You Had Me At Brunch
Ah, brunch – the meal that's too late for breakfast, too early for lunch, and yet somehow manages to be the best part of the day. It's the meal where it's perfectly acceptable to have a mimosa before noon, and where it's socially required to Gram your food before taking a single bite. It's the meal where eggs are transformed into eggs Benedict, avocado toast becomes a work of art, and pancakes are stacked so high you need a ladder to reach the top. So grab your favourite people, your stretchy pants and your sunglasses (because Spring), and let's dive into the world of top brunch spots around the country. I’ve even added some of your very own faves, as submitted to me via social media. Ready, Eggy, Go!
Let's start with the granddaddy of English brunch spots, The Wolseley. If you're looking for a brunch spot that's elegant and sophisticated, The Wolseley is the perfect choice. This grand European-style café is housed in a former car showroom and serves up classic brunch dishes like eggs Benedict and the flakiest croissants. And with its marble columns and Art Deco design, you'll feel like you're brunching in a bygone era.
If you're looking for a breakfast spot that's hip, trendy, and has a quirky vibe, The Breakfast Club is the place for you. With locations nationwide, this chain of restaurants serves up classic brunch fare with a twist. Try their "Full Monty" breakfast, which includes everything from eggs and bacon to black pudding and hash browns. And it’d be rude not to snap a selfie in their iconic phone booth…
Transport yourself to Mumbai with a visit to Dishoom, a popular brunch spot that serves up Indian-inspired dishes. From spicy scrambled eggs to chicken tikka rolls, the menu is packed with flavour. And don't forget to order a cup of their famous chai tea to wash it all down.
For a brunch experience that's truly unique, head to Sketch in Mayfair. This restaurant is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food, with its pastel pink walls, plush velvet chairs, and quirky artwork. But the food is just as impressive, with dishes like smoked salmon and scrambled eggs… served on a silver platter no less.
For a brunch spot that's as Instagrammable as it is delicious, head to Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings in Clerkenwell. This beautifully designed restaurant features greenery aplenty, with plants hanging from the ceiling and lining the walls. And the food is just as impressive, with dishes like smoked haddock kedgeree and French toast with bacon and maple syrup.
If you're looking for a traditional English brunch in a charming setting, look no further than The Apple Tree in Bath. Housed in a 200-year-old building, this pub serves up classic dishes like full English breakfasts, kedgeree, and bubble and squeak. And with its cosy, welcoming atmosphere, you'll feel right at home.
For those with a sweet tooth, The Pudding Pantry in Nottingham is a brunch spot you won't want to miss. This cute café specialises in all things sweet, with dishes like French toast, waffles, and pancakes. And if you're feeling extra indulgent, go for the "Pudding Breakfast" – a plate piled high with pancakes, bacon, sausage, and maple syrup. Waiter
Brunch at Bistrotheque is like a symphony of flavours orchestrated by the brunch maestros in the kitchen. From the perfectly poached eggs to the crispy bacon and avocado on toast, every bite is a harmonious blend of savoury goodness. And the ambiance? It's chic enough to make even the most fashionable foodies of East Londoners feel at home. Don’t hold back, order that second (or third) mimosa and enjoy the brunch-y goodness. Bistrotheque certainly knows how to brunch like a boss!
If you're in the mood for a hearty brunch, head to The Coal Shed in London Bridge. This restaurant is known for its delicious steak and seafood dishes, but their brunch menu is equally impressive. Try their signature steak and eggs, or their avocado and crab toast with chili and lime.
For a plant-based brunch that's a little bit different, check out The Vurger Co. This vegan fast-food joint serves up delicious breakfast burgers and wraps, as well as a range of smoothies and juices. And with its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, The Vurger Co is a great spot for a quick brunch that is absolutely delish.
With locations in Soho and Stoke Newington, The Good Egg is a popular brunch spot that serves up Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. Try their shakshuka, which comes with a choice of toppings like merguez sausage or smoked aubergine, or their delicious babka French toast.
For a brunch spot that's a lil fancier, head to The Drop in Covent Garden. This wine bar and restaurant serves up delicious brunch dishes like crab cakes with avocado salsa and scrambled eggs with truffle butter. And with its extensive wine list, The Drop is the perfect spot for a boozy brunch with friends. Sign me up.
Another Heart to Feed in Manchester is an Aussie-inspired brunch spot that will steal your heart – and your taste buds. From the fluffy pancakes to the perfectly poached eggs, every dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. And their menu offers a range of unique options that are sure to impress, like the baked eggs with chorizo and the matcha French toast. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with a rustic decor that makes it the perfect spot for a lazy weekend brunch. And let's not forget about the coffee – their baristas are skilled in the art of latte art, creating beautiful designs that almost look too good to drink. So if you're looking for a brunch spot that will warm your heart and fill your belly, head to Another Heart to Feed in Manchester – and be prepared to fall in love.
Brunch at the Crafty Egg in Bristol? More like a culinary adventure in a land of egg-straordinary flavors. You can scramble, poach, or fry your eggs any way you like, and they even have eggs-tremely creative dishes like the "Egg-ssanwich" and the "Egg-straordinary Benedict." And let's not forget about the hash browns, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they're like little nuggets of breakfast gold. But beware, the portions are so big you might need to take a break halfway through and have a little egg-nap. So gather your egg-cited friends and head to the Crafty Egg for a brunch that will crack you up and leave you with egg on your face - in a good way!
If you find yourself lost in the lanes of Brighton, fear not, because there's a breakfast spot that's worth getting lost for. Lost in the Lanes offers a breakfast that's a feast for the senses, with fresh and locally sourced ingredients that pack a punch of flavour. From the fluffy pancakes to the crispy bacon and perfectly cooked eggs, every bite is a delicious journey into breakfast bliss. And don't forget to try their famous coffee, roasted to perfection and served with just the right amount of frothy milk. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, with a rustic decor that will make you feel right at home. So if you're looking for a breakfast that will make you feel found, head to Lost in the Lanes – and don't worry, you won't want to be found anytime soon.
Wanna live a little? Look no further than YOLO Townhouse in Newcastle. From the classic full English breakfast to the oldie-but-goodie avocado toast, they've got all the breakfast bases covered. And their brunch game is on point too, with dishes like the breakfast burrito and the waffle stack that are as photogenic as they are delicious. Plus, their bottomless brunch option is a must-try for anyone looking to let loose and indulge. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, with a trendy industrial decor that makes it the perfect spot for a lazy weekend brunch with friends. So what are you waiting for? Head to YOLO Townhouse for a breakfast or brunch that's anything but basic.
How can I not include Café Benny? One of my favourite brunch spots that takes the art of breakfast to a whole new level. Their menu is a delightful fusion of classic dishes with a contemporary twist. From their famous eggs Benedict to their Green Shakshuka, every dish is made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. But what really sets Cafe Benedict apart is their attention to detail. From the perfectly roasted coffee to the homemade jams, everything is crafted in-house with care and expertise. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a charming decor that will make you feel right at home.
Sticking to my home turf in Teddington, Marez Brasserie is worth a thousand mentions. This charming brunch spot that offers a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Their menu is a tantalizing array of classic brunch dishes with a unique twist, made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. The menu also features gluten-free and plant-based sections so even your most picky pal will be happy. Try the Spicy Ciabatta with one (or more) of their 15 choices of sides.
In search of the best Bloody Mary in London? Head straight to Gordon Bennett in the leafy neighbourhood of Surbiton. From epic sausage sandwiches to a Full English the size of your head, this KT6 institution certainly lives up to its reputation. Service is warm and friendly, and dogs are welcomed with open arms. Definitely make sure to order and extra side of hashbrowns. They WILL get nicked off your plate and you WILL be desperately unhappy about it.
Two Boys Brew in Dublin is a brunch spot that is a must-visit for any foodie in the city. Their menu is a perfect balance of classic brunch favourites and innovative dishes, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From the fluffy pancakes to the shakshuka, every dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. And their coffee? It's some of the best in the city, roasted in-house and served with a smile. The atmosphere is chic and modern, with a bright and airy interior that will make you want to stay all day. And if you're in the mood for something a little stronger than coffee, their cocktail menu is not to be missed.
And then some more favourites, as submitted by you lovely lot:
My fave is Caravan in Kings Cross. It has a great outdoor space to sit and people-watch around Granary Square if the sun is shining, or a comfortable inside area if not. Get the baked eggs with merguez sausage and a Bloody Mary.
Submitted by Jess @styladelica
My favourite brunch spot is Woofkraft in Cheltenham. Their hash browns are like nothing you’ve ever eaten. Thinly sliced potatoes that they bake, then slice up into rectangles before they then fry them (yes, I asked how they made them, they’re that good!). It doesn’t matter what I order off the menu (usually the avo and poached eggs on sourdough) I always have a side of a hash brown. Just incredible!
Submitted by Stephanie @stephanieayling
There is only one place to go in Glasgow and you need to come up just to try it, it's that good. Their homemade pancakes are to-die-for… never mind the Stornoway stack, their daily specials, dog-friendly vibes and gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. It ticks all boxes especially when the hubby and I can fit in a wee treat when the kids are at school. Honestly jump on the next plane or train… you won’t be disappointed!
Submitted by Laura @lauramnocker
Without a shadow of a doubt, I would recommend Homeground Coffee and Kitchen in Windermere. The best food I have ever had, and they change the menu seasonally as well… just incredible food and wonderful coffee and amazing cakes!
Submitted by Andrea @andsh79
Oeuf in Hove do amazing brunch and are creators of the trademarked Frumpet which are French toast crumpets. Absolutely divine! The decor, the food and the location make it so amazing. You are five minutes’ walk from the seafront to stroll off the food you’ve just devoured! I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been, but I take everyone there and they love it. This weekend we tried the loaded rosti bites and now there will always need to be a bowl of these on the table at every visit!
Submitted by Mel @mellymoogram
Gro is located in Irvine, North Ayrshire Scotland and another branch in Ayr South Ayrshire Scotland. They do THE most amazing, themed pancakes and massive homemade cakes. All ingredients are local and free-range, and the locations are lovely too.
Submitted by Stephanie @stephaniehamilton08
The Boatyard at Cullercoats, North Shields is a super dog-friendly cafe that is 20m from the beach, they serve loads of delicious breakfast and brunch such as pancakes and eggs Benedict and make the best ultimate hot chocolates around, perfect for warming up after a cold walk on the beach. They are also super supportive of the local community and put on a charity Christmas day meal for local people on their own which you could donate towards… they are a truly lovely bunch!
Submitted by Sophie @soph189
My favourite brunch spot is Federal Cafe Bar which is based in Manchester. They are the ultimate for brunch if coming to Manchester and so reasonably priced for the quality. The staff are lovely. Sometimes you have to be prepared to queue but in the rain they provide umbrellas and in the cold the provide hot chocolates. A proper, good business. They do the best eggs Benedict, awesome gluten free bread and fantastic French toast. They have three premises in central Manchester and also a coffee cart in Altrincham.
Submitted by Gemma @oh_just_because
And there you have it – some of the best and most exciting brunch spots in London and beyond. Whether you're a vegan, a steak-lover, or somewhere in between, there's a brunch spot for everyone. So grab your friends, book a table, and get ready to indulge in some delicious food, wake-me-up coffee… and superb cocktails, obvs.
Because when life happens, brunch helps.
Love,
Lisa