Philadelphia, often referred to as the City of Brotherly Love, is not only rich in history and culture but also a haven for food lovers. One of the best ways to experience the city’s culinary delights is through its vibrant brunch scene.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor eager to indulge in a quintessential Philadelphia experience, this comprehensive guide to Philly’s best brunch spots will help you start your day right.
The Dutch: A Taste of Pennsylvania Dutch Cuisine
Location: 1527 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
How to Get There: Located in the Pennsport neighborhood, The Dutch is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The nearest bus stop is at 4th St & Tasker St, served by routes 29 and 64.
Overview: The Dutch offers a unique brunch experience with a menu that blends Pennsylvania Dutch flavors with contemporary twists. The cozy and casual atmosphere is perfect for a laid-back brunch outing.
Menu Highlights:
– Dutch Baby Pancake: A light and airy oven-baked pancake served with seasonal fruit and whipped cream.
– Scrapple: A traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dish made from pork scraps and cornmeal, fried to perfection and served with eggs and toast.
– Bitterballen: A Dutch snack of deep-fried meatballs, crispy on the outside and tender inside, perfect for sharing.
Prices: Expect to spend around $15-$20 per person, making it an affordable option for a hearty brunch.
Personal Experience: The Dutch is a delightful blend of comfort and novelty. The Dutch Baby Pancake is a must-try, with its light texture and delicious toppings. The friendly staff and homey decor make you feel right at home.
Café La Maude: A French-Lebanese Fusion Delight
Location: 816 N 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
How to Get There: Located in the Northern Liberties neighborhood, Café La Maude is accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearest subway station is Spring Garden, served by the Market-Frankford Line.
Overview: Café La Maude offers a unique fusion of French and Lebanese cuisines, creating a brunch experience that is both exotic and familiar. The chic and stylish interior adds to the charm of this popular brunch spot.
Menu Highlights:
– Lamb Shakshuka: Spiced lamb in a rich tomato sauce with poached eggs, served with warm pita bread.
– Croissant French Toast: A decadent take on French toast, made with buttery croissants and topped with fresh berries and maple syrup.
– Labneh and Zaatar Flatbread: A Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring creamy labneh, zaatar spices, and fresh vegetables on a crispy flatbread.
Prices: Brunch dishes range from $15-$25, reflecting the high-quality ingredients and unique flavors.
Personal Experience: Café La Maude is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The Lamb Shakshuka is richly flavorful and perfectly spiced, while the Croissant French Toast offers a sweet, indulgent treat. The attentive service and elegant ambiance enhance the overall dining experience.
Green Eggs Café: Sustainable Brunching
Location: 212 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107 (among several other locations)
How to Get There: The Midtown Village location is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearest subway station is Walnut-Locust, served by the Broad Street Line.
Overview: Green Eggs Café is known for its commitment to sustainability and farm-to-table dining. The café offers generous portions of creative brunch dishes in a casual, eco-friendly setting.
Menu Highlights:
– Crab Benedict: Poached eggs and fresh crab meat on an English muffin, topped with hollandaise sauce and served with home fries.
– Red Velvet Pancakes: Fluffy red velvet pancakes layered with mascarpone cheese and topped with fresh berries and whipped cream.
– Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: A hearty and spicy dish featuring buffalo chicken and creamy mac and cheese, perfect for brunch with a twist.
Prices: Most brunch dishes are priced between $10-$20, offering great value for the quality and portion size.
Personal Experience: Green Eggs Café delivers on both taste and sustainability. The Crab Benedict is a standout, with fresh and flavorful ingredients, while the Red Velvet Pancakes provide a delightful sweet treat. The café’s commitment to eco-friendly practices is evident in everything from the menu to the decor.
Sabrina’s Café: A Cozy Neighborhood Favorite
Location: 910 Christian St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (among several other locations)
How to Get There: The Bella Vista location is accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearest bus stop is 9th St & Christian St, served by route 47.
Overview: Sabrina’s Café is a beloved brunch spot known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty portions. The eclectic menu features a mix of classic and innovative dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Menu Highlights:
– Stuffed Challah French Toast: Thick slices of challah bread stuffed with seasonal fruit and cream cheese, topped with powdered sugar and syrup.
– Eggs Benedict: Traditional eggs benedict with a choice of smoked salmon, ham, or avocado, served with home fries.
– Huevos Rancheros: A flavorful Mexican-inspired dish with eggs, black beans, salsa, and tortillas, topped with cheese and avocado.
Prices: Brunch dishes range from $10-$20, making Sabrina’s Café an affordable option for a satisfying meal.
Personal Experience: Sabrina’s Café feels like a home away from home. The Stuffed Challah French Toast is both indulgent and comforting, while the Huevos Rancheros offers a burst of vibrant flavors. The welcoming staff and cozy ambiance make it a perfect spot for a relaxed brunch.
Parc: French Bistro Brunching
Location: 227 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
How to Get There: Parc is located in the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, easily accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearest subway station is 15th-16th & Locust, served by the Broad Street Line.
Overview: Parc offers a quintessential French bistro experience, right in the heart of Philadelphia. The elegant decor and prime location overlooking Rittenhouse Square make it a popular choice for brunch.
Menu Highlights:
– Quiche Lorraine: A classic French quiche with bacon, onions, and Gruyère cheese, served with a fresh green salad.
– Croque Madame: A traditional French sandwich with ham, Gruyère cheese, and a fried egg, served with pommes frites.
– Pain Perdu: French toast made with brioche bread, served with seasonal fruit and maple syrup.
Prices: Expect to spend around $20-$30 per person for a sophisticated brunch experience.
Personal Experience: Parc transports you to a Parisian café with its authentic French cuisine and charming ambiance. The Quiche Lorraine is perfectly baked and flavorful, while the Pain Perdu offers a sweet and satisfying start to the day. The outdoor seating area provides a lovely view of Rittenhouse Square, making it an ideal spot for people-watching.
Honey’s Sit ‘N Eat: Southern Comfort in the City
Location: 2101 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146
How to Get There: Honey’s Sit ‘N Eat is located in the Graduate Hospital neighborhood, accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearest bus stop is 21st St & South St, served by routes 7 and 40.
Overview: Honey’s Sit ‘N Eat combines Southern comfort food with a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The menu features a mix of traditional Southern dishes and modern twists, ensuring a memorable brunch experience.
Menu Highlights:
– Chicken and Waffles: Crispy fried chicken served with fluffy waffles and maple syrup.
– Biscuits and Gravy: Homemade biscuits smothered in rich sausage gravy, served with eggs and home fries.
– Shrimp and Grits: A Southern classic featuring sautéed shrimp in a flavorful sauce over creamy grits.
Prices: Brunch dishes range from $10-$20, offering generous portions and great value.
Personal Experience: Honey’s Sit ‘N Eat delivers on comfort and flavor. The Chicken and Waffles are a perfect blend of savory and sweet, while the Biscuits and Gravy offer a hearty and satisfying start to the day. The casual, laid-back atmosphere makes it a great spot for families and groups.
Talula’s Garden: Farm-to-Table Brunch Bliss
Location: 210 W Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106
How to Get There: Talula’s Garden is located near Washington Square Park, accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearest subway station is 8th Street, served by the Market-Frankford Line and the Broad-Ridge Spur.
Overview: Talula’s Garden offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The charming garden setting and innovative menu make it a standout choice for brunch.
Menu Highlights:
– Garden Omelette: A light and fluffy omelette filled with seasonal vegetables and local cheese, served with mixed greens and toast.
– Lemon Ricotta Pancakes: Soft and tangy pancakes topped with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
– Smoked Salmon Tartine: Smoked salmon served on toasted sourdough with cream cheese, capers, and red onions.
Prices: Brunch dishes range from $15-$25, reflecting the high-quality ingredients and culinary creativity.
Personal Experience: Talula’s Garden offers a delightful and serene brunch experience. The Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a standout, with their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The garden setting provides a tranquil escape from the city bustle, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely brunch.
The Love: Cozy and Contemporary Brunching
Location: 130 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
How to Get There: The Love is located near Rittenhouse Square, accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearest subway station is 15th-16th & Locust, served by the Broad Street Line.
Overview: The Love offers a cozy and contemporary brunch experience with a menu that focuses on comfort food with a modern twist. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed brunch.
Menu Highlights:
– Avocado Toast: Smashed avocado on multigrain toast, topped with poached eggs, radishes, and microgreens.
– Chicken and Biscuits: Crispy fried chicken served with homemade biscuits and sausage gravy.
– French Toast Casserole: A rich and decadent dish featuring layers of French toast, topped with caramelized bananas and maple syrup.
Prices: Brunch dishes range from $15-$25, offering great value for the quality and portion size.
Personal Experience: The Love delivers on both comfort and creativity. The Avocado Toast is fresh and flavorful, while the Chicken and Biscuits provide a hearty and satisfying meal. The cozy decor and friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for brunch with friends or family.
Café Lift: Industrial Chic Brunch Spot
Location: 428 N 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
How to Get There: Café Lift is located in the Callowhill neighborhood, accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearest bus stop is 13th St & Buttonwood St, served by route 23.
Overview: Café Lift offers a trendy, industrial chic setting with a menu that focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The creative and eclectic dishes make it a popular choice for brunch.
Menu Highlights:
– Cannoli French Toast: Thick slices of French toast stuffed with cannoli cream and topped with chocolate chips and powdered sugar.
– Breakfast Tacos: Soft tortillas filled with scrambled eggs, chorizo, avocado, and salsa, served with home fries.
– Italian Eggs Benedict: Poached eggs on toasted ciabatta with prosciutto, arugula, and hollandaise sauce, served with home fries.
Prices: Brunch dishes range from $10-$20, offering great value for the quality and portion size.
Personal Experience: Café Lift combines a cool, industrial vibe with delicious and inventive brunch dishes. The Cannoli French Toast is a sweet and indulgent treat, while the Breakfast Tacos offer a flavorful and satisfying meal. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for a relaxed brunch.
High Street on Market: Artisan Brunching
Location: 308 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
How to Get There: High Street on Market is located in the Old City neighborhood, accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearest subway station is 2nd Street, served by the Market-Frankford Line.
Overview: High Street on Market offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on artisan breads and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The rustic and cozy setting adds to the charm of this popular brunch spot.
Menu Highlights:
– Breakfast Sandwich: House-made English muffin with scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, and bacon or sausage, served with a side salad.
– Mushroom Toast: Sautéed mushrooms on toasted sourdough with ricotta cheese, herbs, and a poached egg.
– Granola and Yogurt: House-made granola served with Greek yogurt, honey, and seasonal fruit.
Prices: Brunch dishes range from $10-$20, offering great value for the quality and portion size.
Personal Experience: High Street on Market delivers on both quality and creativity. The Breakfast Sandwich is hearty and satisfying, while the Mushroom Toast offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures. The cozy decor and friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for a leisurely brunch.
Philadelphia’s brunch scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From the cozy neighborhood vibes of Sabrina’s Café to the elegant French charm of Parc, each brunch spot offers its own unique experience and flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional comfort food, farm-to-table freshness, or inventive culinary twists, Philadelphia has a brunch spot to satisfy every craving.