Houston’s Brunch Scene Just Got a Whole Lot More Interesting
Houston’s weekend routine has just gotten a major boost with the introduction of new and exciting brunch options. From Peruvian-Vietnamese fusion to Mediterranean feasts, and from seafood spreads to globally-inspired eats, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
New Brunch Spots to Check Out
Several new restaurants have recently opened their doors, offering unique and delicious brunch experiences. These include Alora Restaurant and Bar, Chardon, il Bracco, Maximo, Melrose, MF Lobster and Seafood, Okto, Relish Restaurant and Bar, Santé Lounge, and Traveler’s Cart.
Alora Restaurant and Bar
Located in the former Kau Ba space in Montrose, Alora Restaurant and Bar is Houston’s only Peruvian-Vietnamese restaurant. Their brunch menu features dishes such as Lima Hot Chicken, Pandan French Toast, and Bò Né, a Vietnamese twist on steak and eggs. Beverages include the Alora Bloody Mary, made with pickled quail eggs and green mango.
Chardon
The Thompson Hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Chardon, has launched a weekend brunch menu that transports diners to France. Classics like Quiche Lorraine and Croque Monsieur sit alongside creations such as Lox et Crêpe and Avocado and Haricot Vert Tartine. A violinist sets the mood with soft music, making for a sophisticated brunch experience.
il Bracco
This Galleria-area Italian spot has upgraded its weekend offerings with new bites such as housemade pastries, bucatini carbonara, and shakshuka alla verde. Pair these with a mimosa, espresso martini, or breakfast martini for a delicious and indulgent brunch.
Maximo
Maximo’s weekend brunch offers a range of masa-based dishes, including egg Benedict with masa cornbread, cinnamon-sugar coated masa waffles, and huevos ahogados drowned in green tomatillo salsa. Cocktails such as the Java-Horchata Flip and Sangria Tango complement the meal perfectly.
Melrose
Created by CultureMap Tastemaker Awards Chef of the Year Emmanuel Chavez, Melrose serves clever riffs on enduring brunch favorites. Options include charred tomatillo chilaquiles, acai bowl, hanger steak with eggs and chimichurri, and a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs, cheese, and brown sugar-roasted "billionaire’s bacon".
MF Lobster and Seafood
This Autry Park destination aims to elevate Houston’s brunch offerings with dishes such as Benedicts made with lobster, braised bacon, pork belly, or classic Canadian bacon. Other highlights include wagyu steak and eggs, buttery Maine lobster popovers, and bagels and lox featuring Ora King salmon and roe.
Okto
Sof Hospitality’s Mediterranean restaurant kicks off Sunday with a late-morning feast of fresh flavors such as pan con tomate salad, beet-cured lox, and omelet with blue crab and mascarpone. The spacious patio and ample underground parking make it an ideal spot for a relaxing brunch.
Relish Restaurant and Bar
The second outpost of this River Oaks staple has added brunch to its repertoire, featuring dishes such as flaky herb biscuits, buttermilk pancakes, and salmon citrus salad. The Italian baked eggs in pomodoro sauce with Italian sausage and grilled sourdough are a highlight of the menu.
Santé Lounge
The Upper Kirby lounge’s patio is a destination for the posh set, with an elevated twist on classics like Dubai chocolate croissants, grilled-to-order Santé burger, and a platter laden with five chilled seafood preparations. A live DJ spins tunes while patrons relax on the patio with its cabanas, chandeliers, and greenery.
Traveler’s Cart
The Street Market Brunch is an international affair with dishes such as cinnamon-dusted Morning Churros, Chinese breakfast dumplings, and charming fish-shaped Japanese taiyaki waffles. The global tour continues at the bar with "around-the-world" mimosas, a build-your-own Bloody Mary cart, and Don’t Stop the Carnival, a punchy Brazilian coffee cocktail.
Conclusion
Houston’s brunch scene has never been more exciting, with a diverse range of new and established restaurants offering unique and delicious experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for Peruvian-Vietnamese fusion, Mediterranean feasts, or seafood spreads, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So why not gather your friends and family and get ready to indulge in a weekend brunch like no other? With so many amazing options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to suit your taste and style.
