7 Hartford Brunches to Enjoy this Summer

The weather is getting warmer, restaurant patios are open, and people are safely reuniting for the first time in over a year – the perfect storm for a thriving summer brunch scene here in Hartford! 

As foodies, we love living in a city with so many dining options. However, we know that the options can be overwhelming for those visiting or slowly reacclimating to the city post-quarantine. 

To help you get the most out of the 2021 summer brunch season, we put together this list of our seven favorite brunches here in Hartford (in no particular order). Read on to learn more about each restaurant’s take on the famous fourth meal and discover the perfect restaurant match for your ideal version of brunch:

1. Sunberry Cafe

Technically, Sunberry Cafe serves Saturday and Sunday breakfast, not brunch. However, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the delicious fresh-squeezed mimosas and breakfast entrees created right here on Pratt Street!

From the classic Stone Breakfast Plate to the hearty Omelet Platter, Sunberry’s curated weekend breakfast menu packs a flavorful punch. One thing is for sure – everything on the curated breakfast menu is made with the same passion for food that has made Sunberry the premier destination for Korean cuisine in the Hartford area. With their patio seating, you can enjoy your breakfast/brunch without missing out on any of the action happening here on Pratt Street.

2. Red Rock Tavern

Capitol Avenue’s cornerstone restaurant serves both Saturday and Sunday brunch with fruity pebble pancakes anchoring their Saturday menu, and the crispy waffle sandwich stealing the show on Sundays.

Red Rock’s Sunday’s brunch service offers a bottomless option in terms of cocktails, and both days provide a creative variety of brunch beverages, including mimosa pitchers, boozy iced coffee, and loaded bloody mary’s.

3. Republic at the Linden 

If you’re looking for elevated brunch fare, executed with care, look no further than Republic at the Linden. The gastropub’s weekend brunch is led by their new Complete Brunch deal featuring a brunch entree, cocktail, and chef-selected dessert for under $24. In true gastropub fashion, the brunch menu also features elegant small plates and lighter salads alongside classics like frittatas and crepes. We’ve also got our fingers crossed that the end of the pandemic will mark the return of their quality bloody mary bar.

4. The Half Door

The Half Door is a local favorite for their hearty servings of delicious, classic brunch dishes with a euro-gastro-pub flare. You’ll find unique dishes on their brunch menu, like the breakfast poutine, alongside their usual pub fare for a no-nonsense meal that is all about the food. If your group is split between wings and beers or benedicts and mimosas, skip the fight and set your sights for The Half Door.

5. Tisane

When you’ve had your fill of traditional brunch fare, turn to Tisane Euro-Asian Cafe in the West End. The fusion restaurant has a brunch menu full of unique creations and in-house classics such as the El Camino pictured above. You’ll also discover new ways to fill your caffeine and cocktail cravings with their homemade coffee and tea cocktails – perfect for sipping on their outdoor patio.

6. Fiddleheads Cafe

For a feel-good, farm-to-table brunch, Fiddleheads Cafe is another neighborhood favorite. The understated West End eatery serves up a creative, locally sourced brunch featuring fun egg dishes, omelets (waffle-shaped omelets), and breakfast pizzas. Enjoy your meal al fresco on their expansive patio, which sometimes welcomes local musical guests.

7. The Place 2 Be

You can’t write an article about Hartford’s brunch scene without mentioning The Place 2 Be! From their indulgent dishes and over-the-top drinks to their photo-friendly decor and lively ambiance, The Place 2 Be embodies the experiential element of brunch that makes it much more than just another meal.

You can enjoy decadent griddle favorites such as stuffed french toast and creative cocktails, including the famous drink my bathwater at both their downtown or South End locations. Brunch is served all day, but you’ll want to join the waitlist early for optimal seating. 

We hope we gave you a few new options for your next brunch adventure! No matter what kind of brunch you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it in Hartford!

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