Is there a topic (besides politics) that Seattleites have stronger opinions on than where you will enjoy the best brunch in town? I think not.
There’s something gravitational about a favorite neighborhood brunch spot. One’s loyalty to their weekend wake-up call is fierce! During the years I lived on Seattle’s Phinney Ridge, I couldn’t have fathomed a Saturday morning without the horiatiki omelette at Georgia’s Greek Cafe. When I lived in Ballard, brunch meant a pain au chocolat at Cafe Besalu.
Maybe you’re a Seattleite looking for a new brunch spot, or just want a great recommendation for your next visit to the emerald city. I recently asked six local brunch experts for their faves, and I can’t wait to try all of their suggestions. You should, too.
Burgundian Tavern
2253 N 56th Street, (206) 420-8943, website
Loved by: Crai Bower, travel writer at Flowing Stream Writing. “My partner and I love the Burgundian in Green Lake. Awesome Bloody Marys and a perfect menu.”
Weekend Brunch: open at 10am
Try: The waffles and fried chicken with a side of bourbon maple syrup gets raves. This is one of the few restaurants in Seattle with poutine on the menu, a signature dish of fries, gravy and cheese curds popular in Canada. Wash it down with a stout and your weekend is off to a great start.
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Oddfellows Cafe
1525 10th Avenue, (206) 325-0807, website
Weekend Brunch: 9am – 3pm
Loved by: Geraldine DeRuiter of The Everywhereist. “I’m a big fan of Oddfellows. Great biscuits, eggs, bacon, and beignets.”
Try: Coffee of course, and some fluffy, buttery biscuits topped with freezer jam. For a heartier breakfast order the brioche french toast with marscapone and seasonal fruit. Order at the counter, then take a seat and wait for your breakfast.
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Ma‘ono
4437 California Ave SW, (206) 935.1075, website
Loved by: Sheri Doyle, travel planner at Pacific Northwest Journeys. “They make fantastic eggs benedict made with a Dahlia Bakery english muffin. Also try their chicken & french toast (a variation on chicken & waffles).”
Weekend Brunch: 10am to 2pm
Of Note: Ma‘ono means “flavor” and the menu here is deeply inspired by the flavors of Hawai, drawing from Chef Mark Fuller’s island heritage. In addition to Sheri’s trusted suggestions, the menu featured brunch items like Corned Beef Hash and Ox Tail Soup.
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Luna Park Cafe
2918 Southwest Avalon Way, (206) 935-7250, website
Loved by: Pam Mandel, writer at Nerd’s Eye View. “I love going to Luna Park. It’s just your typical diner chow, but I love hanging out there. It’s a cool place to be.”
Weekend Brunch: open at 7am
Of Note: How about a huge omelette with a side of 1960s jukebox hits? Luna Park is a quirky diner that caters to quirky West Seattleites, and we love them for it. They serve large, hearty breakfasts all day, so you won’t leave hungry, especially if you order one of their delicious milkshakes with your meal.
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Lola
2000 4th Ave, (206) 441-1430, website
Loved by: Mary-Alice Pomputius, writer at Dog Jaunt. “Brunch, more often than not, is at Lola. Delicious, especially the smashed garlic-fried potatoes, and, dear God, the made-to-order tiny doughnuts with jam and vanilla mascarpone — served in a small paper bag so you can shake the sugar coating over them one last time.”
Weekend Brunch: open at 7am
Of Note: Lola is one of the restaurants owned by chef Tom Douglas, and one of only a few great downtown restaurants open in the early morning on weekends.
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Bravehorse Tavern
310 Terry Avenue North, (206) 971-0717, website
Loved by: Courtney Johnston von Nieda of Our Seattle. “Bravehorse for the smoked brisket hash. Crispy potatoes and brisket, perfectly spicy picked peppers and yellow runny eggs on top. Perfectly delicious even when not hungover.”
Weekend Brunch: not Saturdays, opens Sundays at 10am. 21+ only.
One Response
The Saimin at Ma’ono is amazing. Also, the brunch at Jak’s is great, especially if you make it in for the brunch happy hour (you heard me right) where the deals are (almost) better than the food.