Most weekends, we will get the magical call to brunch from our family and friends…but do you know where this casual meal catchup originated from?
Many believe the often boozy brunch has its roots in England’s hunt breakfasts – lavish multi-course meals that featured a smorgasbord of everything from chicken livers, to bacon, fresh fruit and sweets.
Others believe the practice is derived from Catholics fasting before mass and then sitting down to a large midday meal…whatever you believe, the weekend brunch is a staple on most of our calendars.
Here are four spots to get your Sunday brunchful:
Head along Bayview Road to find some of Belgrave’s favourite breaky dishes on the menu at Bellifull of Bliss café. On balmy days sit alfresco and people watch under market umbrellas while sipping a brew of choice; while indoors rocks a rustic vibe of recycled timber, tiles and potted greenery, ideal for lingering over a leisurely brunch.
Sweet tooths rejoice over plates of pancakes, whipped cream, seasonal berries and icing sugar; while those with a savoury bent, opt for chilli scrambled eggs, Parmesan, garlic, spinach and cherry tomatoes, on sourdough toast.
Find hidden gem foodie café Fiveways Espresso on Sherwood Road in Sherwood for all-day fare with flair and coffee to match. A glass frontage makes for a light-filled café with polished concrete floors, a blackboard boasting daily specials and recycled timber while trailing greenery adds an oasis-like vibe.
Settle into a space created for guests to chill out and relax as you ponder a menu offering breaky plates like the Fiveway Stack – spinach, bacon, halloumi, potato hash, avocado, poached eggs, Hollandaise and a drizzle of balsamic reduction, on sourdough toast.
Those craving a seriously good cup of coffee in Cessnock head down Cooper Street to find Greg’s Espresso Bar. This locally-loved coffee shop serves up a caffeine hit of Fish River Roasters brew along with a range of delicious toasties, brownies and treats, best enjoyed under market umbrellas alfresco on balmy days, or head indoors to join the lively buzz of conversation.
For a brunch to remember, devour a Reuben toastie with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Russian dressing and pickles, or a classic bacon and egg roll with housemade relish.
Bringing a bite of colour to Bronte, head to The Coop on Bronte Road for simple fare beautifully made. You can’t get much closer to the golden sands of the beach than this café, making it an ideal spot for a weekend brunch in between swimming and surfing, or a ‘grammable’ meal with friends.
Nothing screams Sunday brunch more than corn fritters, with a poached egg, avocado, greens, bacon and house relish, or stacks on stacks – eggs, avocado, mushrooms, roasted tomato, hummus and cured salmon, with sourdough.
For more brunch options near you, click here.
