Sometimes you want to avoid the crowds, the woo-girls and the brunch scenesters. A) You’ll want to get to brunch earlier than 11 for most any restaurant these days, so I hope you’re an early riser, and B) you’ll want to check out these (mostly) low-key joints that deliver warm coffee, tasty toast and over-easy eggs.
1221 Broadway, Suite 116, (210) 251-3184
Brunch is served Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.
For a fairly new brunch, GS 1221’s vibes are still relatively tame even considering the vinyl tunes being spun by local DJs. Recent specials for the noon to 4 p.m. brunch included pastrami hash, pulled pork chilaquiles and stout waffles all reasonable priced under $10.
2211 NW Military Hwy., #131, (210) 209-3463
Brunch is served Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
For a brunch that feels more like home, check out Malinalli Bakery & Bistro, a family-owned, authentic spot where Mexican flair prevails. From tortas to fair trade, organic Mexican coffee, this friendly locale is the place for the best of casual brunching.
1011 Donaldson Ave., (210) 785-9007
Brunch is served Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
In addition to great prices, Pancake Joe’s great food make this hidden gem a place to be on Saturday mornings. With brunch meals ranging from pineapple upside-down pancakes to spinach eggs Benedict to chorizo omelettes, there’s something for everyone.
The Fairview Coffee Bar & Grub
3428 N. St. Mary’s St., (210) 731-8009
Brunch is served Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The bulk of brunch at The Fairview Coffee Bar & Grub is made in-house, supporting what husband and wife owners call the “tiny shop movement.” With an in-house baking program, vanilla bean waffles and buttermilk square biscuits (try them SA-Style with chorizo gravy and avocado) are bound to impress.
Commonwealth Coffeehouse & Bakery
118 Davis Ct., (210) 560-2955
Brunch is served Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Authentic French pastries and the finest coffee are what to look forward to at Commonwealth. Brunch options include a variety of crepes and waffles all for under $10, perfect for a calm Saturday morning.
3011 N. St. Mary’s St., (210) 738-0099
Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
A warm and cozy atmosphere awaits those who visit Candlelight Coffee House’s ideal location, and did we mention the sprawling patio. Featuring seasonal waffles and their own spin on Green Eggs and Ham, this casual spot is ideal for a meal alone or with friends. Get there early to avoid the rowdy bottomless mimosa-seeking crowd.
Madhatter’s Tea House and Café
320 Beauregard St., (210) 212-4832
Brunch is served Saturdays 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Though not always the best place for a quiet brunch, Madhatter’s Tea House and Cafe’s extensive brunch menu is definitely worth it. For everything from breakfast burritos to granola bowls and any tea imaginable, this San Antonio classic is not to be missed. Try arriving between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. to beat the crowds!
424 E. Commerce St., (210) 223-6692
Brunch is served Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
One of the oldest continuously operated restaurants in Texas, Schilo’s Delicatessen has made a name for itself with its historic roots and German influences. Streussels and pancakes alike are featured on a menu that definitely won’t break the bank.
Anne Marie’s Carriage House Bistro (SA Botanical Gardens)
555 Funston Pl., (210) 826-5800
Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For an eclectic menu that has you wondering if you’ve always been this adventurous, Anne Marie’s Carriage House Bistro is the best of fresh, flavorful food. Recent brunch specials included crepes stuffed with ham, asparagus & brie and a quiche du jour.
Crossroads Kitchen
517 E. Woodlawn Ave., (210) 257-0628
“Drunk Breakfast” is served Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Let the Southern fare wash away the previous night’s sins or just keep on drinking while chill-rock tunes waft through the air via Faust Tavern’s sound system.
This article appears in Jun 1-7, 2016.