eggs, waffles, cinnamon rolls and home fries.
I don’t eat out much during the week, so I place great importance on selecting the best and most authentic restaurants for brunch. I’ve spent countless hours scouring the Internet, The Ultimate Food Lover’s Guide to Houston, and asking literally everyone I meet (to an excessive amount) in search of the best brunch spots.
So far, I’d say I’ve made good progress in the way of discovering the freshest and most authentic spots. I eased into my first Sunday in town at Gloria’s in Midtown—it was my first time starting brunch with chips and salsa (you don’t hear me complaining) and won’t be the last time I go for a delicious omelet accompanied by rosemary paprika potatoes. I’ve since wandered just down the street to The Kitchen at the Dunlavy, which boasted a simple yet (not surprisingly) delicious egg white toast with pesto. A word to the wise on The Kitchen…the salads, though seemingly scrumptious, are a bit on the light side, but still with a hefty price. I’d stick to the sandwiches or breakfast dishes—more unique and filling!
When I heard about Max’s Wine Dive, I just couldn’t resist trying it out. Wine and brunch…sounds like my kind of place. Well, I was not disappointed. The Shorty’s breakfast tacos contained melt in your mouth short rib, which paired perfectly with the scrambled eggs and cotija cheese. The decision between the jalapeño-cheddar grits or the home fries was just too difficult, so I opted for both and was so happy I did. I shall be returning.
And speaking of returning…you know you like a restaurant when you go twice just in one weekend…two weeks in a row. And no shame because Adair Kitchen is the kind of place I want to spend every day of my life. If I can’t be found, look there—you’ll find me cozied up in one of their rustic wood booths, a glass of wine in one hand, latte in the other, devouring some fried asparagus…or maybe the Farmer’s Market Skillet…or the Super Foods Bowl…perhaps the balsamic eggs…or you might just find me staring at the menu overwhelmed by the possibilities of what I could order. I’m salivating as I sit here just thinking about it.
So while the weeks might drag on and become a bit monotonous, just the anticipation of exploring the city and nomming on some delicious brunches keeps me going. So here’s to the breakfasts as yet undiscovered—I’ll be sure to find the next place soon!
But here's the list so far...
1. Adair Kitchen
2. Max's Wine Dive
3. The Kitchen at the Dunlavy
4. Gloria's Latin Cuisine
5. Chicon (Austin, TX)
6. Common Bond
Check them out!