By Annika Erdman
Brunch wasn’t invented in Austin, but in a town where the night life is as active as here in the capitol city, it is a sacred ritual. The lazy, late morning meal has been perfected by restaurants around town. Whether entertaining guests, or meeting up with friends to nurse hangovers, these 3 brunch spots are not to be missed.
Chez Zee
About: This self-proclaimed American Bistro is also known for it’s lengthy dessert menu, but the brunch menu is just as impressive. If you judge a restaurant based on longevity, you should know Chez Zee has been in Austin for almost 22 years.
Brunch bites: The brunch menu at Chez Zee features 11 types of Eggs Benedict.
If the weather allows, Chez Zee’s outdoor patio tables are beautiful spots for a leisurely brunch.
When: Brunch is served starting at 9a on the weekends, lasting into the afternoon.
Where: 5406 Balcones Dr. (Northland exit on MoPac)
Union Park
About: If you were out on 6th Street the night before, it’s fitting to spend the next morning there filling up on a buffet brunch at this restaurant/bar.
Brunch bites: Bottomless mimosas are only $7 and there is a build-your-own Blood Mary bar, so keep your plans for the rest of the day low key.
Union Park serves a brunch on the roof, so you can greet the day by eating at a table overlooking the city, listening to DJ Swing.
When: Brunch is served 11a -6p on Sundays.
Where: 612 W. Sixth St.
Kerbey Lane
What: The menu is extensive, but pancakes are the famous, brunch favorite. Standbys include apple wheat, buttermilk and gingerbread, but watch for the Pancake of the Day if you are looking for something new. If you’re not feeling pancakes, I suggest going for the Eggs Francisco (featuring Kerbey’s famous queso!) and one of Kerbey’s spicy bloody Mary’s.
Brunch bites: Craving Kerbey pancakes? You can buy the mix at HEB or at one of the locations to enjoy them from the comfort of your home.
If you’re planning on a Sunday brunch – the Guadalupe and Kerbey Lane locations fill up fast, so be prepared to wait and spend some time finding parking or get there in time for the Early Bird specials.
When: Many of the Kerbey Lane locations are open 24/7, so brunch is whenever you say it is.
Where: Central (the original) – 3704 Kerbey Ln., South – 2700 South Lamar Blvd., Northwest – 13435 Hwy 183 N, Ste. 415, UT Campus – 2606 Guadalupe St., Southwest- 4301 William Cannon Dr.
ATX Guest Pass 
Kerbey Lane has been one of my favorite places to eat for any meal for years. In terms of breakfast/brunch options, I always enjoy the migas or their breakfast tacos, which are pretty reasonably priced and extremely tasty. Another great place that I’d suggest for brunch that is very Austiny is Magnolia Cafe. They have a pretty huge selection of omelettes, and the Primadora is my favorite.
The menu’s on both of these other restaurants look great, though. I’ll be sure to try them out!
I just got home from brunch at Eastside Cafe on Manor Road. But your post reminded me how long it’s been since I’ve gone to Chez Zee. I always try one of their vegetarian quiche options, which are great. And I didn’t know Union Park served brunch. Bottomless mimosas for $7 means I will have to check them out, maybe next weekend!