1. Hearty & Homemade
Whether you hanker something salty or sweet, you can’t go wrong with Wilma & Frieda’s — try the Blueberry Custard French Toast or Mark’s Short Rib Eggs Benedict. If you’re nursing a hangover or just need to fuel up for the day, try the Sky’s the Limit, made up of bacon and sausage, three eggs, hash browns, English muffin or biscuit, and pancakes or specialty French toast. “We make everything from scratch, including our pastries, English muffins, sauces, dressings, and jams,” says owner Kelly McFall. Other menu delights include such gourmet takes on childhood favorites as the pumpkin cream cheese tart. 73575 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-773-2807; www.wilmafrieda.com
2. European Panache
At La Quinta Bakery, be sure to try the German Breakfast, a power brunch served with slices of ham, turkey breast, Brie and Swiss cheeses, sliced apples, a hard-boiled egg, and a homemade French roll. This quaint bistro also features the ultimate hangover remedy: the Croque Madame, prepared with ham, Swiss cheese, and béchamel sauce on toasted French bread, topped with an egg. 78395 Hwy. 111, La Quinta. 760-777-1699; www.laquintabaking.com
3. Southern Bonanza
The Tropicale offers a variety of dishes that will awaken your taste buds. One of the more popular plates is the Crispy Southern Fried Chicken on a bacon jalapeño waffle, served with country gravy, collard greens, and maple syrup. If you had one too many martinis the night before, fill up on some comfort food like the Charred Beef Brisket Burger with Brie, truffle mayo, and red onion marmalade. Or try the cheddar cheese waffle with crispy bacon and rosemary-scented caramel apples. 330 E. Amado Rd., Palm Springs. 760-866-1952; www.thetropicale.com
4. On the Fly
If you’re seeking a high-energy atmosphere for brunch, look no further than Trio. Owner Tony Marchese’s favorite dish is the Fried Egg Sandwich, served with sweet potato fries and roasted red pepper aioli. Popular dishes include the Corn Cake and Eggs and the Mushroom Enchiladas. 707 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-864-8746; www.triopalmsprings.com
5. Mediterranean-Inspired
Clementine Gourmet Marketplace and Café’s Eggs Benedict are made with roasted tomatoes and locally sourced Portobello mushrooms, set on wheat sourdough and topped with a citrus hollandaise made from local lemons, limes, and oranges. Add smoked salmon for a hearty version to begin your day. 72990 El Paseo, Ste. 3, Palm Desert. 760-834-8814; www.clementineshop.com
6. Bottomless Feast
Jump-start your busy day with Vue Grille & Bar’s bottomless Champagne brunch buffet. The buffet is extensive and includes a sushi bar, omelet and carving stations, and a dessert bar. Remedy a hangover with the restaurant’s build-your-own bloody mary offering. 44500 Indian Wells Ln., Indian Wells. 760-834-3800; www.vuegrilleandbar.com
7. Sophisticated Palate
For an upscale experience, brunch at Spencer’s, where house specialties include Banana Stuffed French Toast and Maine Lobster Omelet served with hollandaise sauce, herb tomato, and roasted fingerling potatoes. For a hearty power breakfast, choose from among seven different eggs Benedict options, with combinations including Scottish salmon, Maine lobster, and grilled beef tenderloin to suit your fancy. 701 W. Baristo Rd., Palm Springs. 760-327-3446; www.spencersrestaurant.com
8. Rise and Shine!
Take advantage of the early-bird specials at The Broken Yolk Café. Get over that pesky hangover with huevos rancheros for protein and tomato juice to hydrate and flush out the alcohol. Restaurant manager Robert Pescador recommends the Greek Yogurt Parfait layered with granola, sliced almonds, fresh bananas, and honey for a healthy way to start a busy day ahead. 78430 Hwy. 111, La Quinta. 760-777-9655; www.thebrokenyolkcafe.com
