Did you know that our local hipster hideaway, Cafeina, is now offering Brunch & Bazaar Sundays? Neither did we, so we felt it was our obligation to investigate. Thankfully some kind restaurant reps offered to treat us to a meal there a few Sundays ago, so now we can report the facts:
The place is pretty empty at 11 a.m., when the brunch begins, so arrive then if you want primo seating. By around noon you'll be lucky to get a choice of inside or outside.
The pitcher of Cute Cumber we split was delicious. With gin, St. Germain, lime juice and simple syrup ($35 pitcher), it's a refreshing break from a mojito and much stiffer than a mimosa. Cafeina is known for its unique cocktails, so be brave and try a few. The blueberry ginger bellini and Wake Up cocktail with Campari also sounded yummy. Or guests can take advantage of a 2-hour open bar, unlimited, for $30 per person. Juices, smoothies, and coffee drinks were offered, too.
We didn't wait long for our meals, which are all served a la carte. Guests can choose from the "Hangover" or "Conscious" menu, which pretty much translates to "Full-on" or "Diet." Since the Conscious menu offered things like fruit salad, Greek yogurt, and shrimp ceviche, we went to the dark side and ordered the Cafeina grilled burger: Angus beef, caramelized shallots and a fried egg on a brioche, served with fries. It would be well worth the $9. I encouraged my guests to order the signature crabcake, too, but they weren't blown away by the selection, especially since it was priced at $14.
The most expensive item was a $30 ribeye, yet the average plate is about $12 on that side of the menu. The Conscious side items top out at $10. Even pets can partake, too: Cafeina offers them chicken and veggies or oatmeal cranberry biscuits for $3.
While guests wait for their meals, or if they want to digest slowly before leaving, they can browse the bazaar. Expect about a half-dozen tables with local vendors hawking everything from clothes and jewelry to locally made honey.
B&B Sunday is a great way to spend a lazy Sunday morning, especially if you want to get your eat, drink, and shop on simultaneously.
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