Brunch Archives - AJ Feuerman

THE 2021 BRUNCHIES

December 29, 2021 By AJ Leave a Comment

Yes! The Brunchies are BACK! Not quite on the grand scale of years past but The 2021 Brunchies will take a new form to go along with these new times. I decided I did not want to go another year without my most beloved honorarium so rather than individual categories — since I was not able to try as many new brunch spots as I would in “normal” times — I’m going to share with you some of the brunches that simply stood out to me this year, as well as restaurants I’m hopeful to try in 2022. And then, additionally, a link to a few articles with solid “best of” recommendations worthy of checking out.

I also want to add how sad I’ve been in these last two years to see so many restaurants close down. Any small business that has fallen victim to Covid-19 is heartbreaking. So please, support small businesses as best you can. Order delivery and take-out from your favorite local eateries. Go dine out on their new patios and try their special take-home kits. Let’s not let so many of these place fall by the wayside.

AND PLEASE! If you have a brunch recommendation of your own, I would LOVE to hear it. Drop it in the comments or send it my way on social media.

STELLAR ATLAS was one of my favorite Quarantine-time discoveries. They produce fresh coffee and fresh bagels – all homemade in Burbank for pick-up or delivery. My personal favorite are the sesame seed bagels but definitely try his nugz and pretzel nugz.

When I ventured back out into the world, as it was in the Spring, one of the first restaurants I visited was WOOD AND WATER in Sherman Oaks. I had the gravalax benedict which comes on potato pancakes, topped with caviar. I’d perviously only been there for dinner, which was delicious. Glad to know they’re well-rounded.

In truth CONSERVATORY in WeHo was one of the only restaurants I repeat-visited this year, due in large part to their wonderful patio – and my friend Claire’s addiction to it. (I don’t even know if the restaurant even has indoor seating, actually.) The service rocks, the food is great and the cocktail program is top notch.

PIZZANA (locations in Brentwood and Beverly Hills) is not exactly a brunch spot but I was into it the moment I saw their Chef, Daniele Uditi beat Bobby Flay with his signature white pizza — the Cacio e Pepe pizza. On the off chance you don’t know what Cacio e Pepe is, the pizza is topped with provoloncino di agerola, fior di latte, parmigiano crema and cracked black pepper. (If you have to google any of that, I will not judge you.)

The breakfast sandwich at HIGHLY LIKELY is really tasty with its squishy soft bun, soft scrambled eggs and Wisconsin cheddar cheese sauce. It’s a gem of a coffee shop in Culver City.

Another Culver City gem in MARGOT with its rooftop patio. I had poached eggs and polenta with a roasted red pepper sugo and feta. I went back for dinner not long after and though it was a pricey evening, it was just as good as the brunch. And let me give you this tip: Use the valet parking. Finding street parking in that neighborhood is a nightmare.

So! There you have it. Thus concludes The Brunchies 2021. Perhaps because of the way and weight of our world, every meal out of the house felt so much more special this year and it’s my sincere hope that this feeling carries over into every meal with friends and family in the future. Many of us realize now that these are not moments to take for granted.

If you’re thirsty for more, here are some great articles to refer to:

“100 Best Brunch Restaurants in America” (Big ups to THE FRONT YARD, which is in my neighborhood!)
“Los Angeles Food Writers Share Their Go-To Restaurants in 2021“
“The Most Exciting LA Restaurant Openings For 2021“
“The Best Brunch Spots in LA” (as of November 2021)

And lastly, a short list of restaurants I am eager to try in 2022:

The Rooftop by JG
The Great Maple
The Girl and the Goat
Manuela (A note here: I have been to Manuela for dinner. It was one of the worst restaurant experiences of my life, no joke. But a handful of people I know insist their brunch is amazing and my curiosity is getting the better of me.)
Poppy + Rose
Ostrich Farm (if/when they reopen)

Wishing you and yours a healthy and happy new year. May the coming year be kind to us all.

THE 2018 BRUNCHIES

December 27, 2018 By AJ Leave a Comment

And the award goes to…..

It’s time for the 2018 Brunchies! I am so excited because it’s time to give out my annual BRUNCH AWARDS! YES! It’s been another stellar year of decadent mid-morning meals, Benedicts, toasts, cocktails and more. It’s my hope that in 2019, I can continue to bring you the best Brunch-related content over at @HollywoodBrunch and perhaps get back to my long lost newsletter for the subject. I’ve also had the privilege of being a journalist on the meal I love most, now — I’d love to do more of that work as well (and, in fact, another article will be out in January).

The envelope, PLEASE….!

BEST BENEDICT: Aeirloom Cafe (Toluca Lake)

For years I’ve lived near this small, bustling Cafe and only once popped in for lunch on a weekday because it was convenient. When I finally got over there for Brunch (albeit on a weekday — they are only open for breakfast and lunch, seven days a week), I had to chastise myself. What a menu! It’s so epically vast and I’ll need to go several more times to truly conquer it. But I thoroughly enjoyed their Eggs Benedict because the thick, fresh English Muffin they serve it on is to die for. live22

BEST NON-TRADITIONAL BENEDICT: Fig & Olive (Melrose)

Fig & Olive was a gorgeous restaurant before and is even more beautiful following a little refreshing this year. I love going there for any meal and have been for years, though this year was the first time I partook in their Brunch. Their Benedict combination is something I’d never imagine enjoying as much as I did — poached egg with prosciutto di parma,
manchego cheese, pear and hollandaise sauce.

BEST PASTRY: 189 by Dominique Ansel (Fairfax)

I know I am late to this but dear lord, the CRONUT is real and I am HERE FOR IT. They change the Cronut flavor monthly but when I got to enjoy it, it was a Maple French Toast Cronut that went down nice n’ smooth.

An honorable mention in this category would also go to 189 for their Kouign Amann pastry. It’s buttery and delicious. You can buy them to take home in packs of four and it’s worth every calorie.

BEST BLOODY MARY: The Henry (West Hollywood)

I’d been itching to try The Henry since before it opened and it did not disappoint. They might also get the “Best Aesthetic” and “Best Patio” honors were it not for my desire to spread the love. And their Bloody Mary cart is just epic. Spend only a couple bucks more to take advantage of it. Choose from four homemade infused vodkas and a myriad of accoutrements like bleu cheese olives, bacon, salt and celery.

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Honorable Mention: The Bloody Mary at Granville is simple but perfect. (And the ones I make at home are pretty damned good, too.)

BEST SMALL PLATE: Black Market Liquor Bar (Studio City)

Perhaps we can say Cauliflower is the new Avo Toast, yes? I’ve seen it on a ton of Brunch menus in the last year (and for other meals as well) but no one does it better, in my opinion, than Black Market Liquor Bar, where they lightly fry the cauliflower and then top it with parmigiano-reggiano and serve it with a side of yummy lemon aioli.

BEST NEWCOMER/BEST FRENCH BRUNCH: Petite Trois (Sherman Oaks)

The Valley rejoiced as Chef Ludo decided to expand his empire our way when he opened his second Petite Trois in Sherman Oaks. And there are more Ludo-run establishments to come! And while last year I seemed to come across many a Mexi-Brunch, this year the French-inspired Brunch was very prevalent. So why wouldn’t this honor go to one of the most acclaimed French restaurants around? Their French Omelette is available on the menu for any meal and is absolute perfection. My favorite surprise was how much I loved the smoked salmon tartine, due mostly in part to the wonderfully salty caper berries.

Honorable Mention (both for Newcomer and French): Bluebird Brasserie in Sherman Oaks. Are we seeing a Brunch Renaissance blossoming in this suburb of the Valley? Only time will tell but it looks promising.

BEST FOR GROUPS: The Bellwether (Studio City)

For reasons I’ve never been able to figure out, despite landing on so many “best of” lists, The Bellwether just doesn’t get crowded on weekends. Not in my experience, anyway. So until the rest of the city catches on, feel free to make a reservation and head there with your large group. They have a lengthy menu of shared plates — the brioche French toast is probably my fave.

BEST PATIO: Baltaire (Brentwood)

Save your pennies because Baltaire is pricey but it’s an elegant, mid-century mod setting and just the spot if you need to take Mom out for Mother’s Day. The whole restaurant is bright and airy with their floor-to-ceiling windows. And when they’re opened, the whole restaurant is transformed to an indoor/outdoor experience. The patio is very private and quite large but manages to feel cozy and they have extremely attentive staff. (Hint: Start with the cheddar scallion biscuits.)

BEST VIEW: The Strand House (Manhattan Beach)

Oh sure, you have to look out over a parking lot, but there’s really nothing wrong with that once you see the incredible beach behind it. And the restaurant is in a fun area for walking around afterward!

BEST AESTHETIC: The Nomad (DTLA)

I am obsessed with The Nomad Hotel downtown. It. Is. GORGEOUS. I can only imagine the attention paid to its design. There is so much detail and every inch of the place is luxurious.

Brunches I Need to Try in 2019

Five Leaves (Koreatown)
Post & Beam (Baldwin Hills/Downtown LA)
Preux and Proper (DTLA)
Ingo’s Tasty Diner (Santa Monica)
Lincoln (Pasadena)
Jacks N’ Joe’s (DTLA)

Brunches Other People Keep Telling me I Need to Try in 2019

Huckleberry (Santa Monica)
Bone Kettle (Pasadena)
The Reyn (Pasadena)
Madera Kitchen (Hollywood)
The Smokehouse (Burbank)

POSTSCRIPT

These were the Brunches on my “to try” lists last year that I ventured to (and enjoyed!) in 2018:

189 by Dominique Ansel (The Grove)
Baltaire (Brentwood)
The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker (West Hollywood)
The Henry (West Hollywood)
Square One Dining (East LA)

Make sure you’re following my brunch adventures on Instagram. Here’s to many more delicious, decadent meals in 2019!

Friday Favorites – Live From Box City

September 14, 2018 By AJ Leave a Comment

I need theme music! “LIVE! FROM BOX CITY! HOORAY!” The audience applauds….

My tiny apartment is a box city. I am moving on Wednesday — not far at all from where I live now — and I am both excited and stressed out beyond belief. MOVING SUCKS. It especially sucks when you are running your own business out of the home your are packing up. It is even harder when you have a seven month old puppy running around, trying to eat everything in said boxes. SIGH.

WHAT I READ

OMG. This reporter ate Brunch at the Scientology Celebrity Center. A fascinating read. I wanna goooooooo….
I am so sad that this is our reality — teachers taking second and third jobs to make ends meet. This is unacceptable.
This is so interesting. Every year in Paris, they have a day without ANY CARS. What a cool idea. I wonder how they make it happen?! Los Angeles would probably collapse on itself.

OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

Our Best Bites has aggregated some amazing-looking apple recipes. YUM!!!
Alice’s family’s Summer vacation looks idyllic.
Do you take advantage of Give Back Box? If you order anything from certain retailers online, they will print you a label for free shipping to use their packaging for gently-worn clothing donations.
Vanity Fair does this great online series, “73 Random Questions.” I love this latest episode with Lady Gaga.

PR & SOCIAL MEDIA

A new study tracks how teens really feel in relation to social media. I love this stuff.
Some great tips to running a successful Instagram giveaway.
Don’t forget on September 24, I am moderating a Social Media Club panel discussion about crisis communications! Get details and tickets here.

EARLIER THIS WEEK

Pottery Barn unveiled a line of Harry Potter homewares and I want to be a kid again.
One of my clients made a very cool casting announcement! Check it out.
Joe Biden rejoined Instagram. That made me happy.
I saw Enchanted and it’s so cute and clever. What a fun movie! Have you seen it?

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

Paula Abdul CRUSHED IT on The Late Late Show. I’ve watched this multiple times.

One of my idols, Marin Mazzie, a three-time Tony nominee, passed away this week from Ovarian Cancer. I have been unable to shut off her music since. She was just 57. What a loss. I had the privilege of seeing her a few times on stage, twice on Broadway, and she left an indelible mark on my soul.

Holiday Gift Guide: Brunch

November 30, 2017 By AJ Leave a Comment

Whilst brainstorming additional gift guide ideas, it suddenly clicked — “DUH.” I mean, other than puppies and Chris Evans, what do I love most on this Earth? So check out this Holiday Gift Guide: for the Brunch lover in your life!

BRUNCHING BEVERAGES

My favorite brunch beverage is a Bloody Mary and I’ve been known to make them at home, too. I totally love these kits from Uncommon Goods — a “Build Your Own” kit and their Diagram Glassware. Get creative and include it with a basket of fresh veggies and mix. If you need a good one to throw in, the Mr. and Mrs. T’s mixes they sell at most supermarkets is one of my faves — the “Bold & Spicy” is the best.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with gifting a beautiful bottle of champagne or Proseco, either. Mimosas are a brunch’s best friend.

Teas are also a really beautiful gift. Adagio is my favorite online tea shop — they have some lovely glassware, loose leaf teas, sachets and more. Harney & Sons “Paris” blend is one of my favorites as well — and they sell their teas in beautiful tins that present well for gifting.

BRUNCHING ATTIRE

Can we talk about how badly I want these “Brunch So Hard” socks? Socks are an underrated gift — I love to find cute socks that are personal to the recipient as gifts. Buy Me Brunch is perhaps the best online shop for brunch-themed gear, though, by virtue of their name alone, right? Whenever I wear my “The Brunch Life Chose Me” shirt from Tees in the Trap, I get stopped on the street.

Of course, when it comes to brunch attire, you’re nowhere without oversized, dark sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat. Perhaps a cardigan or sweater for the cooler months with a chunky scarf.

And if anything else, find the best local brunch spot and hand over a gift certificate. No one will be dismayed when brunch is on someone else! But I also love to head to Etsy.com, and simply type the word “brunch” into the search bar to see what comes up!

Brunch at SPRING in Downtown LA

November 22, 2017 By AJ 1 Comment

A charming outdoor brunch setting actually inside

Having Brunch at Spring in Downtown LA is like removing yourself from actual LA. Stepping inside magically transports you to a simple, pretty Bistro in the South of France. And in that setting, it’s hard to believe you’re actually on the corner of 3rd and Spring, at the base of the Douglas Building in the Historic District, a short walk from the iconic Last Bookstore.

It helps that though it’s a clean and simple space, it is also clear that the owners paid attention to fine details like leather-bound menus, colorful florals, a trickling fountain (I found it so peaceful) and a sparkling atrium.

The Chef is respectful of his ingredients, using fresh, local products. This is most apparent in their absolutely perfect pastries – it’s a must-order plate that comes with croissant, pain au chocolat, baguette and delicious, seasonal house made preserves. (At the end of our meal, we happened by the prep area with plates and plates of these pastries. It took everything in me not to put some of them in my purse.)

The Lobster Benedict is also a fresh, savory meal — the lobster itself is just so yummy! They serve it up with Spinach, which is not my thing, so I’ll pass on that next time. All I need is that shellfish, that sauce and those English muffins. I would also advise to try the little side salad. It seems rather like a throw-away but in fact serves as a perfect counter-balance to the richness of the Benedict.

We couldn’t imagine ordering something else but it seemed a shame not to try some pancakes. They were simple, fluffy, buttermilk pancakes but we didn’t need more more than that after the heavy dishes. I don’t know that if I returned I could pass up all the other more unique options (for example, the Steak Benedict with Bearnaise sauce? YES.) on the menu to have pancakes, but if you’re the person who craves pancakes for breakfast, these will do, I promise.

The other thing high on my list to try next time I go? The smoked salmon tartine on country bread toast with horseradish spread, smoked salmon, capers, arugula, dill. And perhaps the croque madame, if only so I can compare it to the croque madame at The Church Key, which I am obsessed with, and see how it compares! And even though I am a brunch devotee, I am dying to go back to Spring for dinner because the menu looks absolutely incredible.

When we were there, my friend and I remarked that Spring is also a perfect “girls night out” restaurant. So if you’re a female friend and you’re reading this, you oughta drop me a hint, hint in the comments so I invite you when I plan this.

Before we part ways, one more tip. There are several public parking lots in the area and truthfully, it’s not a part of town I am comfortable walking around by myself in, so I snagged the first, closest lot I could. I would even challenge you to leave some extra time and find parking on Spring St. if you can. They did not have a valet when I was there but it may be something they’ve since added — and I would use it if you are able.

Brunch at Red O in Santa Monica

November 20, 2017 By AJ 1 Comment

All The Best Things About Mexican Brunch — Or Brunch in General

My most favorite brunch spots always meet the following requirements: They incorporate the outdoors in some way, there is a colorful setting, it’s an energetic spot but not overly noisy, they make an outstanding Bloody Mary, they serve appetizers (because dammit, I want to try more than one thing on the menu!) and usually great desserts, they have a lot of choices with a few not-found-elsewhere items and, most importantly, I can get a side of bacon if my meal doesn’t come with it. Because bacon. Because Brunch at Red O in Santa Monica from celeb chef Rick Bayless.

Outdoors? Colorful setting? Absolutely.

There is a patio at Red O but even if you sit inside, you get to enjoy light coming in from the big windows which, might I add, reflects off all their colorful glass and lighting fixtures. The front of the restaurant is all windows and when we went, they were open so we made the most of perfect weather and being right across the street from the ocean. It also brings all the crazy energy of Santa Monica to your experience. (Like, real crazy, y’all. Santa Monica gets pretty whacky.)

Top Notch Booze.

Mexican restaurants really know how to make a Bloody Mary. At Red O it’s a tiny bit spicy but it’s perfect. It remains my quintessential brunch cocktail. That said, if that’s not your thing, the Red O brunch cocktail choices are vast with Sangria, tons of Margaritas, a massive Tequila menu, beers, wines, hand crafted cocktails (I wanna go back and try the Horchata Colada), etc. They also have a very popular bottomless options and pitchers to choose from. So….. remember to take a Lyft, guys.

Classic Appetizers? For sure.

If a Mexican restaurant is gifting me pre-meal chips and salsa, that salsa better be delicious. Now granted, I’m picky on my salsas. I can’t do spicy but I don’t want to dip my chips in a bland marinara sauce either. And by the way, I’m also one of those annoying people who think cilantro tastes like soap (shut up, it totally does). I’m also a sucker for ordering queso fundido or guacamole and mixing it all up together. (Is that weird? I don’t care.) Anyway, they’re doing up their small plates right at Red O. Everything is packed with flavor, nothing is overpowering and I didn’t mind a tinge of spice here or there, nor a little cilantro in fact. And how about something off the beaten path with duck taquitos? They’re a perfect, savory bite.

Options and Specialties.

The words LOBSTER BENEDICT jumped off the menu and slapped us right in our taste buds so the only decision we had to make was what else to order — which wasn’t that easy. But ultimately we settled on something more traditional; the Chilaquiles. I know you’re not shocked that both dishes were wonderful. You’ve never tasted anything as rich as LOBSTER with HOLLANDAISE, guys. And I can never ever resist the lure of what are essentially “breakfast nachos.” Biting into a single chip with egg and cotija cheese and creme fraiche — it gives me life.

The Pièce de Résistance?

Brunch is naturally a pretty decadent meal in of itself so capping it off with dessert is not a necessity for me but when the Chef says he’s just gonna send over a few “small things” for you to sample, why would you say no? And you better believe my jaw dropped right onto the table when a platter complete with every. dessert. on. the. menu. arrived at our table. Plantain cake (think banana bread, but better), Passion fruit butter cake (has anything in the history of the world with “butter” in the title ever been bad?), a homemade churro with chocolate sauce, and a chocolate tart. As if that wasn’t enough, a bowl of their sorbets came out a moment later and I damn near pulled out the elastic in my waistband.

Check, Check and Check.

I love this restaurant and let me give you some additional tips. They have four locations but not all of them serve brunch so be sure and consult the website for details. In Santa Monica, parking is everywhere so you can either use one of the public lots for a few bucks or use the valet on Ocean Ave. And there’s so much in walking distance there, you may want to leave time for a stroll on the beach or on the Third Street Promenade afterward! Walk off those eats!

Make sure you’re following my Brunch adventures on INSTAGRAM!

Friday Favorites: Falling Into Fall

September 29, 2017 By AJ Leave a Comment

Do you ever talk out loud while you type? I find that when I am alone at home, working on this stuff, sometimes I speak what I am typing out loud. It’s an old-lady type trait that at first angered me but now kind of makes me laugh. Anyway, just know that as I am typing this, I am saying it out loud to myself. Also, know I am super happy it’s Fall; I can’t wait for the weather to change. Mostly because the heat in Los Angeles lasts til October and my office doesn’t have air conditioning. But I digress!

WHAT I READ

As it is Fall, it is time for Gourds. This article about them from 2009 is HYSTERICAL. Side note: I made the mistake of covertly reading it during a meeting. And then I died laughing. (Luckily it was a casual group.)
When her employees go on vacation, Arianna Huffington DELETES THEIR WORK EMAILS. WOW. Who has the balls to do that? Well, I guess she does.
This great list of brunch spots in Santa Monica which made me think I need to do my own “Best Brunches in ________________” lists!
Looks like Obama’s chillin’ with Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. You know what those guys are thinking, right? “Not my monkeys, not my circus.”

OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

A Cookie Named Desire’s recipe for Brown Butter Banana Cake with Brown Butter Frosting. Because REASONS.
I’m super into protein pancakes, believe it or not. I love Beyond Frosting’s Banana Walnut Protein Pancake recipe — although for me, I’d have to omit the walnuts.
And since I seem to be on this random, massive banana kick here, how about this amazing looking chocolate chip banana bread from What’s Gaby Cooking?

EARLIER THIS WEEK

I wrote a review of Hollywood’s 800 Degrees Pizzeria. It’s delicious! And I’m giving away a $25 gift card!
The Valley Film Festival let me talk to a room full of filmmakers about “The Fine Art of PR for Indie Film.” I don’t know what they were thinking. But if you want to listen to me talk too much and name drop, click here.
Megyn Kelly’s daytime talk show launched on NBC. Jane Fonda had a rather compelling reaction when Kelly asked her about her plastic surgery….

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

I can’t say I know anything about Ugandan politics but boy does their Parliament throw down. An all-out brawl broke out — click to 2:30 if you don’t want to wait, but the crescendo’s not bad either.

HBO has scheduled the Spielberg documentary for October. I’m pretty excited. What’s your favorite Steven Spielberg movie?

Friday Favorites on a Saturday Afternoon

July 8, 2017 By AJ Leave a Comment

I know, I know. Friday Favorites on a Saturday afternoon?! What gives?

Well, all day yesterday I tried to carve out 30 minutes to draft my “favorites” of the week for you but I failed. I guess it’s only fair that during the waking hours my job comes first. The day of work lead into an evening at home doing more work, lead into packing, going to bed early and then ultimately, getting p early today to attend a blogging conference in Temecula. (Oh. By the way. Greetings from BLOGGY BOOTCAMP!)

WHAT I READ

Science is doing me a solid — it has confirmed I am a genius. Find out why.
I have not seen Baby Driver yet, but I really want to. I was tickled when prestigious entertainment Editor Peter Bart analyzed the film’s musicality against the backdrop of my company’s documentary, SCORE.
Cheesecake Factory has unveiled…. WAIT FOR IT…. A FUNFETTI CHEESECAKE.

OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

I had never heard of the website, The Grommet. Am I the last to know? Someone spoke about it at the conference this morning. I WANT TO BUY ALL THE THINGS.
Carolyn’s husband’s late Uncle was one of the most prominent theme park designers and she uncovered an old interview of his — it was fascinating!
Jen discusses the fine line between getting attention and being called to attention.

EARLIER THIS WEEK

I had an absolutely exquisite, savory brunch at Kismet.

USA Today premiered the trailer for California Typewriter, a new documentary I am working on. You might recognize some of the up and coming talent….
Doug Fernandez of KOAT 7 in Albuquerque gave up. Watch:

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

At a Green Day concert in Europe, before the show began, the crowd sang “Bohemian Rhapsody” in unison and it’s rather stunning:

This dog just needs a break. I feel you, dude.

The Cannibal in Culver City is Ridiculous

February 21, 2017 By AJ 1 Comment

Ridiculously GOOD, that is. Obscene.

One of the reasons I love brunch so much is that it always feels like a treat. I mean, when you think about it, brunch is actually doing you a favor. In combining breakfast and lunch, you probably get to sleep a little later and you’re only consuming one meal instead of two.

That said, I wouldn’t really call brunch a calorie-saver. This is very true for The Cannibal Beer & Butcher in Culver City. Come hungry.

The brunch menu at Cannibal is unlike anything you’ve ever seen, I promise. And I’ll warn you up front that you’ll have to go more than once because whatever your order, you’ll wish you had ordered something else. But everything’s a win. Take, for example, their rather famous “Double Down Sandwich.” Egg, bacon, sausage, cheese and an avocado pesto served on hash brown patties instead of bread.

Need a close up on that? Allow me:

The Cannibal takes a lot of pride in their “weird” menu, in fact. On their starters, you’ll find a pop tart, but not just any pop tart — it’s a pop tart with bacon icing. And their eggs benedict is far from traditional with steak tartare and Bernaise sauce. (They actually call it the “Cannibal Benedict.”)

I like the idea of brunch starters. You see it more and more on brunch menus and it’s like the restaurant giving you permission to try more than one dish without the guilt. For example, we didn’t feel guilty at all starting with the warm butter biscuit that came with sea salt caramel and uncured butter.

First and foremost, Cannibal is a butcher shop. It’s a spinoff of a popular spot in New York and vegetarians should beware. No one is interested in a Kale bowl here but you might find yourself going home with some really appetizing meats and spreads. And if you’re a beer fan, definitely check it out — they have 200 to choose from. The patio is small but lovely and worth putting in an ask for when you make a reservation. If you’re too hungover and wanna hang inside, you’ll likely enjoy the rustic vibe.

They are metro-convenient and have their own parking garage so you’re good to go. Grab yer stretchy pants!

P.S. (Google what their Tater Tots look like. You’re welcome.)

P.P.S. (They also have a great happy hour and produce a wonderful Charcuterie board!)

Please don’t forget to follow me on Instagram, @HollywoodBrunch, and sign up for the newsletter!

More to come.

The 2016 BRUNCHIES

December 22, 2016 By AJ 1 Comment

The Best Brunch in Los Angeles in 2016

Happy holidays, fellow foodies and welcome to the 2016 Brunchies, recognizing the best brunch in Los Angeles in 2016.

In Los Angeles, Brunch is a part of our culture. It’s oversized sunglasses and purposefully tousled ponytails, three-day-old beards, and whatever wasn’t already in the laundry when you got dressed. It’s bottomless mimosas and craft Bloody Marys. Brunch is a celebration of all things — the end of a fabulous (or not fabulous) weekend! Our fabulous lives! Our abysmal lives! A day that ends in ‘y’! Whatever. It’s delicious. Who cares.

In 2014, when I was freelancing for The Bold Italic’s short-lived Los Angeles bureau, I was charged with giving out a series of Brunch awards, which I lovingly named “The Brunchies.” Alas, they are a defunct bureau yet my love of Brunch lives on in infinitum. So I decided to resurrect the honors and let you all in on the biggest hits of my 2016 brunch life.

Best View

The Penthouse (Santa Monica)

I’ve cited this one before but you just can’t beat their view. The food is good — you’ll find traditional items like Benedict and baked eggs but you’ll also find a killer rigatoni and pan seared Branzino. Make sure you save some room and your calories so you can start the meal with their cinnamon rolls or enjoy some dessert afterward. You get 360 degree views there but ladies, make a stop in the bathroom, too. The view from the last stall is something patrons wait in line for!

Honorable Mention: The Castaway (Burbank) — and complimentary champagne is included in their brunch buffet!

Best Avocado Toast

Flower Child (Santa Monica)

I don’t know what these magical wizards do over there but this simple combination of avocado, a soft egg, black sesame and a little white cheddar on their dense, whole grain toast is so good that you may actually order two pieces. And by the way, it’s only $6 and 360 calories so in addition to being utterly delicious, it’s guilt-free.

I’m pretty obsessed with this place, by the way. It’s worth mentioning that their whole menu is delicious and I’m gutted that it’s not closer to where I live.

Honorable Mention: BLD (Mid-city).

BLD’s Avocado Toast puts a unique spin on the trendy menu item. They bake poached eggs, chorizo, manchego cheese, smoked paprika right into the avocado and serve thick, lightly-toasted sourdough on the side. The chorizo really elevates the flavor.

Best Group Brunch

The Church Key (West Hollywood)

I love The Church Key’s sprawling space that can open up in the front to the street so that you can enjoy the indoor/outdoor dining West Hollywood Brunches are meant for. With all their space and vintage charm, a lot of their big tables are like their own tableaus and what’s more, they have many tables set up with large groups in mind. The first time I enjoyed brunch there with a large group, we sat around a big, round table, which is always ideal to me so that no one feels cast away to the end of a row and is unable to chat with the folks at the other end. Also clutch for any group brunch? They take reservations.

Best Mexi-Brunch

Mercado (locations in Santa Monica, Mid-City and on the Cahuenga Pass)

Everything at Mercado arrives on your table looking and tasting fresh. As a second honor, I might also reward them with “Best Breakfast Burrito” — the massive wrap is stuffed with scrambled eggs, nueske bacon, mexican rice, frijoles negros, roasted potatoes, pico de gallo and oaxaca cheese. Their “Chilaquiles Rojos con Huevos” is a true winner as well but you must add the carnitas to it because the way they prepare their carnitas alone is unbelievably delicious.

Got room for an appetizer? Their chips are just as fresh as anything else on the menu, made in house. The queso will leave you wishing the portion was bigger but only after you’ve also polished off their guacamole, topped with spicy pepitas.

Best Bloody Mary

Hyperion Public (Locations in Studio City and Silver Lake)

Even though they may be best known best for their “f yeah” fries and their “omg dip,” their simple, classic Bloody Mary leaves a mark. The mix is made on site and though you won’t find it bacon infused or loaded with a slider-on-a-stick, there is nothing flawed about it. Now that they’ve opened their second location in Studio City, there are two locations to enjoy it at. (P.S. They also started offering bottomless mimosas this year and lord-have-mercy do they make a great stack of pancakes!)

Best Brunch That’s Not For Me

Au Fudge (West Hollywood)

Founded by Jessica Biel, the cleverly named Au Fudge is a restaurant that caters to children first. You enter through a rustic, country gift shop that sells baked goods along with tchotchkes and toys. Beyond, a bubbly cafe setting adorned with marble, pastels and plenty of kitschy kid-friendly space. (Even the bathrooms have kid-friendly sinks and toilets!) The hub of the restaurant is a large creative space that runs the whole length of the restaurant. It is enclosed, filled with craft tables, toys, and staffed. It is available for parents to drop their kids into at a rate of $15 for two hours so they can dine “in peace” though plenty of patrons bring their kids to the table where a rather indulgent kids menu and crayons await. It is a super-energetic space where you seldom hear the word “no” among the noise and clutter of it all. My meal was delicious, my company was lovely, but it’s never going to be my first choice because I’m quite the snobby bruncher.

Best Patio

Eveleigh (West Hollywood)

Eveleigh may be located in the heart of WeHo but once you walk through the restaurant and out to their rear patio, it’s like being transported to an chic, rustic tree-house escape. The one thing I’ll caution is that the breathtaking setting might leave you with rose-colored glasses. The food is good, but not great. The service is adequate though the servers are all modelesque and not particularly warm. And the prices are a bit high. So it’s up to you how badly you want to dine in this setting!

Honorable Mention: Terrine (Mid-City)

Best Brunch Nachos

Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern (West Hills)

Jimmy’s “Totchos” are tater tots, cheese sauce, sour cream, bacon and salsa and they. are. everything. It’s not a fancy spot, set in the new outdoor half of Westfield Topanga, but it’s comfortable and the staff is exceptionally friendly and accommodating. Jimmy’s puts their own spin on American classics with everything prepared by hand in small batches with high-quality, fresh ingredients. The result is super flavorful, elevated pub food that will have you passing your fork around the table for a bite of everything. And the Totchos. Definitely have the Totchos. (Pictured below with the sour cream on the side because someone at our table doesn’t like the stuff. Insanity.)

Best Non-Traditional Brunch

Barrel and Ashes (Studio City)

The South comes to the San Fernando Valley with a Brunch that includes BBQ, small plates, craft cocktails and a boatload of charm. They’s also doing a good service by opening for brunch at 10:30 in a town where most places open their doors at 11. I’ve narrowed my favorite menu items to two: The Frito Pie and the Hoe Cake. The first is essentially white trash nachos — a Fritos bag popped open on it’s side and loaded up with goodies like chili, cheddar cheese, sour cream, peppers and onions. The latter is a cornmeal flatbread loaded with maple butter and green onion, served on a sizzling skillet. They have some hoe cakes with toppings on the menu but all I’ve ever needed is the “regular.”

Best Sleeper Brunch

Cannibal (Culver City)

Why wasn’t this place more crowded when I went? Was it an off day? Are people intimidated by menu items like the “Double Down” – a sandwich with bacon, ham, sausage, cheese, two eggs and avocado pesto served on bread that is actually hash brown patties? Cannibal, which doubles as a hip butcher shop, is an indulgent experience but if you can shove your guilt way down deep, it’s so freakin’ delicious. Surely it must be on it’s way to being one of the most popular brunch spots in Los Angeles.

Honorable Mention: Ledlow (Downtown)

* * *

So what is, OVERALL, the best brunch in Los Angeles in 2016? It’s just too hard to say and there are still so many I need to try! So I just refuse to answer that question. When someone asks me for a recommendation, I always respond by asking what area they want to be in, what kind of setting they’r seeking, what they want to spend… It’s impossible to name the best brunch in Los Angeles, but I think that’s a GREAT idea of how much the city has to offer! Thank you, 2016, for some amazing Sunday meals with friends! And now…

Brunches I Need to Try in 2017

Post & Beam (Baldwin Hills)
Spear Steak & Seafood (Downtown LA)
Odys + Penelope (Mid-City)
Magnolia House (Pasadena)
Sonoma Wine Garden (Santa Monica)
Sunny Spot (Venice)
Wolf (Mid-City)

Don’t forget! If you love brunch as much as I do — or hell, even half as much as I do, you’ll want to put your email address into the newsletter subscription box in the top right corner to receive reviews and exclusive content. 2017 will be a whole new year of brunch adventures!