Top 10 Places for Brunch in the United States in 2027
Kory WhiteFractional CRO · 25 yrs · $0→$200MHire a Fractional CRO
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The Best Overall brunch in the United States in 2027 is Swan & Dolphin at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, where the Bottomless Brunch experience combines world-class culinary creativity with an immersive, family-friendly atmosphere — the signature draw is a never-ending flight of mimosas, bloody marys, or craft cocktails paired with a globally-inspired buffet that includes made-to-order omelets, fresh seafood, and decadent pastries. The Best Value pick is The Original Pancake House in Portland, Oregon, a beloved institution where a towering stack of Dutch Baby pancakes or apple pancakes costs well under most brunch entrees in major cities while still delivering scratch-made quality and generous portions. This list is built for travelers, foodies, and weekend brunch enthusiasts who want the genuinely best places to eat across the country — from coastal seafood shacks to urban rooftop gardens. Every pick below is a real, well-known, currently-operating establishment with a long local and national reputation.
1. How We Ranked the Top 10
We weighted each brunch spot against what diners in 2027 actually prioritize, drawing on local reviews from Eater, The Infatuation, Bon Appétit, OpenTable, Yelp, and TripAdvisor, plus years of "Best Brunch" reader awards. The weighting:
- Food quality — 30%
- Consistency and service — 20%
- Value — 15%
- Atmosphere and setting — 15%
- Menu range — 10%
- Local reputation — 10%
A restaurant that nails one great dish but stumbles on service or value drops fast. The winners balance all six, and the unique brunch vibes — abundant in this country — count toward atmosphere, not toward forgiving mediocre food.
1. Swan & Dolphin at Walt Disney World 🏆 BEST OVERALL
Cuisine: Global brunch buffet / American | Price: $$$$ | Best for: The ultimate indulgent brunch experience
Located at the Swan & Dolphin Resort in the heart of Walt Disney World, this brunch is a spectacular, over-the-top affair that has become a destination in itself. The Bottomless Brunch offers a never-ending flow of mimosas, bloody marys, and craft cocktails, alongside a massive buffet that includes a raw bar with oysters and shrimp, a carving station with prime rib and lamb, made-to-order omelets, pancakes and waffles, and a dessert station that rivals any bakery. The setting is elegant yet family-friendly, with large windows overlooking the resort's pools and gardens. It is routinely named among the best brunches in the world by travel and food press.
Pros:
- Bottomless cocktails included in the price
- Incredible variety from seafood to sweets
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Elegant, resort-level atmosphere
Cons:
- Very expensive — a splurge for special occasions
- Reservations required and book up weeks in advance
Verdict: Swan & Dolphin is the complete brunch experience — the food, the drinks, and the atmosphere all in one unforgettable place.
2. The Original Pancake House, Portland
Cuisine: American breakfast / pancakes | Price: $$ | Best for: Classic, affordable brunch done right
A Portland institution since the 1950s, The Original Pancake House is the Best Value pick for brunch in the U.S. in 2027. Their Dutch Baby — a puffy, oven-baked pancake served with lemon and powdered sugar — is legendary, as are their apple pancakes and sourdough flapjacks. The menu is scratch-made from quality ingredients, and portions are generous. The atmosphere is cozy and nostalgic, with a long counter and red vinyl booths. It is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its consistency and affordability.
Pros:
- Affordable prices — most entrees under $15
- Iconic Dutch Baby and apple pancakes
- Scratch-made quality
- Quick service and no-fuss atmosphere
Cons:
- Long waits on weekends — no reservations
- Limited savory options — mostly pancake-focused
Verdict: For a classic, no-frills brunch that delivers on taste and value, The Original Pancake House is unbeatable.
3. Buvette, New York City
Cuisine: French bistro / brunch | Price: $$$ | Best for: A romantic, European-style brunch
Tucked away in the West Village, Buvette is a tiny French bistro that serves some of the best brunch in New York City. The croque madame, tartines, and baked eggs are simple but executed perfectly. The atmosphere is intimate and charming, with marble tables and a cozy bar. It is a favorite among food critics and locals for its authentic French flavors and romantic setting. Reservations are a must.
Pros:
- Exceptional French bistro food
- Intimate, romantic atmosphere
- Excellent coffee and wine list
- Consistently high-quality execution
Cons:
- Very small space — can be cramped
- Expensive for the portion size
Verdict: Buvette is the perfect spot for a leisurely, romantic brunch in the heart of NYC.
Kory WhiteFractional CRO · 25 yrs · $0→$200MHire a Fractional CRO
CRO Syndicate connects you with vetted fractional & interim revenue leaders — nationwide and across Maryland & DC.
Book a Call4. Zuni Café, San Francisco
Cuisine: Californian / Mediterranean | Price: $$$ | Best for: Iconic California brunch with a view
A San Francisco landmark since 1979, Zuni Café is famous for its roast chicken and Caesar salad, but its weekend brunch is equally legendary. The poached eggs on polenta with wild mushrooms and the brioche French toast are standout dishes. The setting is warm and bustling, with a copper bar and views of Market Street. It is a must-visit for anyone wanting a taste of classic California cuisine.
Pros:
- Iconic roast chicken and brunch dishes
- Warm, bustling atmosphere
- Excellent wine list
- Historic San Francisco institution
Cons:
- No reservations for brunch — long waits
- Can be noisy and crowded
Verdict: Zuni Café is a San Francisco brunch institution that never disappoints.
5. Commander's Palace, New Orleans
Cuisine: Creole / Southern | Price: $$$$ | Best for: Jazz brunch in a historic mansion
Commander's Palace in the Garden District of New Orleans is a legendary Creole restaurant that offers a Jazz Brunch on weekends. The turtle soup, eggs Sardou, and bread pudding soufflé are iconic. Live jazz plays while you dine in the elegant, turquoise dining room. It is a bucket-list brunch for any food lover visiting the city.
Pros:
- World-class Creole cuisine
- Live jazz music
- Elegant, historic setting
- Impeccable service
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Dress code required — no casual attire
Verdict: Commander's Palace offers a brunch experience that is pure New Orleans magic.
6. The Bongo Room, Chicago
Cuisine: American / creative brunch | Price: $$ | Best for: Creative, indulgent pancakes and savory dishes
A Chicago favorite in the Wicker Park neighborhood, The Bongo Room is known for its over-the-top pancakes — think white chocolate and raspberry or banana and Nutella — and its savory dishes like chorizo hash and eggs benedict. The portions are huge, the coffee is strong, and the vibe is hip and casual. It is a go-to spot for locals and a great value.
Pros:
- Creative, indulgent pancake flavors
- Generous portions
- Hip, casual atmosphere
- Good value for the quality
Cons:
- Long waits on weekends
- No reservations
Verdict: The Bongo Room is the perfect spot for a fun, indulgent brunch in Chicago.
7. Elizabeth Street Café, Austin
Cuisine: Vietnamese / French fusion | Price: $$ | Best for: Unique fusion brunch
Elizabeth Street Café in Austin offers a unique Vietnamese-French fusion brunch. The pho, banh mi, and beignets are standouts, alongside classic brunch items like eggs benedict with a Vietnamese twist. The bright, airy space and pastry case make it a charming spot. It is a favorite among Austin foodies.
Pros:
- Unique fusion flavors
- Excellent pho and banh mi
- Charming, bright atmosphere
- Good value
Cons:
- Small space — can be crowded
- Limited savory options for traditionalists
Verdict: Elizabeth Street Café offers a brunch experience you won't find anywhere else.
8. Portage Bay Café, Seattle
Cuisine: American / breakfast | Price: $$ | Best for: Build-your-own pancakes and local ingredients
Portage Bay Café in Seattle's Roosevelt neighborhood is famous for its "Eat Like You Give a Damn" philosophy, using local, sustainable ingredients. The highlight is the build-your-own pancake and waffle bar with an array of fresh toppings. The eggs benedict and breakfast burrito are also excellent. It is a local favorite for its quality and community focus.
Pros:
- Local, sustainable ingredients
- Build-your-own pancake bar
- Friendly, casual atmosphere
- Good value
Cons:
- Long waits on weekends
- No reservations
Verdict: Portage Bay Café is a Seattle brunch staple that delivers on quality and fun.
9. Husk, Charleston
Cuisine: Southern / farm-to-table | Price: $$$$ | Best for: Elevated Southern brunch
Husk in Charleston is a celebrated Southern restaurant that focuses on local, seasonal ingredients. The brunch menu features dishes like shrimp and grits, fried chicken and biscuits, and barbecue pork hash. The setting is a historic Victorian house with a charming porch. It is a must-visit for Southern food lovers.
Pros:
- Exceptional Southern cuisine
- Farm-to-table sourcing
- Beautiful historic setting
- Excellent cocktail program
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Reservations are hard to get
Verdict: Husk offers a refined Southern brunch experience that is worth the splurge.
10. Biscuit Love, Nashville
Cuisine: Southern / biscuits | Price: $$ | Best for: Iconic Nashville brunch
Biscuit Love in Nashville's Gulch neighborhood is a beloved brunch spot famous for its "Bonuts" (biscuit donuts) and "East Nasty" (fried chicken on a biscuit with gravy). The line often wraps around the block, but the food is worth the wait. It is a Nashville institution and a must-try for visitors.
Pros:
- Iconic Bonuts and East Nasty
- Affordable prices
- Casual, fun atmosphere
- Quick service despite the line
Cons:
- Long waits — no reservations
- Limited seating
Verdict: Biscuit Love is the definitive Nashville brunch experience.
What to Look for in a Great Brunch Spot in 2027
The brunch landscape in 2027 has evolved beyond simple eggs and toast. When choosing where to brunch, prioritize restaurants that offer creative, seasonal menus rather than static year-round offerings—the best spots now rotate their brunch items to reflect local produce and culinary trends. Look for venues that provide genuine hospitality over gimmicks: attentive service, comfortable seating that doesn't feel rushed, and a welcoming atmosphere for both solo diners and groups. Another key marker is beverage flexibility—top brunch spots now offer thoughtful non-alcoholic pairings (artisanal juices, craft sodas, or house-made shrubs) alongside traditional cocktails, catering to the growing number of diners who want a sophisticated drink without alcohol. Finally, check for reservation policies that work for your group size; many popular brunch destinations in 2027 require booking weeks in advance, especially on weekends, so planning ahead is essential.
Regional Brunch Trends Shaping the 2027 Scene
Brunch culture in the United States has become distinctly regional, with each area putting its own spin on the midday meal. In the Pacific Northwest, expect an emphasis on locally foraged ingredients—think mushroom hash with chanterelles, berry compotes from nearby farms, and house-smoked salmon benedict. The Southwest continues to push bold flavors with green chile-infused dishes, breakfast tacos with handmade tortillas, and micheladas as a popular brunch cocktail. Northeastern cities have embraced a "farm-to-table brunch" movement, where menus change weekly based on what's available from regional farms, often featuring heirloom grains and pasture-raised eggs. The Midwest offers a hearty, comforting approach with elevated takes on classics like chicken and waffles, biscuits with sausage gravy, and massive cinnamon rolls. The Southeast excels at sweet and savory combinations, from shrimp and grits to pecan praline French toast, often served with a side of live jazz or bluegrass music.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Brunch Experience
To ensure a memorable brunch outing in 2027, arrive early—many top spots fill up quickly, and the best dishes often sell out by late morning. Consider sharing plates with your group; brunch menus are designed for grazing, and ordering a variety of items (a savory egg dish, a sweet pancake stack, a side of bacon, and a fresh salad) lets everyone taste more. Don't overlook weekday brunch if your schedule allows—restaurants often have shorter waits, more attentive service, and sometimes special pricing on slower days. For those with dietary restrictions, call ahead to confirm the kitchen can accommodate gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free requests; many top brunch spots in 2027 now offer dedicated menus for these needs. Finally, tip generously—brunch service is notoriously labor-intensive, and a good tip ensures you'll be welcomed back with a smile on your next visit.
FAQ
What is the best brunch in the United States in 2027? The Swan & Dolphin at Walt Disney World is the best overall for its bottomless cocktails and world-class buffet.
What is the best value brunch? The Original Pancake House in Portland offers affordable, scratch-made pancakes and a classic experience.
Which brunch is best for a romantic date? Buvette in New York City offers an intimate, French bistro atmosphere perfect for a romantic brunch.
What is the best brunch in New Orleans? Commander's Palace for its Jazz Brunch and iconic Creole dishes.
What is the best brunch in Chicago? The Bongo Room for its creative, indulgent pancakes and hip vibe.
What is the best brunch in Nashville? Biscuit Love for its iconic Bonuts and Southern comfort food.
Sources
- Eater
- The Infatuation
- Bon Appétit
- OpenTable
- Yelp
- TripAdvisor
- Travel + Leisure
- Food & Wine
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