The transition into fall has led countless people to flock to restaurants to catch up with friends over mid-morning brunch. Skip the overrated spots and try these restaurants for a great morning brunch.
[divider]Partis (447 California Ave.)[/divider]
A step into Pastis’ small bistro is like transporting yourself to a quaint restaurant in the south of France. With bright, welcoming yellow walls, Pastis is perfect for a small get together before making a stop at the California Avenue farmers’ market on a lazy Sunday morning.
The waiters are extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and more than happy to let you know if there are any special additions to the menu.
In addition to its wide range of brunch staples, such as their homemade strawberry jam and cheese omelets ($11.95-$13.95), Pastis serves unique dishes like their freshly fried beignets ($13.95) doused in powdered sugar. Be sure to try their French Onion soup ($13.95); it’s possibly the best one out there. When the dish is served, the Swiss cheese gratinée on the soup is still bubbling, and mixes well with the carmelized onion.
Before heading out to Pastis, make sure to make a reservation or arrive early. The line is often out the door, especially during peak brunch hours, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Sundays.
[divider]Mademoiselle Collette (499 Lytton Ave.)[/divider]
Mademoiselle Collette is an upscale French patisserie located on the quieter side of downtown Palo Alto, on the corner of Lytton Avenue and Cowper Street.
This is the perfect brunch spot. Here you can quickly grab a pan au chocolat ($4.25) and go, or grab a latte and read the Sunday paper on slower mornings.
Mademoiselle Collette creates a simplistic yet sophisticated atmosphere with its marble counters and Diptyque candles.
This small patisserie is a new addition to the downtown scene, with a larger sister location in Menlo Park that has a larger kitchen and menu.
For coffee enthusiasts, the lattes are a must-try; they are light, foamy and not too bitter. To pair with the lattes ($4.00) and other coffee drinks, try out the Kouign Amann ($4.75). The Kouign Amann is like a crunchier, more buttery, flakier, sweeter croissant.
[divider]Tootsie’s (700 Welch Road)[/divider]
Tootsie’s is a rustic, homey little restaurant tucked behind the Stanford Mall; it’s great for a day out with the whole gang, or just a small get together with a friend.
Customers pay upfront at the counter, and the large staff size makes service quick, which allows them to accommodate large parties of eight or more. The staff is welcoming and eager to make your brunch experience as smooth as possible.
While visiting, try their variety of paninis and pastries. They have all the classic brunch dishes including pancakes, extravagant omelets and eggs on top of their unique paninis, salads, pastries and lattes.
For the baked goods, the Nutella Bomboloni is fluffy, and a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth. The paninis are especially flavorful, and are a convenient choice to take on the go.
From scrumptious lemon scones and hot chocolate to cheesy omelets, brunch with friends and family at these fantastic eateries will be a meal to remember.
