If you want to quickly become one of my good friends, invite me to go out for brunch. Seriously, I think it is one of the most overlooked meals, and yet it’s my favorite meal to share with friends. I’m not talking breakfast (don’t get me wrong—I like that meal as well), but it’s all about brunch.
Why wouldn’t people want an incredible late breakfast? I find that most days that begin with brunch end up being great days.
Here’s the thing, while I love brunch, to really win the bonus points, we need to go to a proper brunch spot. A trip to Denny’s doesn’t count. The rules?
- It closes no later than 3pm (2pm is even better)
- There should be a line (I agree that I hate waiting, but when there are a group of people standing outside waiting 30-45 minutes for a late breakfast, you know it’s good)
- It needs to have a twist on popular favorites (pancakes made with vanilla beans, Eggs Benedict using smoked salmon & Capers, or hash browns that are made from freshly chopped potatoes covered in a special seasoning)
In the past few months, I’ve had several great brunch experiences with family and friends, where they’ve recommended a cool spot in whatever city I’m visiting. The food is always amazing. I do make a good breakfast when I’m home, but I love to see people who really craft a dish.
I guess my love of brunch is deeply connected to the experience. Servers at places that specialize in breakfast tend to be friendlier than the average server. They go out of their way to make the start of my day that much better. People waiting in line for a brunch seem to have a pleasant disposition as well. Sure, there are the occasional few who are frustrated that they’d have to wait for a meal, but most know that heading to such an establishment will require time. The meal becomes an event. You put your name on the list, and then go grab a morning coffee or visit the nearby farmers market. Often times you’re climbing into a table even before it has been cleared off from the previous group. Your patience is rewarded with a tasty meal.
So why am I writing all of this? What’s the point?
I think we need to work to make “brunch” happen in our lives.
Have you created a reason for people to get up?
Have you created a reason for people to wait?
Do you allow opportunities for people to connect?
Are you approaching life with patience?
Are you taking the time to make simple moments into events?
Food for thought (no pun intended).
And seriously, if I’m ever in your city, let me know if we can grab a good brunch.