As Told Over Weezie's Brunch
*By Justin Brooks
When I see Weezie's Kitchen, I think, this is a place where you can come get a hangover. The Carytown dive bar sports a vibrant nightlife for the regulars of Cary St. and the Museum District. So it was a pleasant surprise that, in preparation for Richmond Brunch Weekend, I found that it's a place where you can also come to cure a hangover.
Now this part is important: when brunching, I recommend you bring a friend or two. Brunch by yourself is actually called lonely late breakfast, or sad early lunch in some countries. Good company is part of the experience, perhaps someone to help you piece together the previous night, and also someone to share your food with if you're lucky. Food taste better when you share!
When we get into Weezie's for brunch, the place is alive with an energy. It feels like the party is still going on from the night before. It was busy, but not super crowded. A short wait and we are able to grab some seats at the bar. Our host is quick with the coffee and conversation. The staff are welcoming and efficient with their space.
I know I should have ordered something more elegant, but as I explore Weezie's brunch menu something catches my eye.
The breakfast burrito is a heavy choice, but something about my condition called it to me.
My condition was not disappointed! Packed with protein in the form of eggs cheese and sausage, it was the cure. I also must note that it was well-constructed. The art of crafting a burrito might be lost on some, but I consider myself an expert. See, the key is in the distribution of ingredients. Nothing is worse than a burrito that is single ingredient bites from end to end. I could go on about burrito philosophy, but I must digress. It hit the spot, and I had to stop halfway through to make sure I had room to research other foods.
Let's not forget that brunch is a space where you can be as savory or as sweet as you please. I would not want to leave out some of the deserts we can pass off as meals in this special space.
Enter the French toast breakfast sandwich.
Alright, this dish actually blends savory and sweet, however the French toast itself was excellent. Thick, but not too thick, which is just how I enjoy life. And the syrup for dipping ensured sweetness in each bite.
Finally, at the recommendation of the staff, we ordered the daily special, which was a chicken biscuit.
Weezie's chicken biscuit did not disappoint. The fried chicken breast was done superbly, with a juicy inside, crunchy outside and a sweet syrup gluing it to the biscuit.
After I ordered, I enjoyed some conversation with regulars, who told me I should have ordered the pancakes. Food envy is the worst, so let's just call this one a missed opportunity. Next time, Weezie's.
I have to apologize, as the pictures might not do the food much justice. Weezie's Kitchen might not be winning any awards for plating, but I also don't think they were trying. My pictures are not winning any awards, either.
There are other ways to cure a hangover, and if you prefer the “hair of the dog that bit you” Weezie’s Kitchen has you covered with an array of drink specials. I will stick to the coffee, burritos and water for myself.
*Justin: A food wizard and ninja.