Brunch isn’t just a meal for when you wake up too late for breakfast but can’t hold off your hunger until lunch. Oh no no no. Brunch is an event. Every brunch has an objective, whether it’s catching up with an old friend, celebrating an achievement, or ringing in a holiday. Brunch usually involves some premeditated actions to ensure your meal properly fits its objective, such as choosing what to wear, who to go with, and what time of day to go. But the most important part of brunch is choosing the location, as it determines not only the cuisine, but the overall atmosphere and vibes.
If you live in the Rochester area, you no longer have to choose the location. My advice? Eat at The Revelry. You’ll thank me later.
Photo by Charlotte Wells
Last Sunday, my friend and I were on the hunt for a new brunch spot in Rochester. We demanded two things: an indulgent meal, and a place that had no resemblance to our dormitory – where we habitually eat our meals. Bored of the options our small college town offered, we decided to venture into Rochester, and after much research decided to make a reservation at The Revelry. We left with very full stomachs and very happy souls.
From the outside, The Revelry is a grand brick building with large windows, giving off a simple, vintage feel with modern updates. It’s located at the front of a strip mall, which is a little off-putting, but once you step inside any unpleasant feelings are left in the parking lot. The space is broken up between two floors, with a bar upon entering and the dining area on the second floor. And if you happen to look at the floor while checking in with the hostess, you’ll be surprised to gaze through glass to see there’s a wine cellar below your feet. Both floors have an open concept design, with a comfortable yet contemporary vibe, making you feel like you’re in the heart of a city rather than a parking lot in Rochester.
Photo courtesy of @tcpellett on Instagram
We were immediately welcomed with menus and water upon sitting down, and as our coffee was poured into our cups our eyes poured over the menu. Plates kept passing by, and every dish looked enticing. We decided to start with the pecan sticky buns, which were massive in both size and taste. Scraping the bottom of the pan for the gooey, caramel remnants was a pure moment, or many moments, of bliss. We then each ordered a breakfast sandwich. But this was no ordinary breakfast sandwich. The sausage and English muffins were house made, the eggs were from a local farm, and a fig chutney joined the mix to compliment the rich, savory flavors; small details, but they had a big impact on improving the quality of the dish.
Photo by Charlotte Wells
The dining area was relatively small, but the tables were full of guests for the majority of our meal, adding a lively buzz to the atmosphere. The service was a little slow, but a true brunch should never be rushed, plus the staff made up for it with their consistently friendly and helpful attitudes. One important note is that they do not serve alcohol until 12, so if you’re hankering for a mimosa, either be prepared to enjoy some coffee until the clock strikes noon, or make your reservation at an accommodating time.
As we stood up from our table to leave, satiated from both the food and the overall experience, we were already thinking of when we could come back next. Skip Denny’s and the diner. Go here.