Brunch has become in recent years one of the most popular rituals in big cities, and Bucharest is no exception. The perfect combination between breakfast and lunch, paired with a relaxed atmosphere and tasty dishes, has turned brunch into a gastronomic experience that many locals look forward to on weekends. Whether you are a fan of classic eggs Benedict or are just beginning your adventure in the world of pancakes, Romania’s capital offers an impressive variety of places where you can enjoy a memorable brunch. In this article, I propose a list of the most beloved locations in Bucharest, their representative menus, price ranges, and a few habits worth discovering.

What Brunch Means and Why It Is So Beloved

Brunch is, essentially, a meal usually served between the late morning and early afternoon, combining classic breakfast elements with more substantial lunch dishes. This combination quickly won over the urban public because it offers the flexibility of a prolonged meal without the constraints of a fixed schedule.

The atmosphere of a successful brunch is not based only on food but also on socializing: it is the moment when friends meet for conversations, families gather at the table, and food lovers delight in unusual combinations of flavors. In Bucharest, more and more venues have adopted this concept, adapting it to the specific tastes and preferences of Bucharest residents.

Where You Can Find Good Brunch in Bucharest

1. The Urbanist

One of the most popular destinations for brunch in Bucharest is The Urbanist. The location combines a modern design with an eclectic menu inspired by international cuisines. The brunch here includes both classic options—eggs Benedict, avocado toast, pancakes—and more inventive dishes such as shakshuka with hummus or smoked salmon tartines.

Prices: Generally, the brunch menu ranges from 45 to 85 lei for a main dish, while appetizers or desserts can cost between 20 and 40 lei.

Atmosphere: Unconstrained, ideal for meeting with friends or for a lazy weekend.

2. Baker’s Brunch & More

If you are a fan of pastry dishes and fresh ingredients, Baker’s Brunch & More is the ideal place. The specialties of the house are artisanal bakery products, which perfectly accompany a poached egg or a bowl of fresh fruit with granola. The brunch menu also includes natural smoothies, latte art, and sandwiches made with high-quality ingredients.

Prices: Brunch products start at around 35 lei and go up to 75 lei for more complex combinations.

Atmosphere: Relaxed and friendly, perfect for a laid‑back weekend morning.

3. Simbio

Another highly appreciated place for brunch is Simbio, a bistro with a spacious terrace and a menu inspired by modern cuisine. Here, the brunch includes reinterpreted eggs Benedict, creative salads, gourmet burgers, and delicious desserts. The dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients, and the portions are generous.

Prices: The brunch menu starts at 50 lei for basic dishes and can reach up to 100 lei for more complex combinations.

Atmosphere: Bohemian and friendly, ideal for a prolonged brunch outdoors when the weather allows.

4. Shift Pub

Shift Pub is an inspired choice if you want brunch with international influences and innovative cocktails. The brunch menu includes pancakes, quesadillas, English breakfast, and vegetarian or vegan options. Besides food, the location also offers creative drinks that transform brunch into a true social ritual.

Prices: Main dishes are between 50 and 90 lei, and beverages can add another 20–40 lei to the bill.

Atmosphere: Energetic, suitable for groups of friends or relaxed gatherings.

5. El Camino

For lovers of brunch with Mexican influences, El Camino offers delicious options such as breakfast tacos, eggs in spicy sauce, nachos, and breakfast burritos. The combination of intense flavors and fresh ingredients makes brunch here a memorable experience.

Prices: The brunch menu ranges between 55 and 95 lei, and adding alcoholic or non‑alcoholic drinks can raise the bill.

Atmosphere: Relaxed and friendly, with a lively energy.

Indicative Prices and What Brunch Includes

In Bucharest, brunch prices vary depending on the location, ingredients, and presentation. Generally, a brunch dish costs between 35 and 100 lei, but in more elegant venues or menus that include specialty beverages, the bill may be higher.

A classic brunch menu includes:

·       Eggs (Benedict, poached, omelet)

·       Toast with avocado, smoked salmon, or cheeses

·       Pancakes or waffles

·       Salads and grain bowls

·       Smoothies, lattes, fresh juices

·       Alcoholic drinks—mimosas, prosecco (optional, usually as an extra package)

Many places also offer brunch buffets on weekends, where you pay a fixed price for access to a variety of hot and cold dishes.

Local Habits and Rituals

In Bucharest, brunch is more than just a meal—it's a social habit. Many residents begin their weekend day with a specialty coffee in hand and then schedule meetups at places offering extended brunch until the afternoon. Brunch is often associated with family gatherings, late lunches with friends, or even relaxed business meetings.

Another custom that has caught on with Bucharest’s public is combining brunch with cultural or social activities: after savoring the dishes, you can go to an exhibition, take a walk in the park, or visit a nearby artisan market.

Tips for a Successful Experience

1.     Reserve in advance – On weekends the most popular brunch places fill up quickly, especially between 11:00 and 14:00.

2.     Check the special brunch menu – Some locations offer different menus from their regular à la carte, including seasonal dishes.

3.     Share dishes – Starting from the idea of sharing, you can order several items and split them to taste a variety.

4.     Indulge in special drinks – Mimosas or light cocktails are perfect accompaniments for brunch.

Brunch in Bucharest has become more than just a meal: it is a way of spending time, experimenting with new flavors, and starting your day in a pleasant and relaxed way. Whether you prefer classic eggs Benedict, avocado toast, or exotic dishes, the city offers a range of options worth discovering. Choose the place that matches your style, enjoy a friendly atmosphere, and turn brunch into a tradition that makes your weekends more beautiful.

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