Thursday, August 2, 2012

Lolla Brunching...Where To Dine This Weekend

Nellcotepancakes
Nellcôte's pancakes are made from its house-milled flour. (Photo: Nellcôte)

Before heading to Lolla this weekend for the music extravaganzas, you'll need to fuel up. But instead of hitting up the typical hotel brunches, why not give these spots a little local love?!

Nellcôte's recently launched Weekend Review prix-fixe brunch is $18 a person and includes an assortment of house-milled breads, pastries, cheeses and house-made charcuterie. Guests also get to choose one entree, such as lobster hash with poached eggs, quiche Lorraine with smoked bacon or pancakes with seasonal fruit. Kitchen-inspired cocktails include Verde Maria (a unique blend of El Milagro tequila, cilantro, tomatillo, green apple and jalapeño) and the Nellcôte Bellini (raspberry jam, peach nectar and Champagne). Tables with at least four diners get a complimentary bottle of prosecco. Deejays spin rock 'n' roll, so get ready for a party atmosphere. 10am-3pm Saturday and Sunday.

A brunch fave at 25 Degrees is the Banana Pecan French Toast. It's $10, and for an extra $15 you can add a bottomless Mimosa or Bloody Mary experience. Additional brunch cocktails: Kentucky Brunch (A-1 rye, apricot marmalade, peach bitters) and Spiced Cucumber Collins (Henrick's gin, lime, shishito pepper, cucumber, mint).

At Lakeshore East newcomer Eggy's, brunch is served all day and all items are under $13. Of course there's a number of egg dishes on the menu, but we're especially excited about the build-your-own-omelet option, where guests may choose from gourmet ingredients such as avocado, roasted peppers, gueso fresco, scallions and Gruyere.

Toni Patisserie & Cafe celebrates its first anniversary in its Loop location in late August. In the meantime, revelers may scoot over here for house-made pastries and French-inspired breakfast favorites like quiche Lorraine, biscuit de Jambon, yogurt parfait and Plat de Fruits.

You really cannot go wrong with any menu item at Yolk, and lucky for Lolla folks there is a location near Grant Park. Head here beforehand for the bacon quesadilla wrap, cheesy egg sandwich, and the Santa Fe fritatta of bacon, avocado, and three cheeses scrambled with jalepenos, green onions, and grilled red diced potatoes.

Check out some additional spots to dining during Lolla at ChicagoShopping.com.

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