With New Year's Day falling on a Saturday, it's an ideal opportunity to pull out all the stops for brunch. Whether the plan is to tuck in for all-day binge watching or look for an excuse to get together with friends for day drinking, there is a local brunch for every mood.
1. Big plans for doing as little as possible
Myriel: This charming restaurant from Karyn Tomlinson in St. Paul's Highland Park is returning to its roots: takeout. During the pandemic, Tomlinson first served brunch to-go out of the restaurant's tiny kitchen, and the classics are available this weekend. Just throw a jacket on over your jammies and grab an English muffin egg sandwich, caramel roll and some crispy baked potatoes. Order ahead for pick up between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
470 Cleveland Av. S. St. Paul, myrielmn.com.
2. When a hangover is holding you hostage and there are demands
Surly's Busted Ass Brunch: The folks at Surly Brewing Co. have likely nursed a hangover or two, so they know how to feed the barking beasts inside your head. The menu is stacked with hearty fried and cheesy fare. Plus, there will be a DJ. No reservations are required for regular dining. However, if your hangover needs are a bit extra, order ahead for a giant tower of fried appetizers, including chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, jalapeño poppers, macaroni and cheese balls, unlimited fries and a buttermilk ranch fountain for $75.
520 Malcolm Av. SE., Mpls., surlybrewing.com
3. If the day requires more bar time
246 Grill: The James Ballentine VFW is an iconic Lyn/Lake dive bar with a whole menu built for comfort. It's an ideal place for drinks without pomp and cheesy, creamy, hearty fare. The Minnesota poutine is basically Tater Tots topped with scratch-made chicken wild rice soup.
2916 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls., 246grill.com
4. Brunch pizza — and more beer
Pryes Brewing: Beer and pizza are a glorious combination no matter the time of day, but it can be especially medicinal the day after a big fest. Stop by this Near North brewery starting at 11 a.m. for all kinds of brunch beer: beerlinis, beermosas, cold press stout and more. Coming out of the kitchen will be breakfast-topped pizzas including one flavored like eggs Benedict and a vegetarian Florentine variety. No reservations necessary.
