Reliable orders
If you want savory
- Eggs Benedict or Florentine – Classic, feels special, good balance of fat + protein + carbs.
- Shakshuka – Eggs baked in tomato sauce; great with bread, flavorful without being heavy-fried.
- Avocado toast with egg – Light(ish) but still satisfying, especially with good bread.
- Breakfast plate – Eggs, toast, potatoes, plus one protein. Ask for one main protein, not three.
If you want sweet
- Pancakes with berries – Split with the table if you don’t want a sugar bomb.
- French toast – Great as a shared “dessert” brunch plate.
- Waffles with fruit – Pair with coffee and maybe steal a bite of someone’s eggs.
Easy decision tree
- Craving savory → eggs benedict, shakshuka, or a simple egg plate.
- Craving sweet → share pancakes/french toast + order a small savory side (like scrambled eggs or a sausage) so you don’t crash.
- Don’t know → avocado toast with egg + one coffee; add a small shared sweet plate.
What to ask
-
“How big is this portion?”
Brunch portions can be huge. If it sounds enormous, offer to split. -
“Is this more on the sweet side or balanced?”
Some pancakes/french toast come drenched in syrup and sauces. -
“Can I get the sauce on the side?”
Especially for benedict (hollandaise) or very sauced dishes. -
“Can we put this in the middle to share?”
Great for a sweet plate; lets everyone taste without committing.
Sample game plans
Light but happy
- Avocado toast with egg
- Coffee or tea
Classic brunch
- Eggs benedict
- Side of greens or light salad if they offer it
- Share one sweet plate (pancakes or french toast) with the table
Full comfort
- Shakshuka or hearty breakfast plate
- Shared pancakes or waffles
Skip or rethink if…
-
You’re ordering a giant sweet main + potatoes + heavy sides and you still have a big day ahead.
→ Drop one heavy thing and add a lighter side (greens, fruit, or simple eggs). -
You’re sensitive to rich sauces and still going for extra hollandaise and cream coffee drinks.
→ Get sauce on the side, pick black coffee or a simpler drink. -
You’re about to drink a lot and haven’t ordered any real food.
→ Get at least one protein‑heavy plate for the table.