If anything can get me through this winter, it’s going to brunch. Brunch is the one time it’s acceptable to have mimosas and bloody marys before noon on a Sunday. And for those of us who love to sleep in, we can can still wake up in time for our favorite weekend meal.
But where did brunch come from? Were breakfast and lunch not enough for us hungry people? Well, as is the case with many other food stories, historians can’t seem to agree on where or how it originated. Three of the most popular theories are: It was rooted in England’s hunt breakfasts of lush, endless courses; it derived from Catholics fasting before Mass, coming together for a big Sunday meal afterward; it started in New York City, considering the rich history of brunch items that were created there. But no matter where brunch comes from, I’m just happy it’s here.
Brunch is a great meal to connect with friends, come out of hibernation, and relax while having a great meal off-season. Wondering where you can congregate during these winter months? Check out our list of trusted brunch spots on-Island.
Park Corner Bistro in Oak Bluffs: Make your way to this Sunday brunch haunt, and start your meal with a freshly squeezed blood orange mimosa. People rave about almost everything on their menu. (Serving from 11 am – 2:30 pm)
Water Street at Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown: This is probably the only spot serving brunch 52 Sundays a year on the Vineyard; it’s a seasonally inspired brunch with everything from cheese platters to made-to-order omelets, prime rib, and more. (Serving from 10:30 am – 2:00 pm)
Lucky Hank’s in Edgartown: Back from a short winter break, they offer a variety of breakfast items like local cod cakes and eggs, crepes, and eggs Benedict, among other tasty offerings. (Serving from 8 am – 2:30 pm)
Black Dog Tavern in Vineyard Haven: The latest brunch you could have if you’re still in bed at 3 pm (which is a separate story in itself). Classics like their Fishcake Supreme — poached eggs on a fish cake with Black Dog marinara — are bound to get you out of bed earlier! (Serving from 7:00 am – 4:00 pm; lunch items start at 11 am)
Little House Cafe in Vineyard Haven: This is the brunch for those of you too busy on Sunday morning: They serve it on Saturdays! Definitely the place to go for delicious pancakes served with Northern Lights Farm maple syrup, making it a sweet start to your weekend. (Saturday brunch served from 7:30 am – 11 am; restaurant reopens March 2)
Scottish Bakehouse in West Tisbury: If a burger for brunch is your thing, you can’t afford to miss out on “The Local,” featuring local farm-raised beef. Their breakfast burrito is also a must-try; order it with linguiça and sriracha if you like it hot. There’s not much seating in the winter months, but take it to go and you’ll be glad you did. (Serving 6:30 am – 5:30 pm)
7aFoods in West Tisbury: More of an early Sunday-morning breakfast option. Head up-Island for one of their famously delicious egg sandwiches on a homemade biscuit. It’s worth the drive, I promise. (Serving from 7 am – 11 am; restaurant reopens March 10)
State Road restaurant in West Tisbury: Their famous brunch pulls out all the stops. There are ricotta pancakes with blueberries, or their heavenly brioche French toast with maple-glazed apples, if you want something sweet. If savory is your thing, their Sunday hash changes weekly, but is consistently delicious. (Serving from 8 am – 2 pm; restaurant reopens at the end of March)
There you have it — two months of brunch options to get you through the rest of the off-season. It’s a great way to start a Sunday for anyone, unless you’re a chef — because after a busy Saturday night, no chef wants to get up early to create a lavish meal for several hours. So don’t be too fussy at brunch, and be ever so grateful for that bottomless cup of coffee.
