Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident, currently working as a writer. She has a B.S. in Journalism from St. John's University and is active within her community working as a blogger and musician. She enjoys cooking, traveling, hiking and performing with her dad in their LI-based cover band, Next Generation. Joanna can be reached by e-mail at: joanna.adduci10@gmail.com. |
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There are very few rituals I enjoy as much as a leisurely, Sunday morning brunch. This Mother’s Day, I am treating my mom to a few hours of good food and handcrafted libations in a serene, chic atmosphere. I’ve been to my fair share of brunches, conquering every establishment from country inspired cottages in the Hamptons to hipster-driven gastropubs in Astoria. While I wouldn’t take my mother to some of my favorite artisanal eateries in Astoria and Williamsburg, I was sure to select a short list of places I believe she would genuinely appreciate. Let me preface this by saying that my mom is old school. She is also a very health-conscious customer. Therefore, I had to come up with a list of brunches that would offer flavorful, nutritious entrees, as well as the lavish, eccentric delicacies that I prefer to indulge in. I narrowed it down to Old Fields of Greenlawn, Tullulah’s of Bayshore and Café Joelle of Sayville. Old Fields is known for their classic, refined menu and atmosphere. Dishes that arrive in hearty cast iron skillets, and conversation that is enjoyed within a comfortable, warm environment with family and friends. My favorite brunch entrees include The Steak & Eggs, a delightful combination of marinated skirt steak, two fried eggs, biscuit, and breakfast spuds and The A.M. Shrimp & Grits which includes poached eggs, bacon, cheddar grits, & a biscuit. Tullulah’s of Bayshore is one of my favorite, and most personally-recommended brunches on Long Island. Everything from the urban, cozy atmosphere to the culinary details are recognized and appreciated by foodies and novices alike. The menu encompasses everything from classic Steak Frites to Fried Chicken and Waffle. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for the Bahn Mi or Corned Beef Hash. I can whole-heartedly promise that anything you order will be good. Their ingredients are high quality and their presentation is nothing short of immaculate. One piece of advice: make reservations in advance or you may not get in. Café Joelle is the type of classic eatery that foodies dream about. Simple and quaint, nestled on Main Street in Sayville, this restaurant is a must-try. Their brunch menu is straightforward and illustrative – comprised of classics such as Eggs Benedict and Buttermilk Pancakes. They also offer bold options such as Banana and Cream Cheese Stuffed Croissant French Toast and Eggs Oy Vey which is made up of two poached eggs, potato pancakes, smoked salmon and crème fraiche. I personally recommend the Eggs Benedict Joelle which consists of two poached eggs on a slice of filet mignon served on an English muffin topped with hollandaise sauce. This Mother’s Day opt for a lavish, charming late-morning meal to show mom how much you appreciate her. Whether you choose to enjoy your brunch at a quaint, cozy eatery or adventure into a more modern menu, make sure to enjoy good conversation, quality food and most importantly, remind mom how grateful you are for everything she does for you, all 365 days of the year. |