As institutions go, Sunday brunch is almost like a weekly Thanksgiving. A font of friendship, relaxation and food for body and soul. San Diego offers the discerning Sunday brunch aficionado many fine venues to get their weekly late breakfast fix in style and comfort.
El Bizcocho – Rancho Bernado Inn
Recently rated the Critic’s Choice “Best of the Best” by San Diego Magazine and voted San Diego’s highest rated restaurant by the Zagat Survey, El Bizcocho is a sure bet. Featuring a Bloody Mary bar graced by an international who’s who of Vodkas, fresh orange juice and endless Champagne, the gourmet buffet is a tribute to sumptuous dining. With eight stations serving El Bizcocho signature dishes such as Stone Crab claws and legs, Jamaican Jerk spiced meat, leg of lamb, assorted smoked fish and a large variety of salads and deserts, brunch will certainly not be mundane. Brunch is served between 10 and 2 pm and costs $39.95.
Suite & Tender, Se Hotel
Strictly speaking, Suite & Tender shouldn’t feature in a San Diego Sunday brunch line up as they don’t serve Sunday brunch any more. However, their excellent Saturday brunch earns them admission. The breakfast menu offers delectable goodies like banana walnut pancakes, oyster shooters, pizzas, waffles, build-your-own eggs Benedict and for the stout of heart, buttermilk biscuits and red-eye sausage gravy. Bottomless Bellini’s and Mimosas compliment the classy decor and warm, friendly ambiance. Brunch served from 8 – 2:30 pm.
Humphreys by the Bay – Shelter Island
The recently remodeled Humphreys is one of San Diego’s better Sunday brunch choices. The weekend brunch menu sports a staunch selection of old favorites such as lamb chops, steamed mussels and omelets. Carving and pasta stations offer the hands on enthusiast a choice of brunch specials and the fine dining is complimented by stunning views of the marina. Live Jazz, sponsored by local jazz station KIFM, rounds off a memorable Sunday brunch. Brunch runs from 10 – 2 pm and comes in at $39, 95 including Champagne.
Maryjanes Coffee Shop – Hard Rock Hotel
Sunday Brunch kicks off a little early at MJ’s, 6:30am to be precise. Despite an early start, San Diego brunch hunters will find the food is excellent and includes brunch staples such as flapjacks and omelets. For the seriously hungry or hung over a selection of hearty “morning after” fare including soft tacos, tuna melts and cheeseburgers is available. Tired, partied out troops can build a custom Bloody Mary while a live DJ supplies the entertainment.
House of Blues – Downtown San Diego
Gospel brunch at San Diego’s House of Blues is reason to rejoice. Menu stand-outs like biscuits and sausage, fresh fruit, fried chicken, macaroni cheese, and cheese grits are a fitting accompaniment to a superb Cajun Buffet. Tickets are available at $40.00 for adults and $18.50 for children through House of Blues box office. Seating starts at 11am.
Whether you are just rounding of the Saturday night party circuit or out for a family get together, brunch in San Diego is a tradition worth following. With great venues, better food and the backdrop of California’s finest, you just can’t lose.
