Posts from February 2020

Video games have grown from the nostalgic simplicity of Pong to the epic intricacy of Fortnite, generating $20 billion annually in the United States along. But with more than 5,000 new titles hitting the market recently, board games are enjoying a huge surge in popularity.

Whether you're looking for classics like Monopoly or checking out new games such as Ticket to Ride, you'll find something for everyone at these great game stores and cafés around Cleveland and beyond.

Tabletop Board Game Café

1810 W. 25th, Cleveland 44113

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Tabletop Board Game Cafe (@tabletopcleve) on Feb 3, 2020 at 6:13pm PST

If variety is the spice of life, Tabletop Board Game Café is as savory as it gets. With a library of nearly 1,000 games and a menu of upscale snacks and light meals, Tabletop is the pioneer of Cleveland's gaming community. Monthly events such as game clinics, mixers and trivia nights help you hone your skills while socializing with fellow game enthusiasts. Looking for a creative birthday party or shower theme? Tabletop's instructors will come to you with a customized assortment of games. Daily passes are $5, while a $25 membership includes five daily passes and a discounted rate of $3.50 afterward. Hours are 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Sunday.

The Malted Meeple

53 Milford Drive, Hudson 44236

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by The Malted Meeple (@maltedmeeple) on Dec 2, 2019 at 11:56am PST

The Malted Meeple sounds like a cool title for a game, but it's the next best thing: a lively hangout where family and friends can gather for some fun competition. During game time, grown-ups can enjoy wine, craft beer, or a creative theme drink such as Angry Fireball or Elektra's Elixir. Kids get their own beverage treats like Cherry Chimera, a cheesecake-flavored latte, or the appropriately-named Princess Leia cinnamon roll milkshake. Take game-playing to the next level in one of Malted Meeple's interactive escape rooms. Daily game fees are $5 per person, and annual individual or family memberships are available. Malted Meeple is open 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Friday, and noon - 2 a.m. Saturday.

Recess Games

26636 Brookpark Road Ext., North Olmsted 44070

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Robert & Emanuela (@tbltoptutorials) on Jan 19, 2020 at 6:37pm PST

Remember when you were a kid and recess was your favorite part of the day? Experience that same sense of joy at Recess Games. Shop from the wide selection of board games in stock and try before you buy with a test run in the gaming area. Whether you want to explore new game options or network with like-minded fans, Recess Games has a nearly daily schedule of Pokemon Weekly League, Pinochle Wednesdays, and other group events. Hours at Recess Games are 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.

Immortals Inc.

20545 Center Ridge Road, Suite LL38, Rocky River 44116

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Immortals Inc (@immortals_inc) on Jan 6, 2020 at 11:29am PST

You know the staff members at Immortals Inc. are passionate about their work when their bios are written as game descriptions. Their goal is to provide a clean, family-friendly store that's equally accessible to newbies and veteran gamers. Meet family and friends in Rusty Dragon Inn, a private gaming room set off from the retail space that accommodates up to 10 players. In addition to a 4' x 6' foot gaming table, amenities at Rusty Dragon Inn include a TV and refrigerator, gaming mats and a small private work area to "strategize." Fee is $25 for a four-hour block. Immortals Inc. is open from noon - 9 p.m. seven days a week.

Battlegrounds to Board Games

1314 Whipple Ave., NW, Canton 44708

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by D-von (@dvon0120) on Nov 19, 2019 at 1:26pm PST

Today's board games have come a long way from oldies-but-goodies such as Sorry!, Battleship, and Life. Battlegrounds to Board Games specializes in sophisticated tabletop war and role-playing games as well as collectible card games like Pokémon and Yu-gi-oh! Indulge your competitive spirit by joining in on one of BG2BG's tournaments or leagues. Tuesdays are Board Game Night when you can bring your own or have free play on one from the house library. Hours are noon - 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, noon - midnight Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.

Empire Game Center

9258 Market Square Drive, Streetsboro 44241

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Empire Game Center (@empiregamecenter) on Nov 21, 2019 at 11:49am PST

Magic: The Gathering is just over 25 years old, but's it's so inventive and influential that it was recently selected for induction into the National Toy Hall of Fame, alongside Matchbox Cars and coloring books. Empire Game Center specializes in Magic: The Gathering cards and play, with weekly booster drafts and games with various formats. Drop in to monthly Board Game Night for demos, specials, and open play with no charge. Store hours are 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. weekdays, with extended hours until midnight on Friday, and noon - 7 p.m. weekends.

Lakeshore Learning Store

27500 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood 44122

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Lakeshore Learning (@lakeshorelearning) on Nov 29, 2019 at 9:00am PST

Want to sneak some education into your kids' game time? Lakeshore Learning Store stocks a variety of colorful and entertaining board games for kids up to age 11 that teach math and reading while building problem-solving and motor skills. Plan a "field trip" on Saturday between 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. for free weekly craft sessions. Hours at Lakeshore Learning are 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.

Weird Realms

11508 Lorain Ave., Cleveland 44111

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Weird Realms (@weird.realms) on Dec 19, 2019 at 2:11pm PST

Weird Realms bills itself as "Cleveland's Nerd Store," but you'll feel totally hip browsing their collection of sci-fi books, comics, and collectibles in between rounds of the latest and greatest board games. Get a sneak peek at the next big thing at their pre-release parties. Can't find the game you're looking for? Weird Realms will order it for you, and throw in a discount to boot. Hours are Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. and noon - 8 p.m. weekends.

Critical Hit Games

13433 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights 44118

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Critical Hit Games (@criticalhitgames) on Dec 6, 2019 at 9:16am PST

Nearly every day, Critical Hit Games has a post about new tabletop games arriving in their store. While the current business of selling games is extremely lucrative, Critical Hit has a policy of not marking up inventory above regular price. In fact, many items are sold at a discount. When you visit, be sure to check out the faithful reproduction of the TARDIS from Doctor Who that serves as the restroom. Critical Hit is open from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday and 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Your Move

What game keeps you playing for hours at a time? Tell us about it!

Veganism isn't just a food preference — it's a lifestyle! For many people around the Columbus area, adhering to a diet of clean, sustainable foods is a way of life made possible through a variety of places offering vegan options.

Thankfully, gone are the days of salads being the only vegan items on popular restaurant menus. Today, there is an exceptional number of vegan and vegan-friendly eateries scattered throughout Columbus. Let's dig into these healthy habits and check out twelve awesome vegan restaurants around The Arch City.

Northstar Café

4241 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Northstar Cafe (@northstarcafe) on Dec 21, 2019 at 6:01am PST

Salads, burgers, pizza, burritos, bowls — there's a vegan item to satisfy your hunger at Northstar Café. Come in early for a healthy breakfast featuring housemade granola and breakfast potatoes. Northstar Café even has vegan options on their kid's menu! Bring your little ones in for a Northstar Burger or Little Buddah Bowl so they can eat healthy just like their parents! When it comes to accessible clean eating, Northstar Café tops the list for many Columbus vegans.

Oddfellows Liquor Bar

1038 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

While a liquor bar may not be your first thought for great vegan food, we encourage you to keep tabs on Oddfellows Liquor Bar. Every Monday, they feature a pop-up vegan restaurant with unbelievable pretzel bites, grilled cheeses, and chili. There's also an all-you-can-eat brunch complete with tofu scrambles and pancakes, among other vegan options.

Alchemy Café

1439 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by ALCHEMY (@alchemy.brands) on Dec 30, 2019 at 7:08am PST

Wellness-inspired food in a fast-casual café, Alchemy Kitchen and their Alchemy Café mix up savory foods and sweet drinks for vegans and non-vegans alike. For brunch, enjoy breakfast tacos, Tumeric bagels, and avocado toasts. For lunch and dinner, barbeque jackfruit, basil portobello, salads, and toasts are among their great offerings. Stop by for a meal, or if you're pressed for time, hit up the Alchemy Café for a delicious smoothie.  

Strongwater Food & Spirits

401 W. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Strongwater Food & Spirits (@strongwatercolumbus) on Dec 10, 2019 at 8:01am PST

One difficult challenge with clean eating is that, while many restaurants offer vegan items, they're usually quite limited to salads and such. Strongwater Food & Spirits offers upscale dining with fantastic vegan options that rival their non-vegan counterparts. The Black Bean Burger, Jackfruit Cake, Black and Blue Salad, Golden Beet Salad, Soba Noodle Salad, Pub Fries, and Sautéed Green Beans are available for lunch and dinner. This East Franklin gem provides you with a nice night out without having to worry about a limited vegan menu.

Portia's Café

4428 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Eesie (@isachandra) on Aug 25, 2015 at 3:20pm PDT

Known as Columbus' best vegan restaurant, Portia's Café caters to a variety of dietary lifestyles. Absolutely no animal products are used in any of their food, and all foods are gluten-free, GMO-free, organic, and made with clean water. Portia's has one of the largest vegan menus we've ever seen — soups, salads, dips, starters, wraps, bowls, pizzadillas, quesadillas, desserts, and drinks offer you endless options. Say hello to your new favorite vegan destination!

Brassica

680 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Brassica (@brassica.sandwiches.salads) on Dec 31, 2019 at 5:45am PST

The word 'brassica' is a genus of plants such as Brussels sprout and cabbage. The place Brassica in Columbus is a family-owned restaurant that knows the best way to prepare these healthy veggies for your vegan-friendly appetite. Pick a housemade pita and fill it with organic chickpeas, hummus, veggies, or even brassica fries. Simple food using fresh ingredients from local growers means clean eating at its finest.

Paulie Gee's in the Short North

1195 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by TJ Gibbs (@pauliegeesshortnorth) on Jan 25, 2020 at 12:36pm PST

Pizza is life, but if you live a vegan lifestyle, a good vegan pizza can be hard to come by. Thankfully, Paulie Gee's Short North serves up four pies full of awesome-sauce. Order a slice of Red, White, & Greenpeace with pickled red onion and post-over cashew milk or In Ricotta Da Vegan with house vegan sausage. When you're hungry enough to eat a whole pie, ask for the Vegan Supreme. Looking for a simple slice? Simply & Red is a straight-forward classic.

Pierogi Mountain

2216 Summit St., Columbus, OH 43201

If you're craving comfort food,  invites you to scale to the summit for unpretentious food with a twist. Filling options include vegan samosa, vegan kraut, butternut squash, roasted garlic, and vegan sausage. New varieties are baked every Tuesday, but the only place to find them is inside Café Bourbon. Pierogi Mountain pierogis are on the menu six nights a week and they're also available in take-home packages so you can savor Pierogi Mountain's delicious and diverse vegan flavors right in your kitchen.

Condado

132 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Condado Tacos (@condadotacos) on Sep 6, 2019 at 1:41pm PDT

What can be better than tacos, tequila, and margaritas? The convenience to build your own vegan tacos! While Condado's full menu isn't vegan, it highlights every item that is including tortillas, rice, veggies, sauces, and sides. If you don't want to build your own, you can confidently choose the Dutch Dragon, a double-decker with hard corn and soft flour shells, guacamole, grilled mushrooms, salsa verde, jicama, pickled jalapenos, tomatoes, and corn salsa. Rated the best tacos in Ohio by Thrillest, Condado is open late to fill your late-night vegan taco cravings.

Eden Burger

1437 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Eden Burger (@edenburgercbus) on Dec 23, 2019 at 8:33am PST

Looking for the best vegan food in Columbus? Eden Burger may hold the title. Their menu is 100 percent vegan so you can bring your appetite and leave your worry at home. Organic, plant-based ingredients are crafted into fast food favorites like burgers, wings, wraps, and sides that are too good to resist. Try a burger made with lentils, mushrooms, and rice or a breaded tempeh patty. Gluten-free buns are available as well for those with additional dietary restrictions. Be sure to swing by for brunch and enjoy breakfast burritos, loaded home fries, and donuts — all vegan and all delicious.

Comune

677 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43206

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Comune (@comune_restaurant) on Jan 28, 2020 at 6:00pm PST

What is plant-forward cuisine? Find out at Comune. They strive to create sharable dishes that are locally sourced and showcase satisfying flavors. Comune builds its menu from in-season ingredients, offering a taste of Ohio for a vegan diet. Chongqing Noodles, Banh Mi, and a Roasted Fennel Sandwich are fantastic lunch items, while the Pumpkin Sabzi, Grilled Stone Fruit, and Magic Chili Peanuts are on the menu for dinner. You'll also be pleased to know that they offer a selection of vegan wines to pair with your entrée.

Lalibela Restaurant

1111 S. Hamilton Road, Whitehall, OH 43213

Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine in the heart of Ohio at Lalibela Restaurant. Although most Ethiopian dishes include meat, Lalibela's menu has special vegan breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for every day of the week. The classic Gomen dish of collard greens with cottage cheese and Bamia with okra and berbere spice are local favorites, and the Ye Kik Alicha Wot split chickpea dinner is equally filling. They also have a full bar and billiards room if you're searching for a delicious vegan spot to spend the evening.

Fantastic Fare

Where is your favorite Columbus spot for vegan food? Let us know in the comments!

Whether you're catching up with good friends or enjoying a family get-together, a leisurely brunch is the perfect setting. Sweet or savory? Coffee or mimosas? No problem. Brunch menus feature something to satisfy all tastes.

Plan your next weekend (or weekday—we won't judge) brunch at one of these great spots around Canton.

Cultured Coffee & Waffles

309 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Cultured Coffee & Waffles (@culturedcoffeeco) on Jan 29, 2020 at 8:03am PST

Brunch and waffles go together like—well, eggs and bacon. Cultured Coffee & Waffles in downtown Canton has the waffle of your dreams, along with several you haven't even dared to imagine. Oreo Cheesecake, Reese's Peanutbutta and Banana Bomb are self-explanatory. If you're feeling adventurous, try the Mexican Street Waffle with cane sugar, cinnamon, and cream cheese icing, or the Scout Waffle prepared s'mores-style. Cultured Coffee also has classic chicken and waffles along with savory stuffed waffles such as grilled cheese and pizza. Hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday, but the menu is served all day long so brunch is whatever time you choose.

Twisted Citrus

1649 N. Main St., North Canton 44720

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Twisted Citrus (@twistedcitrusohio) on Mar 14, 2017 at 12:07pm PDT

The name of Twisted Citrus promises something fresh and fun, and they don't disappoint. Spaghetti for brunch? Hangover Pasta includes bacon, parmesan, spinach, fresh basil, and a poached egg. Eggs Benedict comes in half-a-dozen varieties, such as Benny en Fuego with jalapeño corn cakes, chorizo, pepper jack cheese, and sriracha hollandaise. Breakfast sandwiches go beyond the Egg McMuffin with options like Ballpark Buster with sausage, bacon, eggs, American and Provolone cheese, and stone-ground mustard on a pretzel bun. Twisted Citrus is open 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Sunday.

Burntwood Tavern

4320 Everhard Road NW, Canton 44718

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Burntwood Tavern (@burntwoodtavern) on Sep 22, 2019 at 7:38am PDT

The warm, rustic ambiance of Burntwood Tavern at Belden Village is so inviting that you may find yourself staying through to dinner. Reclaimed barn wood and a pounded copper-topped bar create a genuine tavern feel. The extensive brunch menu features traditional breakfast dishes along with sandwiches, salads, and entrées such as lobster ravioli. In the mood for variety? Choose several of the small-plate starters like Tavern tater tots and smoked brisket tacos. Brunch is served every weekend from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 

George's Lounge

229 Cleveland Ave., Canton 44702

George's Lounge has been a beloved staple of Canton's Arts District since 1959. The regular menu includes hearty "geormet" burgers and hand-cut fries and chips with a number of tasty toppings and sauces, but on Saturday between 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., some delicious brunch specials join the party. George's beer cheese Benedict and fresh-baked maple biscuits with homemade sausage gravy are just two of the dishes to choose from. Throw in live music from noon - 2 p.m. and George's is THE place to be on Saturdays.

First Watch

5075 Dressler Road NW, Canton 44718

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sheila Laux (@20creativenails) on Oct 26, 2019 at 11:12am PDT

 
When you visit the website of First Watch, you're greeted with the words, "Whether you want breakfast for lunch or lunch for breakfast, we're here for you." Can brunch be described more perfectly? First Watch has a culinary philosophy of satisfying healthy and indulgent cravings equally well. The former includes whole-grain avocado toast and fruit-topped coconut milk chia seed pudding, while more decadent choices might be Floridian brioche French toast and the Works omelet with ham, bacon, sausage, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and Cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses. First Watch is open 7 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Crêpe Break

4593 Belden Village St. NW, Canton 44718

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Crêpe Break (@crepebreakbeldenvillage) on Apr 19, 2018 at 7:38am PDT

While Crêpe Break is relatively new to Canton's restaurant scene, they've already attracted plenty of fans with their brunch-on-the-go concept. If you're unfamiliar with crêpes (and doesn't everything sound more elegant with a French name?), they're delicate, pancake-like vessels that can be rolled and filled with any number of ingredients. All crêpes at Crêpe Break are made to order and served in a paper cone for easy portability. Choose from breakfast, savory, sweet, salad, or build-your-own crêpes. Grand crêpier Shelley Shertzer-Grabill has named her signature flavors after her grandchildren. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday.

Susanna's Olde-Fashioned Dining

707 S. Main St., North Canton 44720

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Michael Vito Ciraco (@ciraco_nyy_2_13) on Jan 28, 2018 at 4:30am PST

When it comes to food, "old-fashioned" means comforting and reliable, and that's exactly what you get at Susanna's Olde-Fashioned Dining. Their eggs Benedict is praised by many as the best in town, while others go for the variety of French toast flavors, such as sweet peach and banana split. A different type of quiche is offered each day, and friendly servers will treat you just like family. Susanna's is open from 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, and 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sunday.

Hazel and Rye

220 Market Ave. S., Suite 110, Canton 44702

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by 220 Market Ave S, Canton OH (@hazelandryeartisanbakery) on Jan 21, 2020 at 3:08am PST

Even if you're not hungry when you walk in the door at Hazel and Rye, the mouth-watering aroma of their fresh artisanal baked goods will quickly whet your appetite. Owners Emily Welk and Mike Moegling truly embrace the concept of family-owned and operated, treating each customer as part of their extended family. Along with the aforementioned baked goods, Hazel and Rye offers a selection of made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and wraps. Need bagels or muffins for a work meeting or at-home brunch? Special orders are welcome. Hazel and Rye is open weekdays from 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Lindsey's Restaurant

1900 Tuscarawas St. W., Canton 44708

One happy customer described a visit to Lindsey's Restaurant as "a great cozy feeling as if I just woke up and went over to my grandmother's for breakfast." That's exactly the experience this comfortable, unpretentious place wants to provide. Customers become regulars thanks to the consistent quality of home-cooked favorites such as biscuits and gravy and the breakfast casserole with eggs, hash browns, cheese, onions, peppers, and ham. Lindsay's doors are open from 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. weekdays, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, and 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday. Breakfast is served all day.

The Café at Michael D's

1407 Whipple Ave. NW, Canton 44708

The Promenade at Michael D's is a diner's dream comprised of a sports bar, grille, café, and pizzeria in a single block. It's always time for brunch at The Café at Michael D's, which serves breakfast and lunch favorites, including Stewie's homemade soup, in a relaxed, low-key setting. Manager Sophie Capuano owned the restaurant in its original incarnation as the Whipple Café. As a result, she has formed friendly relationships with the regulars, creating a "Customer of the Month" award with 30 days of free meals. Do you need any more incentive to stop in? Hours are 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. daily.

To Brunch is Divine

Did we miss your favorite brunch spot? Tell us about it!