MANILA
IMPRESSIONS AT MAXIMS HOTEL RESORTS WORLD MANILA
Newport City
(02) 9088883
This has to be the ultimate place to have brunch. Most diners focus on the Prime Rib, the selections of foie gras dishes cooked a la minute, scallops, and lobsters; my personal favorite is the caviar bar complete with blinis and the rest of the accoutrements. The buffet while smaller than most hotel buffets has excellent quality dishes and includes free flowing freshly squeezed juices.
SALA BISTRO
Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati City
(02) 7294888
For many people brunch means Eggs Benedict. I can think of no better place for Eggs Benedict in the Philippines. This is the brunch with a lineage: more than a decade ago a group of friends would host brunch at Republic of Malate, this eventually moved to the Sala at the PLDT building, most of the menu is still available at Sala bistro. Unlimited bubbly is an option.
WILDFLOUR CAFÉ + BAKERY
Net Lima Bldg 26th Street, BGC, Taguig, with branches in Salcedo Village and SM Podium
(02) 8567600
This widely patronized establishment has spawned several branches. Aside from the freshly baked items it was first known for a properly executed Croque Madame, which is a grilled sandwich with ham and béchamel inside topped by an egg. New favorites include scrambled eggs with bacon gravy (while it is usually served on toast the better option is to request substituting it with a freshly baked biscuit) and a Breakfast Cazuela containing white beans, a Pamplona chorizo, and a fried egg. People swear by the Bloody Mary here as well.
APARTMENT 1B.
132 L.P. Leviste Ave. corner Sedeno St. Salcedo Village, Makati City
(02) 8434075
This restaurant has likewise given birth to other branches. Aside from boasting a menu of comfort food it is known for having an above average Eggs Benedict. While this would never be my first choice for brunch it seems to be very popular in that I consistently get invited for brunch in these establishments.
SHANG PALACE
Makati Shangri-La Hotel Ayala Center, Makati City
(02) 8138888
Most people would pick Summer Palace in EDSA Shangri-La since its seems to be the first choice of the Chinese community. I prefer Shang Palace because of its relatively relaxed atmosphere and consistently excellent food. Over the last few decades many new restaurants have offered excellent Yum Cha I feel that we should patronize the first restaurant that raised the standard of dimsum in the Philippines.
LONDON
DA CORRADI
20-22 Shepherd Market London W1
+44 20 74910229
As far back as I can recall, I would look forward to the early morning walks with my parents to enjoy a full English breakfast at this intimate restaurant in Shepherd Market. It’s a stone’s throw away from our former flat in Mayfair. It was also a favorite of my grandparents and we haven’t stopped going since.
BAKER & SPICE
47 Denyer Street, Chelsea London SW3
+44 20 72253417
There are a few Baker & Spice bakeries and shops around London. My favorite is the Chelsea branch. They serve the tastiest almond croissant I have ever had, crunchy and moist at the same time. Bang for the buck!
THE WOLSELEY
160 Piccadilly London W1
+44 20 74996996
Great location in Picadilly. The Eggs Benedict is a must here.
OTTOLENGHI
13 Motcomb Street, Belgravia London SW1
+44 20 78232707
The most interesting and beautiful salads to choose from! This tiny place in the heart of Belgravia is such a delight! The counter is overflowing with a rainbow of savouries, pastries and salads! It’simpossible to single out one dish as everything is super. Their café mocha is delicious too.
THE HINDS HEAD
High Street, Bray West Berkshire SL6 2AB
+44 1628 626151
If you venture outside of London and find yourself in Bray, this restaurant has the best scotch egg ever and the cutest spiked drink called The Sweet Shop which consists of candy floss, Skittles, marshmallow froth and a generous dash of vodka. A perfect start to the day!
NEW YORK
CLINTON STREET BAKERY
4 Clinton Street New York
+1 646 6026263
Best brunch in NYC. This is where you’ll find the best pancakes in the world and the flavors to try are blueberry or banana walnut.
JOSEPH LEONARD
170 Waverly Place New York
+1 646 4298383
This is in the West Village, with a rustic American menu. Come for the Country Fried Bacon and French Toast.
MAHARLIKA
111 First Avenue New York
+1 646 3927880
The best Filipino brunch in NYC. I love the longsilog and arroz caldo.
LOCANDA VERDE
377 Greenwich Street New York
+1 212 9253797
For an Italian brunch in the Village, this is the place to go. A must-try is the Ricotta with Honey and Orange Toast.
PRUNE
54 East 1st Street New York
+1 212 6776221
A New York institution in the East Village. I love their Eggs Benedict.
HONG KONG
THE VERANDAH
109 Repulse Bay Road, Hong Kong
+852 22922822
A firm favorite! You’re definitely spoiled for choice with its expansive buffet. And the setting is gorgeous: you’re amidst elegant surroundings reminiscent of old colonial Hong Kong. The freshly made crepes are a must!
WAGYU
The Centrium 60 Wyndham Street, Hong Kong
+852 25258805
Hearty and generously portioned dishes in a bustling, trendy and cool part of town. The Eggs Benedict is a big favorite!
ISOLA
IFC Mall 1 Harbour View Street, Hong Kong
+852 23838765
Located in the IFC Mall, this hip and chic Italian restaurant boasts stunning harbor views and an outdoor terrace perfect for a long, relaxing Sunday brunch! I love its generous buffet with an Italian flair. Perfect location too for a spot of shopping after.
THE FLYING PAN
9 Old Bailey Street, Hong Kong
+852 21406333
Located in the heart of Soho, this cafe is a favorite weekend brunch hangout for my two sons and their friends. It’s a particularly popular destination for brunch with the younger crowd. Their favorites are the omelettes, Eggs Benedict and waffles. And the bottomless coffee’s a plus!
STAN CAFE IN STANLEY
Stanley Plaza, Stanley, Hong Kong
+852 23249008
A popular ex-pat hangout in Stanley with beautiful view of Stanley Beach. It’s run by a French chef, and is always packed on Sundays, so it’s best to make a reservation beforehand.
BANGKOK
CREPES & CO.
18/1 Sukhumvit Soi 12 Bangkok
+66 2 6533990
Considered one of Bangkok's best breakfast joints, this restaurant has a cozy, homey setting in a charming white house with a garden. Sweet and savory crepes, as the name implies, are its specialty. I've had the Crepe Supreme, which consists of eggs, bacon, ham and mushrooms in a creamy cheese and bechamel sauce. The Crepe Fermiere with tomatoes, mushrooms, ham and thyme is also very good.
ROAST
2/F Seenspace Thong Lor Soi 13 Bangkok
+66 2 1852866
Roast has an industrial feel, housed in a huge brickand- glass block with high ceilings. They serve great artisanal coffee which they roast themselves. The waffles with fresh strawberries and cream are great, too. It's a very popular place and always full, not just for brunch but all throughout the day!
COLONNADE
The Sukhothai Bangkok Sathorn Road, Bangkok
+66 2 3448888
The Sunday Brunch at Colonnade has been called legendary – and one look at the large, varied international spread, with Western and Asian cuisines well represented, tells you exactly why!
THE LIVING ROOM AT SHERATON GRANDE SUKHUMVIT
250 Sukhumvit Road Bangkok
+66 2 26498888
Sunday brunch and jazz make an irresistible combination. Plus there's a fresh oyster bar and a new tartare station offering beef, salmon and fish. Book a table in the lounge area in front of the band to really enjoy the music.
TRIBECA RESTOBAR
G/F Nihonmaru Mall Thonglor Soi 13 Bangkok
+66 27129209
Brunch all day, everyday. A New York-style restaurant with all-you-can-drink champagne. The buttermilk pancakes with bananas are highly recommended.