Is it just me, or does brunch carry an essence of something special? Unlike breakfast or lunch, brunch is more than just a meal. The thought of brunch conjures up a general feeling of relaxation. Brunch has the air of being social and cheerful, a time to catch up with friends and family. Perhaps it’s simply the fact that you can order eggs past the traditional breakfast hour, but brunch certainly gives me that special celebration feeling. If you enjoy eggs benedict and waffles well into the afternoon hours, you’ll want to visit some of the best brunch places in Simcoe County.
UP SCALE Brunch Spots
If you’re in the mood for more than simple eggs and bacon, check out these two brunch hot spots that are sure to be Instagram-worthy.
Urban Dish Grill & Wine Bar
367 Yonge St, Barrie
If you’re looking for a laid-back fine dining atmosphere for Sunday brunch, Urban Dish is a great choice. Located on Yonge Street, close to the water and downtown, Urban Dish has a beautiful patio as well as an onsite garden where chefs pick fresh veggies and herbs for your meals.
The Common Stove in Orillia
27 Mississaga St W, Orillia
Built around a wood-fired grill, The Common Stove is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up locally sourced meats and vegetables.
Family Friendly Brunch Spots
Brunching with kids in tow means finding a place that’s delicious, casual, and has some kid-favourites on the menu — because we’ve yet to meet a child under 10 that will eat eggs benedict.
The Sunset Grill
Various locations in Barrie, Innisfil, and Orillia)
Famous for their all-day breakfast, Sunset Grill favourites include bacon and eggs, breakfast sandwiches, omelettes, pancakes, waffles, and more. Their kids’ menu includes French toast, pancakes, and even grilled cheese for those kids who aren’t into eating breakfast past noon.
Stackers Pancake House
727 William St #1, Midland
This family-friendly restaurant serves up all-day breakfast, including pancakes, waffles, omelettes, and homefries. All items are prepared in-house and made with fresh, unprocessed, and quality ingredients.
Mom’s Restaurant
200 Pillsbury Dr, Midland
Take a seat by Mom’s fireplace and catch up with friends and family over a classic brunch. Mom’s has become a weekend ritual for many locals, and has become famous for their perfectly poached Eggs Benedict finished with a light and lemony Hollandaise sauce.
Jack’s Pancake Factory
222 Mapleview Dr. W #7, Barrie
Known for their freshly brewed coffee and the fluffiest of pancakes, Jack’s Pancake Factory is a family favourite brunch destination.
Brunch Spots for Foodies
If you’re looking for something a little extra special, these breakfast restaurants don’t disappoint. We’ve rounded up some fabulous restaurants with gluten-free and vegan options that are a must-visit for foodies.
Dunlop St Diner
20 Dunlop St E, Barrie
Well known for their brunch dishes including creative Eggs Benedicts and one-of-a-kind skillets, Dunlop St Diner uses locally-sourced ingredients, serving up delicious food in a casual atmosphere.
Homestead Artisan Bakery & Cafe
80 Dunlop St E, Barrie
This local bakery specializes in long ferment sourdough breads and baked goods, crafted by hand in small batches using locally milled flours. They offer brunch every weekend.
Bakes by the Lake, Orillia
178 Mississaga St E, Orillia
This adorable spot is owned by a mother and son team, Nancy and Colton McIsaac, who began selling gluten and dairy-free baked goods at Orillia’s Farmers Market. Today, they are a full-service bakery and cafe serving up quality gluten-free, vegan products, including freshly baked bread, and they host a delicious Sunday brunch.
