San Francisco's brunch scene has been shaken up by the swanky Birch & Rye, known for putting a luxurious twist on the classic weekend ritual complete with a Russian flair. The Noe Valley spot, given new life on Sundays, now drops beats to Sublime while diners down Moscow mules and feast on caviar-topped delights. According to SF Eater, the ambiance at Birch & Rye is "chipper and fun" but steers clear of the typical boozy party scene, aiming for an experience that walks the line between laid-back and lavish.
Oozing culinary elegance without the pretension, Birch & Rye offers an a la carte brunch menu imbued with both opulence and choice, throwing a lifeline to those who balk at the idea of overpriced, mandatory mimosa packages and salty potato sides. Patrons have a bounty of options, from the caviar-kissed omelet to vegan and gluten-free selections, ensuring no one has to settle for anything less than their brunch ideal. Chef and owner Anya El-Wattar, with a nod to refined russet tones, has created a space that's a welcoming, well-lit respite from the city buzz, SF Eater reports.
Yet, there's more than brunch to this venue's acclaim. Birch & Rye has also been spotlighted as a 2023 James Beard Awards Semifinalist for Best New Restaurant, attesting to its rising culinary star. According on the restaurant's official website, guests can indulge in two tasting menus including a chef’s menu and, a vegan option, both showcasing five inspired courses. The drink program itself reads like a love letter to the craft, boasting handcrafted infused vodkas and a thoughtfully selected wine list, elevating the dining experience to impressive heights.
Noe Valley has its new Sunday rendezvous, and it's all thanks to Birch & Rye's promise to deliver an authentic San Franciscan brunch every bit as unique as the city itself. Be it the warm sea buckthorn tea or the Duroc bacon accompanied by duck fat-fried potatoes, every item is a nod to quality and heritage. Tucked at 1320 Castro Street, this brunch gem opens its doors from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays, as SF Eater acknowledges, for those in pursuit of a leisurely luxury that's just a reservation away.
