The best brunch spots in Back Bay have earned quite a reputation. Atlantic Fish Co boasts over 5,000 glowing reviews, while Flour Bakery maintains an impressive 4.5-star rating among local food enthusiasts.
Rochambeau’s French-inspired dishes on Boylston Street and Flour Bakery’s famous Boston Cream Pie make these establishments stand out. The Friendly Toast attracts weekend crowds eager to sample their morning specialties. Meanwhile, lesser-known spots like Buttermilk & Bourbon delight guests with delicious mac and cheese and fresh biscuits, earning a solid 4.1-star satisfaction rate.
Our team has thoroughly evaluated these top-rated establishments to create a reliable guide to Back Bay’s finest breakfast and brunch spots. Your next weekend feast awaits at one of these outstanding locations.
The Friendly Toast: A Colorful Brunch Experience on Boylston Street
The Friendly Toast stands as the life-blood of Back Bay’s brunch scene. This popular eatery at 35 Stanhope St draws crowds with its retro charm and all-day breakfast offerings. The place brings a burst of color and creativity to Boston’s brunch scene.
Signature Breakfast Classics and Creative Twists
The Friendly Toast’s menu shines with traditional favorites and imaginative culinary creations. Their Classic Breakfast has two eggs prepared in any style, your choice of breakfast meat, and toast for $12.10. The Back Bay brunch spot sets itself apart with its flair for the unexpected.
The crowd loves “Maaaaaaaa!!!! The Meatloaf Benny,” which comes on thick oatmeal toast with house meatloaf, two perfectly poached eggs, hollandaise, and sriracha glaze for $14.00. The dish comes with home fries that pack a subtle spicy kick.
Another favorite dish is the “King Cakes” – two mini banana and chocolate chip pancakes topped with bacon, finished with peanut butter drizzle and whipped cream for $13.50. These pancakes hit that sweet spot between fluffy and moist that brunch lovers crave.
Savory food fans will notice the Hash Quiche has got lots of attention with 86 reviews and 104 photos on Yelp. Other menu favorites include:
- Monster Breakfast (72 photos, 76 reviews)
- Breakfast Burrito (48 photos, 76 reviews)
- Huevos Rancheros (35 photos, 51 reviews)
- Irish Benny (48 photos, 50 reviews)
Each dish shows the restaurant’s steadfast dedication to generous portions and bold flavors. People love the home fries for being “potato-y” and packed with flavor.
Vibrant Atmosphere and Decor
The Friendly Toast fascinates guests right at the door with its eye-catching esthetic. Vivid colors, quirky artwork, and interesting signage create a memorable dining space.
The restaurant’s design nods to classic American diners with furniture that reminds you of old-fashioned eateries. The walls showcase an eclectic mix of vintage pieces and conversation starters – you’ll keep finding new visual treasures throughout your meal.
This Back Bay brunch spot fosters a lively, bustling atmosphere filled with cheerful chatter. Guests often describe the environment as:
- “Cool and eclectic”
- “Bustling” with “lively chatter”
- “Bright with vivid colors”
- “Hipster,” “casual,” and “trendy”
The colorful surroundings and retro vibe create the perfect backdrop for weekend gatherings and family celebrations. The restaurant makes good use of its space despite not being huge.
Weekend Wait Times and Reservation Tips
Here’s the key fact: The Friendly Toast doesn’t take traditional reservations. Smart brunchers can still cut down their wait with some planning.
Peak weekend hours, especially after 10 am, usually mean waiting 1-2 hours. A sample day showed 27-42 minutes on the Yelp waitlist. You can save time with these tactics:
- Join the digital waitlist ahead: Use The Friendly Toast website or Yelp app to get in line before arriving.
- Ask for bar seating: Bar spots can cut your wait time by a lot. The bar seats are comfortable and well-spaced.
- Show up early: Getting there before the weekend rush (before 10 am) can slash your wait time.
- Try weekdays: Flexible schedules mean weekday brunch gives you the same great food with less waiting.
A recent visitor said, “Yes, brunch is always available at the friendly toast. Definitely join the waitlist through their website prior to arrival. It will cut your wait time down to almost nothing”.
Must-Try Bloody Mary Bar
A proper Back Bay brunch needs great cocktails, and The Friendly Toast delivers. Their Toast Classic Bloody Mary costs $12.00 and mixes vodka with their house bloody mary mix.
The drink comes beautifully presented with a “succulent celery stalk and a perfectly seasoned rim”. First-timers often praise its “tangy kick and well-balanced flavors” that show careful crafting to “satisfy even the most refined taste buds”.
The Friendly Toast offers a Bloody Mary Holly Side for just $1.65. Beyond bloody marys, try their raspberry mimosas that blend “tangy raspberries and crisp champagne”.
Guests love how the drinks complement the food menu. This perfect brunch combo explains why this Back Bay spot stays busy despite weekend waits.
The Friendly Toast gives you the perfect mix of comfort food classics and creative brunch dishes in a setting that’s as memorable as its menu. It’s ideal whether you’re recovering from Saturday night or starting a Sunday of Boston adventures.
Stephanie’s on Newbury: The Classic Back Bay Brunch Destination
Stephanie’s on Newbury has been a Boston Back Bay staple since 1994. Owner Kathy Sidell describes their food as “sophisticated comfort food” served in a relaxed yet elegant setting. The restaurant sits at the corner of Newbury and Exeter Streets. Locals and tourists alike flock to this beloved brunch spot for a true Boston dining experience.
Famous Comfort Food Brunch Menu
The weekend brunch menu at Stephanie’s takes American classics and raises them to new heights. Diners can enjoy these delicious offerings Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Each dish strikes the right balance between comfort and sophistication.
Their egg dishes draw crowds of breakfast lovers:
- Eggs Benedict ($18.00) – Featuring poached eggs, smoked ham, and lemon hollandaise served atop a Wolferman’s English muffin with home fries
- Skillet Breakfast ($19.00) – A generous plate of two eggs any style, smoked bacon, maple sausage, and baked cheddar home fries
- Carnitas Scramble ($19.00) – A flavorful combination of crispy carnitas, scrambled eggs, caramelized onions, cheddar, pico de gallo, guacamole, and salted corn chips
Sweet-toothed guests love the buttermilk griddle pancakes ($18.00) with maple syrup and cinnamon honey butter. Blueberries or chocolate chips can be added for just a dollar more. The cinnamon monkey bread ($9.00) makes a perfect starter to share.
Seafood lovers can upgrade their Eggs Benedict with Maine lobster for an extra $10. The smoked salmon platter ($20.00) comes with a toasted bagel, sliced tomato, red onion, fried capers, and whipped cream cheese.
Seasonal Patio Dining Experience
Stephanie’s outdoor seating ranks among Back Bay’s most sought-after brunch spots. A subtle fence separates the spacious Newbury Street patio from the sidewalk.
Metal rose gold tables and comfortable tan wicker chairs fill the outdoor space. Plenty of umbrellas provide shade on sunny days, creating the perfect summer brunch setting.
The patio’s main attraction is people-watching. One guest noted, “In nice weather, restaurant patio seating is packed with Bostonians and tourists alike soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the food”. This spot has become the go-to place for “friendly summer meals, refreshing cocktails and people watching”.
The restaurant takes reservations for indoor dining, while the patio seats guests on a first-come basis. Both areas offer the same full-service experience.
Sunday Brunch Crowd and Atmosphere
Sunday mornings buzz with energy at Stephanie’s. The weekend crowd creates a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe that matches the upscale neighborhood.
The interior features an elegant gray-blue palette with retro-patterned booth fabric. Their design philosophy shows “casual elegance at its best”.
The space offers distinct dining areas:
- A sky-lit main dining room
- A fashionable sidewalk café
- A popular bar and lounge overlooking Exeter Street
Guests praise the attentive, friendly staff who ensure drinks stay full and food arrives quickly. The core team works efficiently even during peak brunch hours.
New visitors should know their entire party must be present before seating. The restaurant doesn’t allow pets in either the patio or dining room.
Signature Brunch Cocktails
Back Bay brunches need great cocktails, and Stephanie’s delivers. Their weekend drink menu features standout options that pair perfectly with their comfort food.
The Stephi’s Espresso Martini leads their signature drinks, mixing vodka, fresh brewed espresso, Bailey’s and coffee liqueur. Their rosé selection shines with seasonal sangria that blends rosé vodka, sparkling rosé, raspberry, and lemon.
More cocktail highlights include:
- Blood Orange Cosmo ($16.00) – Orange vodka, blood orange, and citrus
- Stephi’s Paloma ($16.00) – Tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, and grapefruit soda
- Blackberry 75 – A refreshing blend of gin, thyme, and sparkling wine
Whiskey lovers appreciate the Exeter Manhattan with its mix of rye, vermouth, chartreuse, and bitters. The house-infused pineapple vodka (Doli House) offers a simpler yet flavorful choice.
Stephanie’s on Newbury embodies the perfect Back Bay brunch experience. The restaurant continues to draw diners with its consistent quality, comfortable atmosphere, and prime location, even as Boston’s food scene evolves.
Sonsie: European-Style Brunch with Back Bay Elegance
For over thirty years, Sonsie has made its home on Boston’s famous Newbury Street. This European-inspired dining spot brings a taste of continental charm to Back Bay. Beautiful French doors and an elegant setting make this brunch spot stand out from the crowd.
French-Inspired Brunch Offerings
The menu at Sonsie blends classic brunch dishes with French culinary flair. Their Croque Monseur brings authentic Parisian café flavors right to your table. New guests often go for the Eggs Benedict – each egg comes perfectly poached and draped in silky hollandaise sauce.
Got a sweet tooth? The Tempura French Toast might be your thing. You’ll find it topped with:
- Fruity pebbles coating
- Strawberry compote
- Fresh berries
- Cereal milk anglaise
Rafael Sau’s Chilaquilles pack a flavor punch with chorizo, pico de gallo, avocado, radish, cilantro, ranchero sauce, black beans, queso fresco, and a perfectly fried egg on top. The Smoked Salmon Tartine looks like art on a plate – it comes on Iggy’s 7 Grain toast with dill miso cream cheese, tomatoes, capers, arugula, and lemon.
The Sonsie Burger hits the spot with Calabrian pepper aioli, cheddar cheese, bread and butter pickles, and smoky bacon – a great savory option for brunch. They serve avocado toast too, though some guests say it has “too much tomato sauce”.
Chef Jason Hanelt keeps things fresh with new flavors and clever food combinations as seasons change. His global approach to cooking has won awards and created quite a following among Boston’s brunch lovers.
Wine Selection and Mimosa Options
Sonsie lives up to its “American Bistro and Wine Bar” name with a serious wine program. A temperature-controlled glass wine cellar sits in their elegant Wine Room downstairs.
The brunch drink menu has something for everyone:
- Classic or spicy Bloody Marys
- Cold Brew Irish Coffee for caffeine enthusiasts
- Traditional mimosas and bellinis
- The eye-opening “Wake Your Ass Up Margarita” (blanco tequila, Cantera negra coffee tequila, espresso, and lime)
Big groups can share “Drinks for the Table” – perfect for special celebrations. Their “Bucket of Bubbles” pairs great with French toast or egg dishes.
The Espresso Martini, topped with three coffee beans, has become their signature drink. Friendly and knowledgeable bartenders make every drink special at this Back Bay spot.
People-Watching from the Famous Window Seats
The magnificent French doors that open onto Newbury Street make Sonsie special. These doors turn the place into an open sidewalk café when the weather’s nice.
Sunlight streams through large windows during brunch, creating a warm vibe. Lucky guests who snag window seats get exceptional street views. One guest mentioned, “The French doors were open and added a nice touch to our dining experience”.
European charm meets modern style inside. The main floor features a dining area, full bar with high-top tables, European-style café, and a charming wood-fired pizza kitchen. Exposed brick walls and candlelit tables create a cozy yet stylish spot that works for casual meals or special occasions.
Soft classical music plays during brunch, helping guests relax as they eat. This attention to detail explains why Sonsie remains a top pick for locals and tourists looking for a relaxed yet sophisticated Back Bay brunch.
Weekday vs. Weekend Brunch Experience
Sonsie stands out by serving brunch five days a week – something rare in Boston. They serve Wednesday through Sunday, giving weekday visitors the same great options usually saved for weekends.
Weekday brunch runs from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM (Wednesday through Friday). You’ll find professionals, shoppers, and tourists enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere with shorter waits.
Weekend brunch goes from 9:30 AM until 3:30 PM Saturday and Sunday. The place comes alive as groups gather to celebrate or just enjoy good food together. Sundays bring a younger, livelier crowd.
You’ll want to book ahead no matter when you visit. Brunch at Sonsie fills up fast, especially those window seats and outdoor tables in nice weather. Call (617) 351-2500 or book online.
Coming on weekdays or right when they open on weekends gives you the best shot at getting seated quickly. Saturdays and Sundays get busy after 10:30 AM.
One happy customer said it best: “I’d bring anyone visiting Boston to this place for brunch—very safe decision!”. The mix of European atmosphere, creative food, and prime Back Bay location makes this spot one of the neighborhood’s must-try brunch experiences.
Flour Bakery + Cafe: Quick and Delicious Back Bay Breakfast
Flour Bakery + Cafe shines as a Back Bay gem where crowds flock for amazing pastries and quick breakfast bites. This local favorite boasts a 4.5-star rating from 676 reviews and ranks #4 among Boston’s bakeries. Pastry chef Joanne Chang built Flour on a simple belief: “Baking is love”.
Pastry Selection and Morning Buns
New visitors can’t help but marvel at Flour’s pastry display packed with sweet and savory delights. Their legendary sticky sticky bun ($5.25) steals the show with dark, sticky caramel and toasted pecans. Bobby Flay learned this the hard way when the sticky bun emerged victorious on Food Network’s “Throwdown” show.
Sweet tooth? Take your pick from:
- Scones ($4.50) – currant-spelt-oat, lemon ginger, and parmesan chive
- Muffins ($4.50) – blueberry and seasonal flavors
- Pain aux raisins ($4.50) with vanilla pastry cream and golden raisins
- Brown butter cinnamon rolls ($5.25) topped with tangy cream cheese frosting
Chocolate lovers rave about the chocolate chocolate chip cookies. One customer said they’re “encrusted with miniature molten chocolate soufflés”. Regulars often pop in just for their sticky bun fix. “I would only go back to have their sticky bun, which is delicious,” one reviewer shared.
Savory Breakfast Sandwiches
Sweet treats put Flour on the map, but their savory breakfast items now share the spotlight. Their breakfast egg sandwich ($10.50) leads the pack. This hefty creation lets you pick bacon, ham or sausage, plus cheddar, arugula, tomato, and dijonnaise.
Flour’s special egg preparation makes this sandwich unique. They create an egg soufflé that’s “fluffy yet firm enough so that it does not fall apart while eating the sandwich”. Customers can’t stop raving, calling it “OUT OF THIS WORLD” and “huge and delicious”.
More savory breakfast choices include:
- Baked French Toast ($3.50/slice) with French focaccia and real maple syrup
- Avocado toast ($13.00) topped with poached egg, pickled fresno chili, and cotija cheese
- Bialys ($5.00) loaded with cheddar pimento and candied jalapeño
One customer described their unique take on French toast: “a bit unique… more dense and rich than regular French toasts out there” with “all the fluffy goodness condensed into this smaller, flatter form”.
Coffee Program and Specialty Drinks
Quality drinks match Flour’s fantastic food. Coffee snobs give their brews two thumbs up. One customer gushed: “incredible coffee, some of the best i’ve had, and that’s saying a lot cause i am a coffee LOVER”.
Drink options feature:
- Lattes (small $3.50) that are “nice and strong with great aroma”
- London Fog tea
- Housemade raspberry seltzer that customers “could have gallons of”
- White Chocolate Hot Cocoa that’s “mouth-watering”
Groups can order coffee boxes ($36.00 each) serving 8-10 people in medium roast, dark roast, or decaf. Hot chocolate boxes ($48.00) and MEM Tea ($36.00) round out the group options.
Grab-and-Go Options for Busy Mornings
Flour stands out in Back Bay for its quick service that suits busy weekday schedules. Peak hours bring crowds, but “service is quick and worth it”.
Smart regulars skip lines by using the Flour app. “I typically order via the app and that is a quick and easy way to order,” shared one customer. Another added, “I use the app to place orders and pick up my orders”.
Flour’s careful packaging earns extra points: “My food was labeled and packaged perfectly, and it was all delicious”. Back Bay professionals love getting quality breakfast without long waits.
Newcomers might need a minute to figure out that “some items are brought to you and others you’re supposed to pick up from the counter”. Most customers agree this small learning curve is worth it for Back Bay’s finest breakfast spot.
Rochambeau: French Flair for Your Back Bay Brunch
Rochambeau brings a slice of Paris to Boston’s Back Bay brunch scene. You’ll find this chic French brasserie right next to the Prudential Center at 900 Boylston Street. The spot quickly became a weekend favorite for anyone craving European flair with their morning meal.
Parisian Brunch Atmosphere
Stepping into Rochambeau feels like walking into a bustling Parisian café. The restaurant lets you watch chefs at work through its open kitchen views. Its design strikes a perfect balance between elegance and comfort, making it great for both special occasions and relaxed weekend gatherings.
“The lively ambiance makes an ideal setting for brunch,” says one regular visitor. Natural light pours through large windows, keeping the space bright and welcoming even on gloomy Boston mornings.
Many first-time guests love the restaurant’s location. The spot sits close to Newbury Street shops and MBTA stations, making it perfect for meeting friends after a shopping spree.
Signature Egg Dishes and French Toast
The brunch menu showcases French twists on morning favorites. Their eggs Benedict ($20) comes with two perfectly poached eggs on French ham, topped with hollandaise and served with brunch potatoes. Duck confit hash with harissa hollandaise and poached eggs gives a flavorful spin to breakfast classics.
Sweet options that guests love:
- Lemon ricotta pancakes with market berries, citrus crème, and maple syrup
- French toast with Nutella cream, banana, feuilletine, and aged rum anglaise
- Seasonal treats like eggnog buttermilk pancakes with cinnamon cream and gingersnap crumble
The kitchen blends traditional French techniques with familiar flavors to create dishes that feel both sophisticated and comforting.
Bucket of Bubbles and Cocktail Program
The “Bucket of Bubbles” ($50) stands out among Rochambeau’s brunch offerings. This shareable champagne service comes with various juices to mix your own mimosas. It’s a hit for celebrations or just making your weekend extra special.
The drink menu features:
- Classic mimosas ($12)
- Bloody Marys ($15)
- French-inspired options like Kir Royale ($14)
- Specialty drinks including “Le Peche” ($18) and “French Exit” ($18)
Coffee lovers can enjoy expertly crafted espresso drinks that pair perfectly with the pastry selection.
Two-Level Dining Experience
Rochambeau stands out from other Back Bay brunch spots with its two-floor setup. The main dining room sits upstairs while the primary bar area takes up the lower level. Each floor creates its own unique vibe.
“With two levels, the upstairs as the main dining room and the downstairs as the main bar, the tables are spacious, allowing you and your party to have intimate conversations,” notes one reviewer.
The restaurant also offers outdoor seating when weather permits. Guests can enjoy their French-inspired brunch while watching the buzz of Boylston Street.
Brunch runs Friday through Sunday from 11am until 4pm, giving plenty of time for a relaxed meal. Making reservations helps secure a spot during busy weekend hours.
Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Location | Price Range | Signature Dishes | Atmosphere | Wait Times/Reservations | Notable Drinks |
| The Friendly Toast | 35 Stanhope St | $12-14 | Classic Breakfast ($12.10), Meatloaf Benny ($14.00), King Cakes ($13.50) | Charming retro decor with bright colors and unique artwork | Weekend waits stretch 1-2 hours, walk-in only | Toast Classic Bloody Mary ($12.00), Raspberry Mimosas |
| Stephanie’s on Newbury | Newbury & Exeter Streets | $16-20 | Eggs Benedict ($18.00), Skillet Breakfast ($19.00), Buttermilk Pancakes ($18.00) | Elegant yet relaxed space with gray-blue tones and a sought-after patio | Indoor reservations available | Blood Orange Cosmo ($16.00), Stephi’s Espresso Martini |
| Sonsie | Newbury Street | Not specified | Croque Monseur, Tempura French Toast, Chilaquilles | Bright space with French doors and European charm | Reservation suggested | Bucket of Bubbles, Espresso Martini, Cold Brew Irish Coffee |
| Flour Bakery + Cafe | Back Bay location | $3.50-13.00 | Sticky Bun ($5.25), Breakfast Egg Sandwich ($10.50), Avocado Toast ($13.00) | Modern cafe with counter service | Swift service with mobile order option | Lattes ($3.50), Housemade Raspberry Seltzer |
| Rochambeau | 900 Boylston St | $12-20 | Eggs Benedict ($20), Duck Confit Hash, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes | Sophisticated dual-level space with Parisian influence | Weekend reservations recommended | Bucket of Bubbles ($50), Mimosas ($12), Bloody Marys ($15) |
Explore Boston’s Best Brunch Spots With Metropolitan Shuttle
Exploring Boston’s brunch scene with a group becomes both delightful and convenient when utilizing Metropolitan Shuttle‘s services. Their charter buses, accommodating up to 56 passengers, offer a comfortable and efficient way to navigate the city’s diverse neighborhoods. With Metropolitan Shuttle handling the transportation logistics, your group can relax and indulge in Boston’s best brunch offerings without the hassle of parking or coordinating multiple vehicles.
Conclusion
Back Bay’s brunch scene has something special for everyone’s taste and budget. The Friendly Toast pulls in crowds with creative comfort food and retro vibes. Stephanie’s on Newbury serves sophisticated classics in an elegant setting. French doors welcome you into Sonsie’s European atmosphere, while Flour Bakery meets quick-service needs with award-winning pastries. Rochambeau completes these amazing options with Parisian-inspired dishes and its festive “Bucket of Bubbles.”
These restaurants shine brightly and with good reason too. The Friendly Toast creates amazing flavor combinations with generous portions. Stephanie’s prime people-watching patio and refined comfort food make it a local favorite. Sonsie fascinates guests with its exceptional wine program and continental atmosphere. Flour’s heavenly sticky buns and quick service win hearts. Rochambeau’s two-level space and French technique leave lasting impressions.
Your brunch experience becomes better with some planning ahead. Popular spots like The Friendly Toast have shorter waits for early birds. Both Stephanie’s and Sonsie take reservations for indoor seating. Flour’s mobile ordering system helps bypass the lines. Weekend tables at Rochambeau need advance bookings.
These five spots show why Back Bay stays a favorite Boston brunch destination. Diners find excellent choices for any occasion through varied menus, prices, and atmospheres – perfect for quick breakfast meetings or relaxed weekend celebrations.
FAQs
Q1. What are some popular brunch spots in Back Bay, Boston?
Some popular brunch spots in Back Bay include The Friendly Toast, Stephanie’s on Newbury, Sonsie, Flour Bakery + Cafe, and Rochambeau. Each offers a unique atmosphere and menu, ranging from casual to upscale dining experiences.
Q2. Do I need reservations for brunch in Back Bay restaurants?
It’s recommended to make reservations, especially for weekend brunches at popular spots like Stephanie’s on Newbury and Sonsie. Some places like The Friendly Toast don’t take reservations but offer digital waitlists. For quick-service options like Flour Bakery, reservations aren’t necessary.
Q3. What’s unique about The Friendly Toast’s brunch menu?
The Friendly Toast is known for its creative comfort food and all-day breakfast offerings. Popular items include the “Maaaaaaaa!!!! The Meatloaf Benny” and “King Cakes” – mini banana and chocolate chip pancakes topped with bacon and peanut butter drizzle.
Q4. Are there any French-inspired brunch options in Back Bay?
Yes, Rochambeau offers a Parisian-inspired brunch experience. They serve French classics like Croque Monsieur and offer a “Bucket of Bubbles” champagne service. Sonsie also provides a European-style brunch with French-inspired dishes.
Q5. What are some quick breakfast options in Back Bay?
Flour Bakery + Cafe is an excellent choice for quick and delicious breakfast options. They offer a variety of pastries, including their famous sticky buns, as well as savory breakfast sandwiches. Their efficient service model and mobile ordering system make it perfect for busy mornings.
