The Bank Holiday weekend is coming up and it’s set to be a scorcher around the UK, so why not make the most of it by treating yourself to some fabulous brunch and cocktails with friends or family. We’ve handpicked the seven best cafes, bars and restaurants offering great service, even better food, and some delicious drinks to top it all off.
Credit: Instagram/@brewhemiaedin
Tucked at the exit of Edinburgh’s Waverley Station, Brewhemia is the perfect brunch option for travellers visiting the city for a weekend away. With a menu that boasts afternoon tea, Bavarian-inspired mains and sides and delicious cocktails, there’s something to suit all tastes.
Credit: Instagram/@brewhemiaedin
And if their food wasn’t good enough, their décor is something to be marvelled at, too. Set in one of Edinburgh’s oldest buildings, the team has incorporated gorgeous floral walls and beautiful artwork that you can enjoy alongside your lunch.
Book ahead for an afternoon tea and cocktails or enjoy their lunch menu that incorporates Bavarian flavours like schnitzels, weiner sausages and fresh, seasonal vegetables.
What makes it unique? Its freshly brewed beer that comes straight from the copper tanks that hang from the ceiling and flowers that adorn the entrance.
Price: ££
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Shoreditch isn’t short of swanky bars to choose from, but we’re particularly taken with Gloria, a ‘70s Capri-style Italian bar and restaurant with an explosive menu that blends traditional Italian eats with funky London style.
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Described as being decadent and vivacious, brunch at Gloria is an experience, with its sunshine yellow awnings, ivy-covered walls, and dozens of terracotta pots overflowing with foliage. Walk-ins are welcome, but the team advise booking in advance.
What makes it unique? Its lavish, larger than life dining rooms and stunning authentic Italian cuisine.
Price: ££
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For brunch with a difference, you can’t go far wrong with Bambalan, Bristol’s top North African and Mediterranean fusion restaurant. Not only is it situated in Colston Tower, so boasts a dreamy rooftop bar, but the dishes are bursting with colour and flavour that you’ll be pushed to find elsewhere.
Their menu offers delights like hummus and grilled pita, butternut squash arancini, sourdough pizzas made in-house and fresh salads. And the drinks are just as good, with options like the Royal Bambalan Beach Club, a rum, Aperol and lime juice number. Yum!
What makes it unique? The North African flavours, sangria by the jug and did we mention the al-fresco table tennis?
Price: ££
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Pitcher & Piano in Newcastle’s Quayside offers a slice of sophistication for your weekend socialising.
Their bottomless brunch offering is available every weekend, where you can enjoy any brunch dish with bottomless Prosecco, bellinis, mimosas and Aperol spritz.
Favourites include their tapas style dishes, sharer nachos and club sandwiches.
While away the afternoon in their gorgeous outdoor terrace, which has recently been upgraded to include umbrellas and marquees in case the weather takes a turn.
What makes it unique? Its fantastic value bottomless brunch option
Price: £
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For a slower start to your day, we love North Star Coffee, situated just a short 15-minute walk from the city centre, and boasting one of the best brews in Leeds, as well as fresh bakes from a local bakery and a brunch and lunch menu that’s updated seasonally.
Whether you’re visiting alone (with a book, of course!) or a friend, North Star is a great choice to ease in to the weekend.
What makes it unique? Their emphasis on great tasting coffee and supporting local producers
Price: £
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Situated in a former dancehall and cinema, Rendezvous is a cosy and quaint little café, which goes big on flavour. From salad bowls, to sandwiches, to soups, there’s something for everyone, and plenty of veggie options, too.
Favourites include their vegan cake, the French toast and the warm welcome from the friendly staff.
What makes it unique? The old Hollywood pictures that adorn the wall, a nod to the building’s past as a cinema.
Price: £
Credit: Instagram/@williamandflorence
Sat between the upmarket shops and cafes on Unthank Road, The William & Florence is a stunning gastropub that serves award-winning beers, cocktails and food.
Between 10am-2pm on weekends, you can enjoy their bottomless brunch, which includes food options like a Mexican, English or vegetarian breakfast, plus drinks on the side.
Or if you’re a bit more hungry, opt for their lunch menu, which includes gorgeous sharing boards and platters that you can get stuck into while you catch up.
What makes it unique? The Chesterfield sofas and vintage décor, plus award-winning drinks.
Price: ££
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