As Told Over 75 Center Brunch
Considering I go to Connecticut as infrequently as possible these days (it's a hellish commute up the eternally-congested 95 corridor), it's funny to think we have a 'regular' spot to go to brunch. Perhaps it's because it's relatively close, or because it's one of the only options with alcohol, or perhaps it's because Witchdoctor Brewing is right down the road. But any way it shakes out, I've been to 75 Center twice for brunch now and once for dinner, which statistically means it's the most likely place for me to brunch in Connecticut.
And I'm alright with that. More than alright, actually.
Among the many things I appreciate about my mother, one of best foodie qualities is her willingness to split one savory and one sweet dish with me. Both times I've been to 75 Center, we've paired up to make brunch dreams come true.
I'm finding it hilariously difficult trying to write basically a two-for-one brunch review, but the funniest part is how quickly we can settle into a routine.
Both times we've parked across the street in the parking lot and invariably made a comment about how many Subaru's were parked together. And then we wandered in, and I've been surprised about how busy it isn't.
Then, we've been sat immediately, I've pondered if I want a Bloody or Bellini, and selected the Bloody. Their Bloody Mary's are awesome because on the spear there's an olive, cucumber and lime. Stuck next to the spear is a large celery stick and bacon strip. It's a solid choice every time. My only critique is I like 'em spicy, but I probably could have asked for that.
The first time we went to brunch at 75 Center, we sat inside. It's a modern interior, with specials chalked on multiple boards around the space as the art. If you look behind the Bloody in the picture, you can see the industrial walls and exposed, natural wood contrast. Then there's a large bar with a million taps in the adjacent room.
The second brunch, we requested to sit outside. I love brunch on a patio, no matter if it's in Connecticut or Richmond. This patio wasn't large and did fill up quickly after we sat down.
75 Center Sweet Brunch Dishes
Both times I was more decisive than normal on what sweet dish I want to share. The first time was a cinnamon roll french toast, and the second time was a cannoli french toast. My mom subtly mentioned literally every other sweet dish on the menu as an option, but I was resolute.
I was also happy they happened to be french toast, as that's my mom's favorite brunch dish, so convincing her was easy.
Let's talk about the cannoli french toast: AMAZING. The dish featured two separate drizzles, almonds, powdered sugar, whipped cream and syrup on the side. It was an Instagram waiting to happen. It was really sweet, but that's the glorious part of getting only half a savory and half a sweet dish.
75 Center Savory Brunch Dishes
The savory dish the first time was easy to settle on, as my mom and I both exclaimed 'Cajun omelet' in unison. The second time was more challenging, as I wanted half the menu but also wanted to let my mom pick since I had demanded the cannoli french toast. I didn't do a GREAT job letting her pick alone though, as I heavily guided her to the croissantwhich or the Buenos Dias burrito (ground beef, queso cheese, jalapenos, corn, beans and eggs).
She did at least get the final say, and we went with the burrito. Mom's hesitation was the queso cheese, but I'm happy to report she did end up liking it. I loved it! Plus, the potatoes were heavily seasoned and the only time in modern history I legitimately didn't think potatoes needed ketchup.
One of my favorite things about 75 Center is their menu changes A LOT. There were a few staples (my brother and dad both got the Cajun omelet the second time), but a lot of the menu changed. Granted, I was away for a year at least, but it's really refreshing to see vastly different changes. Plus, they put unique twists on regular items, which I'm sure you could pick up on already when there's cannoli french toast on the menu. They have one item called the 'boring' bennie, which made me smirk, since it really was 'just' a normal bennie, but also shows the contrast in their food options. It makes it worth being a regular!
On the flip side, one of my least favorite things about 75 Center is how stupid I sound every time I try talking about it. I call it 75 Cent, and then realize I'm wrong and just half whisper 'er.' I suppose that's more of a me-issue though.
As Told Over Brunch in Connecticut
Thanks to our former intern, William Woznicki, for all the great Connecticut content!