Where to Get Brunch in Center City, Old City and Washington Square

Mixto turns every Sunday into a celebration -Photo: VisitPhilly

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PhillyBite10Philadelphia, PA -Center City East, Old City & Washington Square West, are the hottest brunch spots in Philly. Forget white toast and greasy hash browns; these Best-of-Philly brunch menus are creating exciting flavors into our favorite meal of the week, Brunch!.


Old City: Sophistication Meets History

Old City offers a blend of historic charm and some of Philadelphia's most established culinary landmarks.

  • Fork: A pioneer of the Philadelphia dining scene, Fork offers a sophisticated, contemporary American brunch. It’s the perfect spot for a "grown-up" brunch featuring seasonal omelets, house-made pastries, and an elegant atmosphere.



  • The Plough and the Stars: For a more relaxed, classic feel, this Irish pub serves a hearty brunch in a grand, high-ceilinged space. It’s a local favorite for its "fry-ups" and welcoming, no-fuss environment.

  • Revolution House: Famous for its stunning rooftop deck overlooking 2nd and Market Streets, this is the place to be on a sunny day. Their menu features elevated comfort food like breakfast pizzas and creative Benedicts.



Washington Square & Midtown Village: Cozy and Creative

This area is known for its intimate parks and some of the city's most "Instagrammable" places.

  • Talula’s Garden: Widely considered one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city, Talula’s offers a high-end farm-to-table experience. If the weather is nice, ask for a seat in the lush, ivy-covered outdoor garden.



  • Green Eggs Café: Be prepared to wait—and be prepared for massive portions. This Midtown Village staple is famous for its over-the-top creations like Crème Brûlée French Toast and the "Kitchen Sink" skillet. Note: They are cash-only.

  • Bud & Marilyn’s: Located at the corner of 13th and Locust, this retro-inspired spot serves up "fun-dining" comfort food. Their hot chicken and waffles and pecan-praline French toast are legendary.

  • Winkel: A hidden gem on Locust Street, Winkel specializes in Northern European-inspired brunch. Expect unique dishes like Dutch "Uitsmijter" (open-faced sandwiches) and incredible smoked fish platters.

Center City & Rittenhouse: The Power Brunch

If you want to see and be seen, or simply enjoy a Parisian-style morning, head toward Rittenhouse Square.

  • Parc: No Philadelphia brunch list is complete without Parc. This French brasserie is the busiest spot in town. Sit outside for world-class people-watching and enjoy a perfect croque madame or a fresh basket of artisanal pastries.

  • The Love: Just steps from the square, Aimee Olexy’s The Love offers a bright, airy space and a menu that focuses on high-quality local ingredients. Don't skip the "Take Me Away" biscuits with honey butter.

  • Harp & Crown: For a unique vibe, Harp & Crown offers a massive, high-ceilinged space with "vintage-chic" decor. On Saturdays and Sundays, they feature an extensive, high-quality brunch buffet.

  • a.kitchen + bar: If you prefer a more minimalist, modern aesthetic, a.kitchen offers an incredible wine list and a refined menu that frequently lands on "Best of Philly" lists.


Pro Tips for a Philly Brunch:

  • Reservations: For heavy hitters like Parc, Talula’s Garden, and The Love, try to book at least a week in advance via popular booking apps.

  • The "Wait List": Spots like Green Eggs Café don't take reservations. If you're going on a Sunday at 11:00 a.m., expect a 45–60 minute wait.

  • BYOB: While many of these spots have full bars, Philadelphia has a strong BYOB culture. Check the restaurant's website beforehand; if it's a BYOB, you can bring your own bottle of prosecco for tableside mimosas!