By Kelly Rouse
It’s spring in St. Pete! The weather is lovely and it’s the perfect season for brunching! Brunch is a combination of breakfast and lunch, and it’s typically served between 10am and 2pm. The word “brunch” – that playful blend of “breakfast” and “lunch” first appeared in print in an 1895 Hunter’s Weekly article. In “Brunch: A Plea,” British author Guy Beringer suggested an alternative to the heavy, post-church Sunday meals in favor of lighter fare served late in the morning. ‘’Brunch is cheerful, sociable and inciting,’’ Beringer said. ‘’It is talk-compelling. It puts you in a good temper, it makes you satisfied with yourself and your fellow beings, it sweeps away the worries and cobwebs of the week.’’ Well said, Mr. Beringer. So, make time to enjoy brunch with your friends and family and gather for a good meal – and perhaps some spirits – at one of these fine establishments.
UPTOWN EATS
Nestled in historic uptown on Dr. M.L.K. Jr St North, Uptown Eats has quickly become a cherished spot for breakfast enthusiasts in St. Pete. This cozy café, recognized as #21 on Yelp’s top 100 restaurants in the country in 2023, offers a delightful mix of house-made pastries, savory sandwiches, delicious bowls, and locally roasted coffee. A standout item is the Jam on It sandwich, featuring a fried egg, Gouda, spinach, Canadian bacon, and a unique raspberry jam infused with black pepper, honey, and lemon, tucked within a grilled brioche bun. Another favorite is the Uptown Bowl, combining a fried egg, collard greens, bacon, tomatoes, and cotija cheese over roasted potatoes. The café has both indoor and outdoor seating, with the latter being particularly popular among guests. With its delectable dishes and comfortable setting, Uptown Eats stands out as a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors seeking a pleasurable and tasty brunch outing.
Mon. 7am- 12pm | Closed Tues. | Wed.- Fri. 7am-2pm | Sat.- Sun. 8am-2pm
www.uptowneatsstpete.com
THE LIBRARY
The Library, as suggested by their name, blends a literary-inspired atmosphere with culinary excellence. Located within Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, this establishment draws inspiration from the George Peabody Library (Johns Hopkins and his close friend George Peabody believed in the power and importance of education, and both were committed to using their wealth for the public good). The Library’s brunch menu has many tempting offerings, among them: a braised beef cheek benedict, the French toast stack with warm Nutella, and maple Snickerdoodle pancakes. The avocado deviled eggs are a highlight on the sharables menu and they have terrific salads and sandwich options as well. The staff is friendly and attentive. In addition to the indoor dining, there is outdoor seating that welcomes dogs on a leash. The Library successfully captures the essence of a quintessential brunch spot in St. Pete.
Mon.- Thurs. 9am- 9pm | Fri.- Sat. 9am- 10pm | Sun. 9am- 4pm
www.thelibrarystpete.com
THE URBAN STILLHOUSE
Located at 2232 Fifth Ave. S, The Urban Stillhouse offers a unique brunch that artfully combines refined American cuisine with a warm, rustic ambiance reminiscent of an upscale lodge or chalet. The interior features leather sofas, wood-burning fireplaces, and copper stills, creating a welcoming, yet sophisticated, environment. The brunch menu at The Urban Stillhouse includes a variety of thoughtfully crafted dishes. A standout item is Koko’s Biscuits and Gravy, praised for its rich flavors. The lobster frittata and red velvet waffle are also excellent. In addition to their premium in-house crafted Horse Soldier Bourbon, The Urban Stillhouse offers a selection of fantastic cocktails that complement any meal perfectly. The chefs emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring each dish is both flavorful and satisfying and the selections are updated seasonally. The servers are well-versed in the menu, providing insightful recommendations and ensuring a seamless dining experience. The Urban Stillhouse is reservation-only for all dining, including bar seating. The countertop seating upstairs and the lounge are available for walk-ins on a first come, first served basis. For an exceptional experience, treat yourself to a meal that will make memories at The Urban Stillhouse.
Mon.- Tues. closed | Wed.- Sat. 5pm-10pm | Sun. 11am- 2pm
www.theurbanstillhouse.com