Universal Grill

Think of Cheers, but for brunch.

Located at the corner of Dupont and Shaw St. (1071 Shaw St. ), locals and not-so locals flock to this establishment for their simple, yet elegant take on breakfast and brunch.

Rotating specials, and old favourites are featured on the Sunday menu.

Patrons looking for something light can try the yogurt with fruit and granola. A mixture of berries and a light yogurt are paired with delicious granola and raspberry preserves. A decadent choice for the light bruncher. I have enjoyed (plenty of times) the Huevos Rancheros. Topped on a tortilla are beans in sauce, fried eggs, cheese and crispy tortilla strips. It is just the perfect amount of spice, and for the more adventurous, you can ask for their spicy sauce that packs a punch, and tastes fantastic. On the side of the dish are guacamole and sour cream, and this dish goes perfectly matched with a side of their spicy chorizo.

If you are looking for more of a homestyle breakfast, the Universal Grill offers cheesy scrambled eggs. Smooth and silky scrambled eggs are topped with cheddar cheese, and are served with a side of 'spuds' and toast.

Free refills are given on coffee, and for those who don't drink coffee, there are always different juices every week to indulge in. My personal favourite is the apple cranberry. For those looking for a sweet treat to drink, it might not be for you, but the apple cranberry offers a bittersweet combination that is thirst quenching and a perfect start to any day.

The waitresses are attentive, and the service is quick and friendly. Go there enough, and they remember your order :)

Price: $15-25 (including coffee or small juice)

Boom!

On a sunny sunday morning, you can expect any brunch location with a patio to be packed to the sidewalks. While an abundance of patrons does not indicate that the food is great, Boom! is in a category all to its own. Boom, at 808 College St. is home to fresh ingredients, quick service (but not too quick), and an ever-increasing menu that pleases even the most picky of eaters.

On my first visit, I had an omelette with bacon, tomato and swiss cheese. The bacon was not too crispy, the egg was fluffy, and while the tomato itself had an off-taste to it, I thought that overall it was one of the better omelettes that I've tried. Since my first visit, I have had the pleasure of trying Boom's egg benedict, which is traditional benny with ham, poached eggs, and a very creamy and well-seasoned hollandaise sauce. Most dishes will come with a side of Boom frites, which is just a pretentious way of saying that it comes with home fries. Pretentious or not, the hint of garlic and seasoning that they are rubbed in is quite good, but not unlike something you could find in your local grocer's freezer.

First time Boom-goers should prepare for a line if you arrive at any time past 10 am. College St. has a series of brunch regulars that flock to Boom! early, so expect a wait if you wake up late from a night of heavy drinking. However, stick around and wait, because you'll be glad you did.

Price: $15-25per person (includes coffee or juice)