Brunching Around Boston
by Juliana Rodriguez
Photography courtesy of Julia Smithing
With school back in session, everyone is looking for their cure to the Sunday morning blues: brunch. Boston, home to over 35 colleges and universities, has its fair share of brunch options that fit even the tightest of college budgets. Whether one is looking for something savory or sweet, Boston has the perfect place.
“I love brunch. It is the perfect cure for a bad mood,” said Isabella Civitarese (CAS ’21).
Trident Booksellers and Cafe is perfect for those looking for somewhere cute and quaint. This Newbury favorite is not just a place to satisfy breakfast cravings, but it also doubles as a bookstore. Their menu ranges from unique lemon ricotta stuffed French toast to the simplest of egg dishes. A wide range of brunch options means that they truly have something for everyone—even vegans. The prices range from $7.95-$15.95, so it is safe to say that they are broke-college-student approved.
Another BU favorite is Tatte Bakery. It is a short, ten-minute walk from South Campus, so one is sure to bump into classmates while on a weekend run to the bakery. Their menu strays away from the typical brunch menu and offers an assortment of dishes that appease both picky and adventurous eaters.
“Tatte is so cute and has a good Instagram aesthetic. Their avocado tartine is also really good,” said Maddy Dalton (COM ’21).
In addition to tasty brunch dishes, they also have a wide variety of coffee and tea products. Do not worry about waking up early for brunch—Tatte serves brunch all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday. With prices ranging from $5.50-$15.50 and a whole section on the menu dedicated to toast, Tatte is a must.
For somewhere a bit more under the radar, try Martin’s Coffee Shop. This hidden treasure is located in Brookline and has an extremely extensive menu. They have everything from nine types of eggs benedict to eight types of French toast and virtually everything in-between.
To get a better idea of their food, check their Twitter account @MartinsBrooklin, which is updated regularly. Since Martin’s is relatively unknown to college students, there is no long wait during the weekends. Martin’s also delivers, so making the trek to Brookline is not always necessary.
“I like to order Martin’s on the weekends when I’m too lazy to get out of bed and need good food,” said Jerry Wang (CAS ’21).
Another local favorite is Johnny’s Luncheonette. Since it is about a 35-minute drive away from East Campus, going there may be a bit of a trip, but Johnny’s food is worth it. When one walks into the restaurant, one is transported to a world filled with diner benches and neon signs. Make sure to go on an empty stomach; their portions are massive. If that is not tempting enough, they also serve breakfast all-day long.
Mike’s City Diner is also perfect for broke college students. This South End diner is anything but normal. Their menu includes two dishes named “Emergency Room” and “Intensive Care.” If that seems intimidating, there are simple plates as well. With brunch specials priced at $13.95 and below, this restaurant will not break the bank. Mike’s appeared on the TV show Diners, Drive-Inns and Dives, so their food is also Guy Fieri-approved.
From quaint bakeries to quirky diners, there is a Boston brunch place that satisfies everyone’s taste and budget.