The word ‘brunch’ kind of makes me cringe, but the actual meal… I really can’t fault it. So let me remain basic if I must because Sunday brunch is the single best meal of my week. But truly, it’s the best excuse to eat various cuisines in a single sitting, unapologetically devour desserts disguised as main courses, and drink a Bellini before midday… And it’s not only about the food, drink, and location. The company you keep is also crucial in the brunch equation and my best brunch moments are spent catching up with my family. Whoever your company may be, look no further than my ultimate eating list for a rainy, London, Sunday afternoon. You’ll also find what I always order at these particular places, but please no judgement. Sunday is my single day of indulgence I swear…
Granger & Co.
Location: Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill (Also in King’s Cross and Clerkenwell)
Cuisine: Australian
The JTO Order: Sweet corn fritters with roast tomato, spinach, and bacon – then the ricotta hotcakes as my second course/dessert
Sunday Opening Hours: 8am-10:30pm
Insider Tip: Tables are close together so if you’re private then it’s not for you, but if you’re nosy it’s perfect!
Bonus Tip: If you have a loud voice… also avoid.
34
Location: South Audley Street, Mayfair
Cuisine: Steak and Seafood Grill (They do the “Classics”)
The JTO Order: Steak Frites and a stolen bite of the Lobster Macaroni (without truffle – I loathe truffles), then the 34 Doughnuts
Sunday Opening Hours: 11:30am-10pm
Insider Tip: Don’t go in your pyjamas and appreciate the art
Trade
Location: Commercial Street, Shoreditch
Cuisine: Australian
The JTO Order: Sourdough Grilled Cheese with Chorizo and an Almond Latte
Sunday Opening Hours: 10am-5pm
Insider Tip: Go as early as possible to get a good table
Breakfast Club
Location: Many. I go to the one on D’arblay Street in Soho.
Cuisine: General Breakfast Food
The JTO Order: Fried Chicken and Waffles (doesn’t even compare to Miss Lilly’s in NYC FC&W but tasty enough for London…)
Sunday Opening Hours: 8am-7pm
Insider Tip: Go hungry/Hungover
Bao
Location: Windmill Street, Fitzrovia (Also in Soho)
Cuisine: Taiwanese
The JTO Order: Classic Bao and the Mapo Aubergine rice bowl
Sunday Opening Hours: NONE! Sorry this has to be a Saturday Brunch… from 12pm-3pm
Insider Tip: Don’t order 4-5 different like the waiter recommends, 3 will suffice