Before you pour that sad little bowl of cereal this weekend, consider your alternatives. While Echo Park may not be celebrated for its slew of brunch destinations, we present you five good reasons to get out there and indulge.
1. The Park’s Organic French-Press Coffee
There’s no better way to start a Sunday–-or Saturday, for that matter. We’re not sure if it’s the perfect cup of coffee that pulls us into this cozy neighborhood bistro, or the organic eggs and applewood bacon, but our bellies aren’t complaining. You can also fill up on carnitas hash; opt for a fluffy frittata packed with wild mushrooms, spinach, onion and gruyere; or go big with prime ham steak and eggs served with hashbrowns. Brunch: Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
2. Whiskey Bread Pudding at
If you haven’t stopped by this cute corner bakery for brunch yet, we have three words for you: whiskey bread pudding. For breakfast. Okay, that’s five. The breakfast version of this indulgent specialty is topped with strawberries and caramelized bananas. Other comforting options include biscuits and gravy, a thick Belgian waffle or an egg scrambled skillet – all served with potatoes and a basket of muffins or scones. Get there early, as the picket-fence patio fills up quickly. Brunch: Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
3. ’s Brioche French Toast
While it may not scream brunch destination, any fan of French toast should give the version made with Masa's fresh-baked brioche a try. Served thick and golden brown, the French toast comes with a side of seasoned potatoes and bacon or sausage. Beyond the brioche, the brunch menu is fairly small and straightforward – eggs scrambled, poached or folded into an omelette. There’s also Eggs Clementine, a spin on eggs Benedict with sautéed spinach, ham or veggie sausage and hollandaise atop buttery brioche. Brunch: Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
4. Dairy-Free Brunch at
Who says you need eggs for a satisfying mid-morning meal? Open since February, this fresh bistro offers a brunch menu packed with creative organic offerings. Tofu scrambles and omelettes are dressed up with everything from sundried tomato pesto to peppers, pine nuts and fresh dill. In the mood for flapjacks? Choose from sweet potato pancakes or the date and orange buckwheat option. You’ll also find comfort food favorites like smoked mac and cheese served with a biscuit and gravy and walnut sausage. Vegan food has never been so tempting. Brunch: Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
5. $3 Craft Beers at
Okay, so maybe it’s closer to lunch or dinner (does that make it “linner”?), but AYC’s “unbrunch” is a no-brainer for those of you who slept too late to motivate in the morning. The abbreviated menu includes options like lobster salad rolls and Cuban pork tostadas, along with perfect Sunday splurges like onion rings and garlic fries. Purchase any food and all craft beers on tap are just three bucks. Brunch: Sundays 4 to 9 p.m.
