Brunch is that culinary invention which proves that in life, there’s no need to hurry all the time. You don’t have to drink your coffee standing by the kitchen counter, nor do you need to start the day with a quick, rushed sandwich.
The essence of brunch is precisely to pause, slow down, and enjoy both the lightness of breakfast and the more substantial dishes of lunch at the same time. In a restaurant, this becomes a special experience: the clinking of cups, the aroma of freshly ground coffee, the colorful dishes served on plates, and of course, good company.
What is brunch?
Brunch, the combination of breakfast and lunch, has become a popular dining form worldwide, but its origins go back more than a century. The word itself was born from the blending of breakfast and lunch, and first appeared in the British press in the 1890s. Journalist Guy Beringer suggested in a humorous essay that instead of the traditional Sunday breakfast, people should opt for a later, lighter, more social meal. He emphasized that for late risers—especially after a Saturday night out—it would be far more convenient to enjoy a plentiful late breakfast that could double as lunch.
The idea quickly caught on in England, then spread to the United States in the first half of the 20th century. In major American cities, especially New York and Chicago, brunch became a true social event. It was especially favored by those in the film industry, actors and artists, whose schedules often didn’t allow for a traditional breakfast. Hotels and restaurants soon recognized the opportunity: Sunday brunch buffets offered increasingly rich selections, from classic egg dishes to pastries, champagne, and hearty meats.
The charm of brunch lies in its variety
There are no strict rules: sweet and savory dishes freely mix, coffee is often accompanied by champagne or cocktails, the best-known pairings being the Mimosa or the Bloody Mary. Brunch is not just a meal, but a lifestyle experience, all about relaxation, conversation, and social enjoyment.
Today, brunch has become a symbol of modern urban life. Cafés, bistros, and restaurants offer it on weekends, and more and more people choose it as part of special occasions—birthdays, family gatherings, or even weddings. Thus, a more than hundred-year-old idea has grown into a global gastronomic trend, one that preserves tradition while offering freedom in dining.
The arrival
Brunch usually begins in the late morning, between 10 and 12 o’clock. This is the time when guests can still catch the morning sunlight, yet the air already carries the carefree mood of the weekend. At the restaurant entrance, staff often greet guests with a smile, and it’s immediately clear that this is not a rushed lunch hour: everything happens more slowly, more calmly. In many places, a small appetizer—such as a selection of fresh pastries with butter and jam—already awaits at the table to set the mood.
It all begins with drinks
One of brunch’s special features is that the drinks are just as important as the food. Alongside classic coffees—espresso, cappuccino, latte—you’ll often find freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, or even a glass of sparkling wine, Mimosa, or Bloody Mary. In a good restaurant, even serving the drinks is a little ceremony: steaming coffee arrives on a dainty saucer, fresh juice in a glass decorated with ice cubes and a slice of fruit, while cocktails shine almost like table décor.
Exploring the menu
The brunch menu is always exciting, combining breakfast and lunch favorites. Egg dishes meet salads, seafood, or warm, hearty mains. Most places offer staples like Eggs Benedict, omelets and scrambles, pancakes, French toast, croissants, alongside lighter pastas, fish, roasted vegetables, and grilled dishes. A truly creative chef may bring surprising pairings to the table—like crepes filled with salmon or spiced quinoa salad with poached egg.
Dining at Oinos Bistro and Wine Bar
For a true brunch experience in Budapest, Oinos Bistro and Wine Bar is an excellent choice. This cozy downtown spot is both modern and homely, with the warm tones of wooden tables and shelves lined with wine bottles creating a family-like atmosphere. Here, brunch is not just a meal but a slow culinary journey: alongside classic egg combinations, the menu highlights Mediterranean flavors, fresh herbs, and premium ingredients. The house wines pair perfectly with light fish dishes or fruity desserts, and the staff’s attentiveness completes the experience. It’s the kind of place where you don’t rush home after Sunday brunch—you’d rather order another coffee and savor the moment.
Slowly does it…
One of brunch’s greatest advantages is that there’s no rush. No delivery trays arrive, no “lunch break” pressure—the restaurants know that guests are also paying for the luxury of time. Dishes are often served at a slower pace, sometimes in smaller portions so you can taste more, leaving plenty of time for conversation. After a restaurant brunch, people rarely hurry anywhere. The pleasant fullness and gentle rhythm promise a relaxed afternoon. Guests often take a stroll nearby, or stop by a café for one last cappuccino. A good brunch is not only about eating—it sets the tone for the whole day.
The social side of dining
Brunch in restaurants is a decidedly social experience. It’s not uncommon for three or four dishes to arrive at once for the table to share. Friends often spend the entire late morning together, or families gather with children nibbling pancakes while adults enjoy salads and fresh bagels. Brunch nourishes not only the body but also social life.
A sweet ending
Even if you don’t have a sweet tooth, dessert at the end of brunch is almost a must. It could be a light panna cotta, a fruity tart, or a slice of rich chocolate cake. Desserts are often served in smaller portions, so you can sample them without guilt. At the best places, a little surprise comes with coffee—like a bite-sized macaron or a piece of homemade chocolate.
Why do we love it so much?
Brunch has become so popular because it combines the pleasure of gastronomy with social life and leaves room for experimentation. In restaurants, all of this is elevated: the beautiful presentation, the cozy atmosphere, and professional service create an experience difficult to recreate at home. Perhaps this is why the weekend ritual developed, where people head out and start the day with a shared brunch.
