by Michelle Sproule | Main Street’s vegetarian mecca, The Acorn, starts serving weekend brunch this weekend (both Saturday and Sunday). The menu is a continuation of what they always do, which is to say clean, inventive, modern cooking with artful presentations. I was at the dry run last weekend and fell for the Fried Egg – a deep fried poached egg – served with cornbread, sautéed dandelion greens and smoked pepperade sauce; The Skillet of confit sunchokes, potatoes, and summer squash covered in brown butter Hollandaise finished with an Urban Digs Farm poached egg; and the Southern-fried artichokes on housemade waffles (vegan and gluten-free). Pro tip: take some friends so that you can sample a little of everything and be sure to save a little room for Berries + Meringue — the meringue being vegan (made from toasted chickpeas) is a mind-blower.
The cocktail game is also strong. Choose from the “Fresh”, which sees spiced pear and sage puree with Cuvee Jean-Louis Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Wine; the “Savoury” Enmascarado Mezcal — a take on the Michelada with housemade tomato juice, Postmark Pilsner, celery bitters, pickles and smoked paprika celery salt; or the “Bitter”, which is a mix of Campari, St. Germaine elderflower liqueur, lemon curd, sparkling wine and bronze fennel. Bonus: Coffee from Four Barrel Roasters and Cold Brew from Lukes.
Brunch: Saturday + Sunday | 10am – 2:30pm | The Acorn (3995 Main St) | www.theacornrestaurant.ca