Geist

Once a blacksmith shop that originally opened in 1886, Geist is a Germantown staple that briefly closed after the 2020 tornado devastated the neighborhood. But it’s back and better than ever—and that includes brunch. You’ll still get some blacksmith workshop energy here, with the odd crystal chandelier and blue velvet banquette thrown in for good effect, and it’s a cool, sort of under-the-radar spot.

Bring some out-of-towners on a Sunday morning for banana bread french toast soaked in bourbon, cinnamon rolls topped with cream cheese icing, and a rich pork belly and short rib hash swimming in runny eggs. If the weather’s nice, settle into a spot on the garden patio with a few Good Mourning cocktails, which mix up vodka, cold brew, coffee liqueur, and cinnamon.