6/7/08

Mimosas at The Belgian Cafe

If there's one thing I know, it's that no brunch is complete without a mimosa. Two parts champagne, one part fresh-squeezed orange juice, mimosas are pretty standard and easy to make.

But recently at The Belgian Cafe, I discovered a mimosa unlike any other: the Blanche Mimosa. In fact, I find myself spoiled now, resenting "ordinary" mimosas. Instead of champagne, the Blanche gets its unique, frothy taste from Blanche de Bruxelles, a refreshing wheat beer with hints of coriander and orange peel.

Beer and orange juice?

I must admit, that at first I thought the combination unthinkable. And yet, quite ingeniously, the Belgian Cafe takes what it does best (beer) and transforms mimosas into a drink that anyone can enjoy. Even those who find it too pretentious or would rather cure their hangover with a Bloody Mary are sure to enjoy this mimosa with a Belgian twist.

For those still missing the Bloody Mary, the Belgian Cafe offers mussels, marinated in tomato juice, celery, horseradish, pepper and vodka. The brunch menu also features Charcuterie Mussels, boasting flavor from garlic sausage, ham, goat cheese and charcuterie mustard.

Looking for more traditional breakfast fare? The Belgian Cafe also features eggs benedict, hearty steak and eggs, poached eggs with salsa, and even a croque madame egg sandwich. You can also order french toast and a number of clever vegetarian options.

If The Belgian Cafe sounds new to you, that's because it only opened last year, at the former site of Tavern on the Green. However, its collection of beers from around the world and steaming crocks of mussels have been satisfying local palates for years at Monk's Cafe, which is owned by the same duo, Tom Peters and Fergus Carey (Read more about Monk's at PhilaFoodie).

If you enjoy a wide variety of seasoned mussels, I would recommend The Belgian Cafe for dinner, though I have found the rest of the menu to be lackluster. But, as far as brunch is concerned, I can't get enough of the Blanche Mimosas.

Get Directions

6 comments:

Jon R said...

This blog is really informative. I live in the Art Museum neighborhood and am always looking for new things to do and places to go.

PS. I also enjoy the Blanche Mimosa!

Greta said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Greta said...

Sounds delicious!

Would you consider adding an indication of the relative costs of the different eating establishments to your posts? And also whether the restaurant is formal or casual? As someone unfamiliar with the area except for infrequent visits, I'd find that helpful ...

Matt said...

I love brunch & the Belgian cafe's menu is to die for! What kind of atmosphere is it & is there outdoor seating? There is nothing better than brunch on a patio.

Susan said...

The dining room has a warm atmosphere, with bright orange walls and cool artwork and the bar is a bit darker. And there is outdoor seating!

melissa shae said...

A new and improved mimosa? Sounds too good to be true. I'll have to check this place out. Thanks for the tip!