Top 9 Brunch Spots in Boston You Need to Check Out

Who doesn’t love a good brunch outing with friends? Whether you are an avid mimosa fan or you’re just craving a fresh plate of eggs benedict, you can easily find a top-tier brunch spot in Boston to satisfy your needs. Boston has a wide range of restaurants at your disposal, from family-run cafes to modern New American eateries. Need help finding a spot that suits both your tastes and budget? We’ve got you covered. Check out our list of the top 9 brunch spots in Boston now!

Want to give your loved ones the gift of a delicious brunch in the historic city of Boston? Surprise them with a virtual GiftYa card! In just a few minutes, you can send your friend a GiftYa card to one of the top brunch spots in Boston. Upon receiving it, they can then upload the e-card to their debit card. There are hundreds of GiftYa cards available for different restaurants around the city, including some of the ones we featured below. What are you waiting for? Purchase one today!

1. Sonsie

Classy American bistro that looks out onto Newbury Street

327 Newbury St | Back Bay | sonsieboston.com

Starting off our list is Sonsie! Located along the famous Newbury Street, Sonsie offers a cozy and intimate environment for its guests. On warm days, the cafe opens its floor-to-ceiling front windows to the bustling sidewalk so guests can people watch and admire the busy neighborhood around them. 

Sonsie offers an eclectic selection of brunch specialties, such as the Smoked Salmon Benedict, Bananas Foster French Toast, and Avocado Toast. Light salads and pizzas are also served during brunch. Brunch cocktails and signature coffees are also available to enjoy alongside your meal. Our favorite drinks include the Nitro Cold Brew, Espresso Martini, and Spicy Bloody Mary. Bottoms up!

“I came here for brunch and was seated quickly. I ordered the salmon eggs Benedict and I think it was one of the best I've ever had!! The eggs were fresh, bright orange, and perfectly cooked. The potatoes were delicious too. Great cappuccinos. The service was quick and good! I will definitely come back!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Sonsie. 

2. Alden & Harlow

Subterranean restaurant that offers a modern, rustic space for guests

40 Brattle St | Harvard Square | aldenharlow.com

Next up, you’ll want to check out Alden & Harlow’s chic, rustic digs. Brunch is served here on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30am to 2:30pm. Located in Harvard Square, Alden & Harlow serves fresh and flavorful New American dishes inside a spacious subterranean dining room. They also have a patio available for warm, sunny days! 

For brunch, you will be presented with a wide selection of mouthwatering entrees and dishes to choose from. Some of our favorite plates include the NY Strip Steak & Eggs Benedict, Focaccia Egg Sandwich, and Black Pepper Carbonara. Cocktails like the A&H Bloody Mary and Vernal Equinox are, of course, available as well. 

“Food was amazing, so much flavor and color and was presented very beautifully. The service was also great. I was served by Katy and Victor. Best service I've had in a while! They were very friendly and took their time to ask me how my food was and chat with me. Lovely people working here. Good vibes at Alden & Harlow. Will be coming back.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Alden & Harlow.

3. The Friendly Toast

Hip and quirky diner that serves breakfast all day, every day along with a full drink menu

35 Stanhope St | Back Bay | thefriendlytoast.com 

The Friendly Toast is the perfect spot for a morning pick-me-up. With its fun, colorful decor, friendly service, and delicious food, The Friendly Toast is sure to put a smile on your face. 

As if things couldn’t get any better, The Friendly Toast offers an all-day brunch and bar menu! Some of their signature brunch dishes include the Monster Breakfast, Meg’s Americano Burrito, and Doughnut Stop Believin’. In case you were curious, the Doughnut Stop Believin’ breakfast sandwich is served on French toasted donuts with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheddar cheese. Wow! 

Most brunch spots offer mimosas and Bloody Marys. The Friendly Toast takes it further by offering a unique selection of different mimosa and Bloody Mary flavors like the Lavender Lemonade Mimosa and the Pickle Bloody Mary. Can’t decide on just one flavor? Order a flight!  

“Yeah, you're gonna wait a bit —especially during peak brunch times (we waited 2+ hours). But you can't get a better brunch option in Boston. Tons of great menu choices for both the sweet and savory lovers plus plenty of mimosa and bloody options as well! The ambience is best described as fun and quirky with all sorts of bizarre nostalgia adorning they walls.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for The Friendly Toast. 

4. Saltie Girl

Popular seafood restaurant and raw bar located in the Back Bay area

279 Dartmouth St | Back Bay | saltiegirl.com

Saltie Girl is the ultimate seafood lover’s destination. Along with a full raw bar, Saltie Girl offers fun and innovative seafood dishes that will make your mouth water. From the Fried Lobster and Waffles to the Fried Whole Belly Ipswich Clams, Saltie Girl has something for everyone. 

Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm. Some of their brunch specials include the French Rolled Omelette, Saltie Girl Benedict, and Steak & Eggs. Brunch cocktails include the Saltie Girl Bloody Mary, Kate’s Screwdriver, Irish Coffee, and Mimosa Bar! The brunch menu also boasts impressive seafood creations like the Petite Seafood Tower, Pacific Salmon Roe Caviar, and New York Style Smoked Fish Plates. Yum!

“What I wouldn't give to snap my fingers and be back here at brunch! Everything we ordered outdid the last thing we had just eaten (and boy did we order a lot), from the roasted acorn squash, to the oysters and the pastrami smoked lox and bagel, and beyond.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Saltie Girl. 

5. Mike & Patty’s

Charming sandwich shop that has been featured on numerous shows throughout the years for its innovative creations

12 Church St | Tremont St & Fayette St | mikeandpattys.com

Not only is it a great brunch spot, but Mike & Patty’s is also one of the best sandwich shops in Boston. Over the years, it has been featured on shows like NECN’S TV Diner, WCVB's The Chronicle, and Phantom Gourmet. It has also placed on Thrillist’s shortlist for Best Breakfast Sandwiches in the USA and Foursquare’s Highest Rated Breakfast Sandwich in the USA. 

All of the ingredients in the sandwiches are locally-sourced from New England farms and vendors. These high-quality ingredients then come together to make delicious sandwiches like the Squashed Beef, Carolina Caviar, and Breakfast Burrito. Ready to try a sandwich for yourself? Check out Mike & Patty’s full menu now!

“Friend and I ordered the fancy and grilled crack. Both were simply delicious, but I liked the fancy more because it was lighter. Avocado worked well to balance the cheese/bacon and eggs. I usually don't like mayo, but something about their mayo just works, maybe it's not mayo.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Mike & Patty’s. 

6. Parker’s Restaurant

Upscale restaurant located inside the Parker House Hotel

60 School St | Downtown Boston | omnihotels.com

Looking to dress up a little for brunch? Parker’s Restaurant is the perfect spot for hosting a fancy, upscale brunch with friends. Located inside the Parker House Hotel, it’s a great spot for those visiting Boston from out of town. 

On the menu, you’ll find savory meals like the Traditional Eggs Benedict, Parkers Omelet, and Acai Bowl. A kids menu is also available, and features classic breakfast favorites like french toast and pancakes. Eat up!

“I ordered the lobster and it was so delicious! And the parker house rolls! AMAZING. I want to eat a roll with every meal from now on. The Boston cream pie was also delicious. Soft and cakey and rich from the chocolate. The Boston cream pie ice cream was also a winner. Definitely come here when visiting Boston!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Parker’s Restaurant. 

7. Beehive Restaurant

Popular bohemian eatery and bar that regularly hosts live music

541 Tremont St | South End | beehiveboston.com

Beehive offers fun, upbeat vibes inside an artsy, bohemian dining space. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long week. On the brunch menu, you’ll find savory entrees like the Corned Beef Hash, Baked French Toast, and Farm Vegetable & Cheese Frittata. Thirsty? Beehive has a full drink menu filled with cocktails, beer, and wine. 

Beehive also hosts live music acts on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights and during Sunday brunch. You’ll find performers of jazz, R&B, electronica, country, and even burlesque here! Make sure you check out their calendar to see who their upcoming acts are! 

“What a treat! This place has the greatest combination: cute jazzy vibes, delicious food, great cocktails, and friendly staff! Would definitely recommend it for brunch or dinner! Definitely coming back!” - Yelp Review

8. South End Buttery 

Quaint bakery and coffee shop that is known for its baked goods, sandwiches, and breakfast entrees

314 Shawmut Ave | South End | southendbuttery.com

South End Buttery is located in the heart of the historic South End neighborhood. The cafe is surrounded by popular retail shops, making it a great spot for a quick morning pick-me-up or a refreshing meal after a long day of shopping.

The cafe offers savory breakfast entrees like the Smoked Salmon Bagel, Breakfast Burrito, and Avocado Toast. If you’re looking for something light and filling, you can try a dish under the “Healthy Starts” section like the Yogurt Parfait or Oatmeal Terrine. 

There’s also a restaurant and bar menu that features sandwiches, burgers, pancakes, french toast, and salads for brunch. Wine, beer, and brunch cocktails can also be found! This menu is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 3pm. 

“A cute neighborhood bakery tucked in the heart of the South End, it's a great place to grab a bite after a stroll if you're in the area. I think the croissant is pretty good and had the layered butter in between that makes a croissant flaky and rich with flavor. Try this place out if you're on the fence!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for South End Buttery. 

9. Lucy’s American Tavern

Neighborhood restaurant and bar located in the nearby Dorchester, MA

13 Granite Ave | Dorchester | lucysamericantavern.com

Lucy’s American Tavern features a seasonal menu consisting of fresh, modern comfort dishes. Over 50 draughts and bottles can be found on the tavern’s extensive beer list. Their seasonal wines and cocktails are also popular among guests. 

For weekend brunch, Lucy’s American Tavern serves savory concoctions like Breakfast Egg Rolls, Street Corn Avocado Toast, and Breakfast Corn Dogs. Some of their specialty drinks include the Adult Iced Coffee, Cold Brew Nitro, and Executive Mimosa. Yum!

“I get the appeal – the food was solid, the service notably friendly, and the overall vibe was very fun and happening while being quiet enough to hold a conversation without raising your voice. Glad I finally made it out to Lucy's!” - Yelp Review

It’s been too long since you’ve been out for brunch. Luckily for you, it’s easy to find a high-quality brunch spot in Boston. Just check out this list! Which spots in our guide do you plan to visit next? Let us know!