One of our favorite parts of being gay is all the damn brunches.
Seriously, we don’t think we could get through a week without some raucous laughter with friends over Bloody Marys, mimosas and sangria. If someone happens to put an egg or two in front of us, all the better.
Of course, Dallas has brunch options coming out the wazoo. Some seem more like joyless, obligatory nods to the local brunch culture while others embrace the concept of the celebratory meal wholeheartedly.
Encina most definitely fits into the latter category. Housed in the former Bolsa space in Oak Cliff, this relatively new spot has quickly become a go-to for our personal brunching needs (when we aren’t busy covering other restaurants for this feature).
The atmosphere‘s lively, there’s a big LGBTQ presence, and the portions are huge enough to order a few things for a family-style feast in the center of your table.
We tried nearly everything on the menu and loved it all, but the blue corn pancakes are life-changing. We’ve never had pancakes with such wonderful texture and depth of flavor on their own, but when paired with butterscotch and cajeta they transcended this earthly realm for a downright orgasmic experience worthy of a When Harry Met Sally sequel.
Other hits include the Thanksgiving-for-breakfast confit turkey hash, kale biscuits and chorizo gravy, and some magnificent mega migas.
And the farm-fresh Verde Mary was light enough to enjoy several, unlike traditional tomato-based Bloody Marys that can be so heavy.
So if you’re ready for a new brunch place to put on permanent rotation, gather your friends, make a resy, and see why brunch at Encina is so en vogue.
Encina Brunch
Main photo courtesy of Encina
Sundays
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
614 West Davis Street, Dallas
encinadallas.com
