It’s funny how the simple practice of having breakfast on Sunday can reflect so many things about us. In fact, the word brunch, combining breakfast and lunch, certainly has a fascinating history. The first use of this new dietary term is traced back to an article published in Hunter’s Weekly in 1895. Brunch: A Plea by Guy Beringer supported Sunday brunches because they allowed Saturday night carousers to sleep in. Those in better shape found the meals, heavy on the meat side, to be exceptionally satisfying after a morning of fox hunting.
A year later an American newspaper article “The Newest Things in Lunches” explained that invitations to an 11 a.m. breakfast in exclusive neighborhoods were being received as social events. Presumably these meals were on the fancy side. We know for certain that Brunch had become an elegant affair as it was offered by the restaurants of the American South. Selections of French toast, seafood, omelets, coffee and wine were served by Begue’s of New Orleans.
As time went on champagne was added to the Brunch menu. Diners during the 1920s could expect to offered a Mimosa, Blood Mary, or Bellini with their eggs and waffles. Popular eating establishments became known for their extravagantly original and regional renditions of this morning meal. Within a decade or so Brunch had become a fashionable destination where members of the media photographed entertainment stars and industry giants alike.
By the late 1930’s Brunch had became a popular celebration of Easter at home right after church. Many families practiced fasting before religious services and had a good appetite by noon. Then in 1939 The New York Times announced that “Sunday is a two meal day” and serving brunch became a way for the middle class to save time and money. In time it became the routine for affluent families to frequent Sunday brunch buffets with great gusto for the huge spreads that Brunch had become. The television series, The Sex in the City, featured a weekly brunch for the four liberated gals to shared their problems and catch up on their gossip.
for this foursome to hang-out.
Now we ask ourselves how did a simple idea as Sunday Brunch become so engrained in our lives. The answer is that Sunday is a day of abundance and satisfaction. It feels good to share our blessings with family and friends on the day ruled by the Sun. Plus midday is the absolutely most powerful time of the day for the Sun’s benevolent influence and that settles everything.
Day of the Week Dining
Our favorite foods Sunday
through Saturday.