Crackers
1285 W. Elliot Rd.
Tempe, AZ 85284
I love the blackberry bread pudding here, but that isn't exactly brunch, now is it? I have enjoyed their crab eggs benedict and although I had a small bit of shell here and there, I was comforted in the knowledge that it was real crab meat and none of that icky fake crab! Their blintzes are yummy and the chicken salad sandwich is tasty. Their cream of spinach and artichoke soup is divine and very rich. A great place for taking your future mother-in-law or girls brunch to catch up! They actually have several locations, so find the one most convenient for everyone and enjoy.
Chompies
1160 E. University Dr
Tempe, AZ 85281
Where do I start? The blintzes are quite good. There is a hint of orange in the cheese filling. Have them with a little sour cream and you'll thank me. The tartness of the sour cream cuts the sweet richness of the dish. I can't get enough of their potato latkes with applesauce for a bit of the savory. The coffee leaves a bit left to desire, but the bagels are so good, you might not notice. I love a properly made bagel with lox (smoked salmon) and shmear (cream cheese). Add a little red onion and capers and you have an amazing brunch! Expect a wait on the weekend, but it's totally worth it!
Petite Maison
7216 E. Shoeman Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
This place has an unreal champagne brunch on Sundays. $29 buys you your choice of three courses and unlimited glasses of champagne, mimosas, and bellinis! I usually have their quiche lorriane (French pastry shell filled with eggs, bacon, leeks, onions, and cheese) and steak et oeufs (steak and eggs) and I cannot get enough Beignets au Nutella (basically little pieces of fried dough you dip into chocolate and hazelnut sauce). The patio is a romantic garden and the staff is amazing. You'll never have better service or food!
Au Petit Four
2501 E. Camelback Rd #18
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I know I've already mentioned a French place for brunch, but this place is a bit more casual and extra delicious. This tiny little place is hidden among office spaces within the Esplanade off 24th and Camelback. Park in the garage and it's on the ground floor tucked into the central corridor. The owners make everything fresh. Their daily egg scramble specials are always good. I usually have the provencal quiche or goat cheese. I've never consumed a better croissant, which makes perfect sense that they are also known for their incredible pastries. The coffee is made fresh for each person who orders, so don't forget to chat with the owner about your specific likings...they are very agreeable and love talking about their place.
Matt's Big Breakfast
801 N. 1st. Street
Phoenix AZ, 85004
Ok, hipsters crowd this place every weekend, but if you're willing to wait you'll have one of the best breakfast sandwiches ever created. The place is no bigger than a minute, so you put your name on the list outside and wait for the extremely friendly staff to seat you. Chatting with others waiting for a table or wandering across the street to Phoenix Public Market for ten minutes can be a great way to pass the time. I have dedicated the better part of an hour before and never ONCE have been disappointed. The egg sandwich is served on a fresh roll, grilled onions, cheese, eggs (duh), and bacon. You must try their amazing home fries made with rosemary and onion. I love their waffle, served with real maple syrup, it's perfectly crisp and yummy. You'll feel hip just being here!
