The Sycamore Kitchen

Much like a Taylor Swift single or anything that airs on HGTV, you figure you have more than enough reasons to dislike Sycamore Kitchen. The line is long, everyone’s wearing kaftans, and it’s way too hot to be standing in the sun. But like anyone who watches House Hunters or put 1989 on their iPhone (everyone?), it’s deep down everything you’ve ever wanted.

For starters, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill corner bakery. It’s culinary power couple Karen and Quinn Hatfield’s redefinition of the urban cafe-bakery. We hate ourselves for writing that sentence, but it’s frankly true. The Hatfields opened Sycamore Kitchen in 2012 with a dedication to house-made pastries, a serious approach to coffee, and an absolutely top-notch brunch menu. Basically all the things it takes to get out of bed on a hazy Sunday morning.

You order at their one-register counter (hence that long line of awfulness) and sit in their millennial-approved, exposed brick patio eye-f*cking every dish and person in sight. Trust us, it’s fun and happens naturally. Joe Jonas was even there having a really intense, locked-eyed conversation with a man in jorts and red high-tops. Anything’s possible here.

But once the food comes, you realize what this whole circus is about. Sycamore Kitchen might be the most affordable, quality brunch in the city. There is a menu change that occurs at 11am each day (12:30pm on the weekends) but nobody’s even mad about it. Because when the Hatfields are behind the counter, you simply trust whatever is on the board. So kick back, relax, and bring your best pair of statement sunglasses. You’ll need them.

Food Rundown

Jerusalem Bowl

Warm wheat berries, barley, chicken, chilies, and two fried eggs combine into this absolutely blockbuster bowl of hearty goodness.

Scrambled Egg and Chorizo Sandwich

It has been rated one of the best breakfast sandwiches in the city and we are not denying it.

Pork Belly Hash

It’s funny to think that pork belly was once considered scraps on the cutting board because this hash is a complete headliner. Savory, warm, and perfectly filling.

Eggs Benedict

Another stand out that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. We think its that honey-sheery glazed panchetta making the difference.

Cured Salmon Tartine

On the lighter side, but we’re talking top-notch salmon here and CREME FRAAAAAAAAAAICHE.

Spicy Vietnamese Salad

Not letting breakfast completely run the show at Sycamore Kitchen, this salad is absolutely one of our favorites in the city and a case study in how spice always makes things better.

Chicken Salad Toast

It doesn’t necessarily jump out on the menu but it’s simple, light, and that Greek yogurt aioli is tailor-made for your hangover.