Coffees and donuts and avocado, oh my! That’s right, it’s Brunch time. Yes, that is a capital B and yes, it deserves it because Brunch makes, not only the world go ’round, but also allows us to sleep in and still have time to have a good, hearty breakfast.
What has arguably become the trendiest meal of the day, Brunch provides us with both sweet and savory options to satisfy our every hunger need (and our need to get the perfect Instagram shot). It is the perfect way to wake up after a big night out; after all, nothing says ‘I’m hungover’, like a big plate of eggs and bacon. Eat up.
Smith Street Trader
325 Smith St, Fitzroy
Smith Street Trader is our dream come true when it comes to all things Brunch. Set out Scandinavian style, this spot boasts a covered courtyard and heated outdoor dining, perfect for that one friend we all have who has to people-watch. I’m not pointing fingers here but you know who are.
Equipped with acai bowls, chia puddings and the chance to create your own toastie (HELL YEAH), their extensive range of the usual Brunch favourites will have you wanting to order everything on the menu. If only your stomach could commit to eating that much. *sigh*
Lucky Penny
481 Chapel St, South Yarra
Academy trained baristas? Check. A diverse range of Brunch options made from the freshest locally sourced products? Check. Vegan options? Check. A lively and comfortable environment that isn’t going to judge you if you order 2 meals instead of 1? Check.
Lucky Penny really does have it all, from the classic smashed avo to breakfast taco’s and a concoction called ‘Pimp my Plate’ that quite frankly sounds equal parts amazing and terrifying. You can even wash all this food down with a selection of smoothies, pressed juices, or, your very own alcoholic hangover cure. Any cafe that encourages drinking in the morning is a cafe we need to be at. You know where to find us.
Glass Merchants
63 Nelson St, Balaclava
Nestled in the heart of Balaclava, this Brunch spot is everything you’d expect from a restaurant in this eclectic and grungy neighbourhood, with warehouse like decor and wooden booth seating. Relax in a space that has an all-day breakfast menu that features old favourites like ham, cheese and tomato croissants and new favourites such as green scrambled eggs with kale, spinach and chili.
Sound too healthy for you? Try the eggs Benedict that comes with 12 hour braised beef cheek or the ricotta and blueberry hotcakes. We promise you won’t be disappointed.
The Craft & Co
390 Smith St, Collingwood
The Craft & Co, or as it should be more appropriately named, the restaurant that has absolutely everything you could ever want. But I guess that doesn’t quite roll off the tongue. Fine, you can leave it the way it is.
Dig into the egg and bacon roll, slurp your way through 3 bowls of cacao pops (too much?), or tickle your taste buds with the leek and asparagus omelette and prepare for your stomach to feel immensely satisfied as you sip on your spiced chai latte or hot chocolate. We’ll take one of everything, thanks.
Oscar Cooper
160 Greville St, Prahran
Come join the good people at Oscar Cooper where the philosophy is simple; support local supplies, create amazing food and serve delicious coffee. Or, to put it even more simply, supporting our stomachs as we devour everything on the menu, creating an intense love for the food offered that we’ll want to come back every morning and serving our taste buds coffee that will sure to have us addicted to caffeine in no time. We’re onto you.
And trust us when we say you wont be disappointed with the food selection. With options like ‘pistachio crumble & pear chips’ and ‘breakfast burrito’, you’ll be recommending this spot to your nearest and dearest. Guaranteed.
The Grain Store
517 Flinders Ln, Melbourne CBD
Open the barn doors and step inside a restaurant that values the simplistic and natural aspects of food, while providing a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Using fruit and vegetables that are grown and harvested locally ensure that the food served here is of the highest standard in natural produce and will have your stomach, not only thanking you, but begging you to come back.
Try the banana bread, the bacon & smoked mozzarella bagel or the shredded lamb & butternut potato hash. Perhaps all 3? Go on, we’re not judging you. In fact, we’re doing the same thing.
By Kate Gazzard
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