As an avid lover of brunch, I am always searching for the next universe-altering version of my favorite breakfast food: French toast. Now, it’s difficult to mess up this Sunday morning staple, but it’s equally as difficult to find a French toast recipe so satisfying, it leaves you speechless with the exception of a dazed, drawn-out “mmmm.” Well I found it at The Beehive.
Photo by Sophie Clingan-Darack
At a first glance, The Beehive looks unassuming with its simple sign engraved with just the letter “B” hidden within The Boston Center for the Arts complex on Tremont Street in Boston’s South End neighborhood. But if you decide to venture inside the plain black double doors, you’ll find the swankiest boho-chic restaurant in Boston. Stepping inside The Beehive is like entering a cozy bohemian haven complete with theatrical drapery framing funky local artwork, custom-made bars, and the sound of some incredible local jazz bands. Follow the sound of Prohibition-era jazz melodies and descend the carpeted staircase into the lower level. Here, three groupings of tables are situated around a small stage featuring a two-man jazz band serenading diners as they indulge in eggs Benedict, smoked salmon scrambled eggs and the most heavenly-smelling French toast I have ever experienced.
Photo by Rachel DeSimone
The Beehive provides a truly unique dining experience, offering Saturday and Sunday morning customers a variety of decadent brunch creations like the truffled potato and cheese pierogies with caramelized onions and sour cream, all while listening to jazz music that even EDM-loving college students will enjoy. These creamy Polish dumplings melt in your mouth, provoking exclamations like “are these even real” and “I don’t know what a pierogi is but it’s my new favorite food.” Sharing an appetizer of pierogies before ordering one of the delectable “mains” is not only my recommendation, but also the recommendation of every friendly employee at The Beehive.
Photo by Rachel DeSimone
As far as “mains” go, the thick-cut French toast with Chantilly whipped cream and berries is first on the menu for a reason: it’s both a customer and employee favorite. Cinnamon sugar crusted and soft and scrumptious on the inside, the French toast is an absolute delight to eat. Other notable items on the brunch menu include the classic eggs Benedict, the smoked salmon scrambled eggs and the short rib grilled cheese for those of you oddballs who prefer lunch over brunch.