Breakfast or lunch? Both. When the clock strikes brunch, it can be challenging to figure out where to go to get it. With obstacles like dietary restrictions, larger groups of people, weather, prices and availability, it may just seem easier to pick between the two. However, picking a place that matches your priorities doesn’t have to be so difficult.
Summer House Santa Monica
Located in North Bethesda is Summer House Santa Monica. The combination of the ambient lighting within the establishment, along with the outdoor sunlight seeping through, allows for a joyful brunch environment. The white walls with hints of light blue with faint music playing in the background allow for a welcoming environment. Seating is available throughout the restaurant with expansive indoor and outdoor seating options. This location is convenient for brunch as well as location, with the Pike & Rose area giving customers the opportunity to shop.
The most notable part about Summer House Santa Monica is the neatly decorated entry, with the iconic light blue cookie bar sign. The cookie bar has over 10 different types of cookies, among other treats, that can be served to a table or purchased at the front, making it a highlight of the experience. “I like the cookies that they have, since they are really good, and they have a variety of options. My favorite is the M&M cookie,” freshman Kavya Vaishnav said.
Ted’s Bulletin
Regardless of whether you’re within the usual brunch hours or not, Ted’s Bulletin still has their All-Day Breakfast menu. The breakfast menu serves all day beginning at 7 a.m., while the entrée and starters menu begins serving at 11 a.m.. “They have a large menu and a lot of really good options. The quality of their food is really good. They have a cinnamon roll that’s as big as your head but I like when brunch places have a mix of sweet and salty things, because I’m more of a salty person for breakfast,” English teacher Rachel Wilsdorf said.
Ted’s Bulletin is located in Downtown Crown, and has seats inside and outside, which are beneficial for varying weather conditions. With brick walls and diner-esque features, this location can provide a nostalgic brunch experience. “I like the atmosphere [of Ted’s Bulletin] because it feels cozy and welcoming. The retro decorations make it different from other restaurants, and it’s a nice place to hang out with friends or family,” freshman Ivy Severe said.
Pura Vida Miami
While more of a newer addition to the area, Pura Vida Miami has managed to make a lasting impression to the brunch community. This is a perfect healthy option for a brunch experience, with seating available inside and outside the location. However, for times when the restaurant is busy, it can be difficult to get a table. The counter in the front of the entry is used for both ordering and handing out food on the other side.
Pura Vida is a pricier option for less of a sit-down brunch experience, but that doesn’t make it any less enticing. The mix of modern and summer ambience can set positive vibes for brunch. “I got their strawberry matcha latte and I thought it was pretty good. I loved the vibes in there. Like, the aesthetic of it. I was like, I want to come back,” Wilsdorf said.
First Watch
From omelets to pancakes, First Watch is a great option for a sit-down breakfast focused brunch. The First Watch website has an online waitlist where you can select the number of members in your party, the location and include special requests before arrival. This virtual line helps to reduce wait time. While occasionally busy during brunch hours, First Watch can still be a rewarding brunch location.
With seasonal specials and locations across the nation, First Watch can be a perfect option for a sit down breakfast focused brunch. First Watch has a laid-back environment, which can fit the mood of a slow morning, and is open from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m..
