Living in the city I’ve often had
dreams of grandeur. I will admit I am a product of an over indulgent
generation. I am well versed in the idea of a “lady who lunches”. But the harsh reality of things is that
I’m in Pittsburgh, and my brunching abilities have been challenged.
My quest has been simple. I aim to find a place that serves food
from the hours of 11-2. I would
hope that they have an inventive list of items that span from breakfast to
lunch, challenging me to choose just a few. And if at all possible they must have cocktails and
coffees. I can pour myself orange
juice on a Sunday morning. If I
am to pretend that my life is fabulous, I need a beverage that I can
respect. Most importantly however, the food must be delicious.
I’ve visited a few places in the area from higher scale to lower hoping that I can find
the “best place of brunch”.
The formal List:
Habitat
Meat and Potatoes
Casbah
Taste of Dahntahn
The Café Coca
Pamela’s
Double Wide Grille
What I'd like to Highlight:
One of the best parts of brunch for me are the sweet items. A great option and a Pittsburgh institution is Pamela's where the above picture was taken. Almost everyone has heard of their famous hot cakes and mouth watering waffles. You may have noticed that places like DeLuca's, The Original Pancake House, IHOP, Eat N' Park, and the like aren't on my list. The reason for this is simple to me, and it was clearly displayed when I visited the Cafe Coca this past weekend. When I come to a restaurant for brunch, I don't want to be hassled, pushed through droves of people, made to wait on the street, or left standing in a corner sweating next to a baby. If I sign up for that I prefer it be at Pamela's. Period.
As I previously mentioned I've had the pleasure to dine at all of the Big Burrito restaurants. Although many of them offer brunch menus I was most drawn to Casbah because of their creative selections and the fact that they incorporated the most "meats and sweets". I can honestly say that my experience was lovely. For a pris fix price of $24.00 I was able to enjoy a starter, main and cocktail (above the brioche french toast is pictured with the chicken sausage). With a price in the moderate range compared to their dinner menu, I was able to treat my significant other, and order cocktails to spare. I'd also like to highlight that they give you refills of their pastries, which my carb loving behind thoroughly enjoys.
The main reason I even wanted to write this piece was because of my new found love and appreciation for Meat and Potatoes brunch. I've eaten at their restaurant countless times for brunch and consistently had a lovely experience. The creative mind behind their menu, Richard DeShantz continues to nail it. From the artfully prepared and surprising drinks such as the prickly bear bellinis shown above, to the outstanding and delicious breakfast items, I always leave satisfied. I have eaten chicken and waffles, flat breads, hanger steak and fries, omelets, and countless other items that have always wowed. It's also note worthy that if you're extra hungry you can get their "taters and truffle mayo" to start, which will redefine any hangover craving you've ever had. I will admit that Meat and Potatoes is much more expensive than going to a regular diner or getting a cheap thrill. From my humble experience however, being able to make a reservation, the wonderful service, and outstanding quality make it a worthwhile treat.
This concludes my thoughts and experiences from the Pittsburgh brunch scene. If you have any suggestions or new places to try I am more than open to comments! Feel free to email me at williamsrl7813@gmail.com
