When rising early for breakfast on the weekend isn’t your favorite thing to do, brunch swoops in to save the day. And in spring, what better way to celebrate Mom — or Easter — than with a delectable brunch spread?
Luckily, Bellevue hosts a vibrant breakfast-meets-lunch scene that blends Pacific Northwest flavors with diverse culinary influences and local flair. Whether you’re in the mood for classic eggs benedict, fluffy soufflé pancakes, or a fresh seafood omelet, Bellevue's brunch spots cater to every palate. Choose from upscale eateries with stunning waterfront views, European-style cafes with artisanal coffee, and trendy spots known for an emphasis on regional ingredients. Relaxed yet sophisticated, Bellevue is an ideal destination to indulge in the memorable brunch experience you’re craving.
Modern Vietnamese eatery Monsoon serves a delightful dim sum brunch every Saturday and Sunday in Old Bellevue, with dishes that include such popular choices as shrimp dumplings, pork buns and Drunken Chicken. Not in the mood for dim sum? Choose from a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes such as Duck Confit Congee, many types of phở, and classic rice or vermicelli bowls. If you’ve never had Vietnamese iced coffee — sweetened with condensed milk — you’re in for a treat. Adult-beverage accompaniments include craft cocktails such as the French Pearl, made with vodka, Lillet, and elderflower, or the Bloody Alternative, made with gin, kümmel, phở broth, pineapple, and tomato.
At Bis on Main, diners can expect an elegant white-tablecloth experience with a distinct European slant, all in an intimate setting. Serving brunch on Saturday and Sunday, the menu runs the gamut from powdered sugar-dusted beignets to robust biscuits and gravy, quiche of the day to huevos rancheros, a soup du jour to salads such as the ahi nicoise. There’s even a Maine lobster roll. Cocktails such as the Hot Apple Pie, Breakfast Martini, or the Bis Bloody Mary, which is practically a meal (with loads of hearty garnishes), complement the menu nicely.
Did someone say bottomless mimosas? You’ll find that one-of-a-kind brunch phenom alive and well at Tem Sib Eatery & Bar — a modern-rustic Thai fusion venue near downtown. Kick off your weekend with brunch featuring dishes such as crepe cakes, crab omelets, ube (purple yam) toast, or kai kata, which are Thai-style eggs. For heartier appetites, the juicy Wagyu burger hits the spot. From 11 a.m. on, they also serve the regular menu alongside special brunch offerings. Craving some fresh air? Be sure to check out the large outdoor patio.
When you aren’t sure what you are in the mood to eat the morning after a late night, popular Gilbert’s on Main has got you covered. You’re sure to find something that suits your taste on their extensive menu. Well-known — and loved — for their liberally stacked Reuben sandwich, Gilbert’s also offers a large menu of brunch items such as generous scrambles, pancakes, waffles, and Benedicts, with a side of fantastic people-watching.
In addition to great food, enjoy stunning views from a 31st floor perch at Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi. Choose from elevated versions of such dishes as the Chicharron Chicken & Waffle served with maple and hot honey syrup, Pork Belly Hash with tonkatsu broth poached eggs, or their cinnamon roll reimagined as a pancake. Live large and order the Caviar, Salmon & Eggs as an à la carte brunch addition. Ascend also offers a fun, flavorful cocktail menu, including the Mang-Mosa, starring mango purée, and The Dude, which blends coffee and bourbon among other ingredients. Ascend knows how to put on a fancy spread, great for special-occasion brunches such as Mother’s Day. Enjoy live music every other Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Get a sampling of Aspire’s brunch service by joining Visit Bellevue Ambassador Nelson Yong as he pays the restaurant a mid-morning visit for The Vue.
At the refined yet welcoming The Lakehouse, weekend brunch puts the spotlight on seafood, so you’ll see dishes such as a Dungeness crab frittata and shrimp and grits on the menu, in addition to foods sourced from local growers. To make the most of those fresh, local ingredients, the seasonal menus change frequently. At brunch, expect to see fan favorites such as a giant cinnamon roll (made to share with the whole table) or the Lakehouse Chilaquiles. You’ll also spot inventive additions such as Japanese A5 Beef Pot Pie or Crumpet Benedict, made with pancetta cotta, truffled goat cheese, poached eggs, an everything-spiced crumpet, and topped with a classic hollandaise. At the Lakehouse, you can celebrate Easter with a special brunch menu that includes a brunch board for the table in addition to a selection of seasonal entrées.
Downtown Bellevue’s Farine Bakery & Café serves up French- and Belgium-inspired fare that will make you feel as if you’re visiting a European cafe. Enjoy flaky croissants (they make 1,000 a day in-house) served with creamy imported French butter, open-faced sandwiches called tartines, baguette sandwiches, Leige-style waffles, pastries, and more. The ever-popular Breakfast Sandwich features eggs, bacon, cheddar, and arugula and is served on — you guessed it — a delicious croissant. A popular community gathering spot, Farine also welcomes four-legged friends — on the heated-in-winter outdoor terrace, of course. And yes, there are mimosas.
For a quintessential cafe experience head to sleek Cafe Hagen Bellevue, where the warmth of Scandinavian hygge meets the Pacific Northwest, all with a dash of Japanese flair. In a departure from your normal cup of joe, you might start with a København Latte, featuring the signature notes of almond and cardamon. Breakfast offerings include Nordic smoked-cheese toast topped with cherry tomatoes and herbs, salmon mousse served with multigrain bread, and a variety of fresh-baked pastries such as Direktorsnegl — similar to a chocolate croissant — or the blueberry Danish, made with fresh berries. The weekend brunch board pops up on Saturdays and Sundays and features a sampling of their best — bacon, sausage, or mushrooms served with scrambled eggs with cheese, a Danish heart waffle with housemade jam, craft cheese, avocado, and fresh bread and butter.
Be sure to check each restaurant’s individual website (or call ahead) for special Mother’s Day or Easter brunch offerings.
