Brunching on Florida’s Historic Coast
Brunch is a leisurely meal that can only happen on a weekend. Top off your weekend dining at any, or all, of these brunch spots.
Vernon’s First Coast Kitchen
Sunday brunch is a sumptuous affair at Vernon's First Coast Kitchen at Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa. Set against a serene backdrop of live oaks and lagoons, Vernon’s farm to table brunch selections are unforgettable. Snack on tater-tot nachos or a breakfast hand pie stuffed with smoked gouda. Order a pastry board piled with sweet and savory treats for the table. Dietary restrictions? Not to worry, there are ample gluten-free and vegetarian options.
The Reef
Enjoy a seagull’s view brunch at the beachfront Reef Restaurant in Vilano Beach, where you can find ocean views at every turn. Offered exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays, brunch ranges from prime rib benedict with house-made hollandaise to waffle stacks and Southern style biscuits and gravy. A glass of bubbly arrives with every entrée, and there’s a full bar, with brunch drink specials after 1 p.m.
Sunday Gathering Table
Brunch isn’t isolated to a single day at Sunday, but, rather, is a state of mind. Try the vegetarian-friendly avocado toast on a plank of sourdough topped with greens and olive oil or order toast topped with roasted shiitake and goat cheese. There’s Nueskes bacon and eggs on toast and shakshuka: a tomato, feta, and egg skillet.
The Roosevelt Room
By the owners of Prohibition Kitchen next door, the Roosevelt is a swanky brunch spot, with huge crystal chandeliers and a dramatic staircase. The brunch menu has a Southern accent, offering plates like gumbo and beignets, shrimp and grits, and a crawfish and tasso omelet, tipping a hat to Cajun country. Their creamy stone ground grits can’t be missed.
The Blue Hen
This Lincolnville staple wraps visitors in homespun charm. Locals rave about The Blue Hen's homemade biscuits, whether they are stuffed with fried chicken, sausage gravy, or peach butter. Add sliced avocado to the breakfast burrito, served with black beans, crispy potatoes, and cheesy eggs. The blue crab quiche, laced with Swiss, arrives with house-pickled cucumbers, and a biscuit on the side.
O.C. Whites Seafood & Spirits
Mimosas by the glass or carafe bode well for a lively Sunday brunch at O.C. White’s, a historic - and supposedly haunted - downtown building dating back to 1790. Take a seat and enjoy a compact menu featuring the “king’s breakfast”: eggs, bacon, and one over-sized blueberry pancake. Or, dine like a “queen”, a plate filled with bacon, eggs, and a Belgian waffle.
The Original Café Eleven
For the hungry, the weekend breakfast buffet at Café Eleven is a joyful tradition. This former seedy convenience store is now a modern, airy restaurant and music venue, steps from the beach. Bargain-priced at $13.95 for adults and $8.95 for children aged three to twelve, the food is fresh, hot, and never runs out. Find classics like pancakes, bagels, French toast, bacon, sausage, and venture into made-to-order omelets. Add half price sangria and mimosas, and brunch doesn’t get much better.
The Raintree Restaurant
Shoppers heading uptown to San Marco Avenue should always make time for brunch at Raintree, a stately Colonial Victorian dating back to 1897. Start with a substantial Bloody Mary, adorned with shrimp and bacon, and move onto eggs Benedict, surf and turf, or the everything strata: an egg and cheese 80’s throwback.
Ancient City Brunch Bar
Discover Ancient City Brunch Bar in St. Augustine – your go-to spot for mouthwatering brunch boards. Enjoy a variety of treats, from pastries to French toast sticks, served on rustic wooden platters. Indulge in egg sandwiches, a brunch burger, or tasty vegetarian options, either individually or for the table. A delightful brunch experience awaits!
A1A Beachside Diner
After a climb to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse, head to this sweet spot for brunch just a few miles down the road. A1A Beachside Diner offers a combination of great eggs Benedict, friendly service, and reasonable prices makes this place a favorite among tourists and locals alike. The corned beef hash comes highly recommended, but anything from the breakfast handhelds section of the menu is sure to please. Breakfast is served all day, with beverage options ranging from a Bloody Mary to a milkshake.
1912 Ocean Bar & Rooftop
Enjoy Sunday Brunch at Sawgrass Marriott’s 1912 Ocean Bar & Rooftop taking in the ocean breeze and beautiful morning weather rooftop, on the porch, or the dining room boasting floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the Atlantic. From 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sawgrass Marriott’s chefs prepare a delightful menu featuring 1912 Benedict, Mochi Pancakes, Tortilla de Patatas, Adobo Braised Chicken with Garlic Oil Toasted Brioche, Avocado Tartine and more.