So when I got an invite to check out the new brunch menu at Atkins Park, my interest was piqued. Brunch at a bar? When I'm looking for a brunch spot, I only ask for a few things: No long waits, outdoor seating, breakfast cocktails and something more interesting than an omelet or pancakes on the menu. Well check, check, check, check...Atkins Park has it all.
To start with, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they had outdoor seating in the little alley next to it. Inside would be a bit dark for my taste on a sunny Sunday morning, but outside was perfect and baby and dog friendly to boot. Service was also friendly and attentive.
Little apple fritters to start were ridiculously delicious. Not exactly diet food but hard to resist. My short rib and poached eggs were hearty and far more upscale than I was expecting. It was a good sized portion of meet and the eggs were nice and runny. Salmon and potato pancakes sounded interesting but didn't quite do it for me. I was expecting more of a Hannukah style shredded potato latke, but instead it was a soft and perhaps too soggy more traditional style pancake made with potatoes.
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| Baby G approves of the Atkins Park Patio |
The kids meal yielded tasty and well priced french toast and grits for Baby G. The serving of grits is perhaps too big even for a grown man, so it can easily be shared by the table.
Brunch isn't complete without a cocktail, and my spicy bloody mary was a great addition to a very pleasant meal. All in all a very nice surprise in the hood! I may not hit the bars of Va-Hi at night any more, but it's nice to know there's still something for me at Atkins Park!
*Full disclosure: Although my first meal was comped, I always endeavor to offer my unbiased opinion of the experience!
