Brunch time: Hot spots you need to try

Mmm, the sweet smell of brunch. There’s nothing quite like ending the workweek and kicking off the weekend for the chance to have that delicious in-between meal, complete with a mimosa and good company. A few of our favorite spots around town have recently found this to be true, as well, as evidenced by their new and improved brunch menus. Here are a few standout spots that you need to pop in to next time you and yours are in the business of brunchin’ in San Diego.

Beerfish

The casual style, seafood-themed restaurant off of Adams Avenue is adding about six new dishes to their menu to allow for a weekend brunch selection, available from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. New menu items include a Maine lobster breakfast burrito, thick-cut sourdough French toast with orange-infused syrup, blue crab Benedict, wild Mexican shrimp and grits with bacon, and a wild coho smoked salmon scramble. All other menu items will still be available to order, including mimosas, Bloody Marys and plenty of craft beer.

2933 Adams Ave., North Park . beerfish.com

Dunedin North Park

New Zealand vibes and comfort food for brunch? Count us in. Dunedin is now expanding further with a brunch menu to be offered from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy an American-meets-NZ-themed menu featuring dishes such as a croque madame with bechamel bread pudding; a Dutch baked pancake with fried habanero chicken; steak with shrimp and grits; and a “kiwi breakfast” that features scrambled eggs, English baked beans, sausage and potatoes.

3501 30th Ave., North Park. dnp-sd.com

Breakfast Republic

The well-known breakfast chain has expanded yet again (and will soon have Carmel Valley and Ocean Beach on the list, as well) to East Village. The former location of Zanzibar Cafe has become a hot spot yet again for all things breakfast and brunch food. With mimosas, Bloody Marys and a full menu of breakfast and brunch, Breakfast Republic is becoming a classic San Diego staple. If you haven’t been yet, some of our “must try” items include the steak ‘n’ eggs, cinnamon roll pancakes, French toast sampler flight and breakfast bacon mac ‘n’ cheese.

707 G St., East Village; and various other locations. breakfastrepublic.com

Herb & Eatery

If you’re craving a quick brunch at a just-opened spot, Herb & Eatery is a go-to. The casual market-meets-sandwich shop offers Spanish-style baked egg dishes, house-made bagels with lox, fresh smoothies, and pressed juices in addition to more lunch-leaning items such as artisan sandwiches and appetizers. Oh, and don’t worry, there is on-tap coffee and freshly made cocktails to pair with whichever delicious item you pick. Herb & Eatery is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. through 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

2210 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy. herbandeatery.com