Brunch Lust

I miss brunch.  Post-yoga Saturday morning spicy lamb sausage and eggs, with the best americanos in town at Locus or roasted vegetarian goodness at Rhizome.  Winter Farmer's Market at the Wise Hall followed by organic baguette "soldiers" at Little Nest on the Drive.  Specials of the day at Slickity Jim's or Seb's Market Cafe after Sunday church.  Early morning half orders of French toast at Zen in Kits for my monthly catch-up session with my oldest friend, or NSLP.  Or even just sneaking out on a morning spare block for a clandestine greasy spoon omelette at Nice Cafe.  At home, brunch is king and is always worth rolling out of bed for.

Not so in Italy - for brunch does not exist.  You get very sweet croissants and a quick cappuccino at the bar.  True commitment to morning fare consists of sitting down at a cafe table and paying a premium for your drink and dense pastry.  It's a travesty.

So today, with our new roommate and two of our classmates, we sat down to Sunday brunch.

Salsicce di Bra patties with apples and fresh sage,
Strata with sunchokes, arugula, mushrooms, local cheese & pancetta
Roasted apples & veggies with fresh herbs
Yogurt parfaits with toasted hazelnuts and pears
Fresh squeezed orange juice mimosas