Being a New Yorker, brunch was a sacred ritual that one looked forward to all week and that signified the end of a hard work week or provided a soft place to land after a night on the town. It’s a celebration over pancakes and waffles where you gather with your favorite people and catch-up over a conversation that leans more towards meandering vs a sprint. Day drinking, which is usually frowned upon is not only optional but encouraged! (Yes, please!) It is such a cherished ritual that one often finds themselves waiting in a line for hours to get a taste of the neighborhoods fluffiest breakfast goodies.
Relocating to the Poconos I found myself lost, without a brunch bullseye! Not sold on the art of brunching? Just hear me out: A) when else is eating dessert for breakfast acceptable B) day drinking, um, yes C) torn between savory or sweet? Get both (what, doesn’t everyone do this?) D) brunch, when done right can soothe your sadness and ease your lonely soul. Studies show that laughter with friends coupled with carbs and booze extends your life span (ok, not officially, but a scientist should be working on these numbers).
I had a hard time settling in here and missed my little rituals, especially brunch. I’ve found a few spots with a tasty menu, good service and chill ambiance to give a true brunch feel to the midday, carb loaded feast. So, if you, like me, need a good brunch spot- fret not. I made a list and I’m happy to share it.
First up, The Cure Cafe located on Main St. in downtown Stroudsburg hits the spot every time. I am a creature of habit and get the same dish every. single. time (don’t judge). Their gluten free pancakes are absolutely delicious and always come out just right. It’s a small place, but don’t let than deter you, they pack a mighty punch! It has a small town country feel and the servers are always happy to see you (bonus points for knowing my “usual” and getting it to me with a smile). When your there, you have permission to linger, privacy to have some uninterrupted conversation and good eats. My coffee never hits the half way mark with out someone popping over for a refill and they supply the base for a proper brunch cocktail and encourage you to BYOB to get the party started. I am a frequent flier here and pop in almost weekly for my pancake fix and to observe the holy ritual of brunching. They close at 2:30pm so make sure you get there with time to spare (because it isn’t brunch if you have to rush!)
Located at 517 Main St, Stroudsburg, PA 18360 (570) 664-2888
The BeerHouse Café – you could easily miss this place if you weren’t paying attention. Nestled between storefronts on Crystal St. in East Stroudsburg, The Beerhouse Café has a cool Williamsburg vibe and the spices the Chef, Chahrazed Chadli uses are out-of-bounds! Born in Algeria, Chahrazed was exposed to cooking with influences from all over the globe. Her unique blend of unfamiliar spices elevates a basic breakfast dish to an almost euphoric experience. My favorite? Definitely the Huevos Rancheros which she redesigned to give it oomph using Grilled paratha (Indian flat bread) topped with fresh creamy Fava bean spread, 2 fried eggs, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh guacamole.
They also have a full bar on-site, serving all the Brunch must haves!
Located at 15 Crystal St East Stroudsburg PA 18301 570.420.7522
Stroudsmoor Country Inn– They do brunch buffet style, so it’s basically brunch on steroids with tables and tables of food options. If you prefer lots of items from the standard American brunch menu, this is your spot! They bring in bagels from Brooklyn and provide all you need for a killer bagel with Nova Salmon and with a full bar, you can decide if a bloody mary or mimosa is best suited to wash your meal down. The ambiance is like a country club with lots of wood details, a big fireplace and servers everywhere! They make sure you have everything you need and clear plates quickly. When you finish up you can move into a sitting room with cozy leather couches in front of the fireplace. If you head in after 11am, you get a complimentary glass of champagne!
The Stroudsmoor Country Inn is famous for their weddings. It seems like everyone I meet that got married in the area, got married at Stroudsmoor. The grounds are breathtaking with incredible mountain views, great food and the service never disappoints. They also have lodging on site, in case your brunch gets out of hand!
Priced at $22.95 per person (half price for kiddos under 10) it gets crowded fast so make a reservation if you can, especially if you have a large party.
Located at 257 Stroudsmoor Road Stroudsburg, PA 18360 (570) 421-6431
If you head out to any of the places listed above, snap a pretentious food shot and tag it #ahomeinthepoconos. Don’t play hard to get, you know your stoked!! Happy Brunching… (and, you’re welcome)
Images are from each individual business’s Facebook page
These are all wonderful places – add kitch-en in eagle valley mall to your list. You won’t be disappointed!
Thanks for the recommendation, we will have to check them out!