Brunch has long been used as a great excuse, and necessity, for weekenders to delve into stacks of pancakes, and toast to previous nights out with mimosas and Bloody Marys. The mentality of “working for the weekend” puts an even greater emphasis on getting the most out of time spent away from the office sans meetings and paperwork. These days, clubs and restaurants in New York City are branching out from their usual late night party scene and encouraging partygoers to return for round two. Only this time, the party starts at 12 pm.
For Fairfield County, the brunch scene is equally celebrated as more and more of your favorite restaurants are now offering an extensive and unique menu for Sunday and even Saturday mornings! From nutella stuffed croissants to lobster rolls and Oysters Rockefeller brunch there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to consume as many carbs as you can, or you’re planning your first meeting with the new in-laws these brunch menus appeal to a diverse and hungry crowd.
Bohemian Rhapsody
Cafe Lola (Fairfield)
This romantic french restaurant caters to the starving artist and European aficionado. The "love child" of owners Henri and Ivanina Donneaux, Cafe Lola encourages their guest to celebrate life everyday and stop into their restaurant "just as you are-dressed up or not." As extensive as their lunch and dinner menus, Cafe Lola provides all the necessary brunch options only with a creative and sophisticated twist. Highlights include the buttered brioche stuffed with nutella ($4) or the "Eloise at the Plaza" which is served as a stack of pancakes with strawberry cream cheese sauce. ($10) For those visitors who are looking for something heartier, try "Henris' Mom's French Toast" which is served as large pieces of french toast cooked in bacon fat and topped with a fried egg and a side of bacon. ($12) Brunchers who are brave enough to try this are advised on the menu to approach with caution, as it is highly addictive.
Dark & Delicious
The Gingerman (Greenwich)
The dark and cozy interior of the Gingerman in Greenwich makes it the perfect brunch spot for those who are suffering from the night before and continue to wear their sunglasses long after walking into the restaurant. Known as a perfect spot in Greenwich for a juicy burger and cold beer, The Gingerman continues to provide quality and delicious food for the Sunday morning crowd. The brunch menu serves an electic spread providing everything from a Maine lump crab and avocado stack served with pickled red onions and a tomato and mustard seed vinaigrette ($13.95) to the huevos rancheros which are eggs over easy on crispy corn tortillas, avocado, Monterey Jack Cheese and our fire roasted tomato salsa ($12.95) Of course, visitors are encouraged to try their one or a few of their spicy bloody mary, mimosa or bellini specialities with their meal.
Colorfully Comfortable
Gates (New Canaan)
If you're looking for a more casual brunch experience, Gates is the perfect location to try. Rich in history, this New Canaan gem has long (thirty years!) been known for its delicious food and bright murals by artist Janet Picard which creates a positive and vibrant atmosphere for diners. The unique element to Gate's brunch menu is illustrated through the array of options available. From eggs benedict ($10.95) to traditional bolognese ($11.95) to a thai chicken and organic arugula tossed in a sesame dressing with avocado, oranges, cucumbers, carrots, celery and toasted almonds topped with pineapple mango salsa ($11.95) Gates offers something for everyone at any hour of the day.
Outdoor Dining
Tiernans (Stamford)
Known for it's outdoor seating, Tiernans serves as the perfect brunch location for families, especially with young children. The brunch menu offers every child's ideal breakfast with a stack of buttery chocolate chip or blueberry pancakes. ($5.95) In addition, the menu includes crepes filled with blueberry, apple cinnamon and cheese. ($6.95) If your child is especially picky, there is a children's menu with all the classics such as grilled cheese, chicken tenders and of course Mickey Mouse shaped pancakes! Why travel to Disney World when you have Tiernan's right around the corner?
The Perfect Mix of Breakfast and Lunch
The Red Barn (Westport)
Beautifully restored in 1933, this unique styled restaurant has been a Westport landmark for over 50 years. The perfect location for larger parties, The Red Barn caters to those clients who crave more options for breakfast and lunch. If you stop in on Saturday, prepare yourself for a menu centralized around seafood as clams and oysters on the half shell ($10) and Escargot Scampi style ($8) are a house favorite. On Sunday, Brunch is served as buffet style during two seatings at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. Adults eat for $24.95 and children under 12 eat for $13.95 or under 6 for $7.95. The buffet includes a carving station and spread of everything from bagels, eggs to salads and of course dessert. The best part? Sunday brunch comes with a complimentary cocktail and unlimited champagne! Talk about a great way to start off your day!