Brunch *etc.* Date: Society Fair

Brunch date. Dinner date. Wine date. Patio date. Coffee date. Cake date.

All of these can be accomplished by paying a visit to one of our favorite Old Town haunts, Society Fair. Located on Washington Street just a block down from King, this gem is another brainchild from the Eat Good Food Group (responsible for some of our go-to date night spots in town!) and definitely has a vibe all its own.

Scott and I first wandered into “the Fair” almost two years ago when we passed by and caught a glimpse of the sweets through the windows. Scott is like a moth to a flame when it comes to sugar, so we promptly set ourselves up on the patio for a glass of wine and a piece of their ‘Big Ass Chocolate Cake’. It’s safe to say that we were smitten kittens and have returned regularly since that first evening.

When my sister was in town a few weekends ago, we found ourselves on a third-wheel brunch date (Scott was more the third wheel in this sister combination) and just had to introduce her to Society Fair. We meandered around their European style food market while waiting for a table, and lusted after the collection of confectionery treats. It’s impossible not to walk out with dessert for later, and we have sampled most of the cakes on display.

And one of these days, I’m buying this book:

Brunch at the Fair is classy and while filling, will not make you regret the rest of your day. So often we have a heavy brunch that incapacitates us, but the Fair brunch is refreshing and savory and everything you hope for a Sunday morning meal.

Our suggestion? ORDER LARRY’S BEIGNETS. I had never had a beignet before having them at Society Fair last year, and they are easily one of my favorite brunch items.  Light, powdery, fried perfection. If it’s fried, it’s usually on my plate. Must be something I’ve acquired now that I live south of the Mason Dixon line…

But beignets will always play second fiddle to my brunch favorite – Eggs Benedict. If you want a happy girl, feed me hollandaise and bacon in the morning, and guacamole in the evening. It’s a simple formula. The Eggs Benedict at Society Fair are fantastic, and I love that you can choose your protein. I am not a fan of Canadian bacon, and always have to request the real deal. Not here. Choose between ham, bacon and turkey and you’re good to go.

Scott ordered the Scrambled Eggs (a departure from his usually heavy meals…) and was pleased. I think next time he’ll up his game and get the Steak Scramble to mix things up. My sister was also pleased with her breakfast sandwich, and said the buttermilk biscuit made the meal.

What is brunch without a libation? Scott’s Pickled Bloody Mary definitely makes your mouth pucker, so if you’re not keen on pickles better try the Sparkling Mojito or the Grand Mimosa, which Adrienne and I both found delightful.

Whether you are in search of a great patio or need to kick your morning off with a cup o’ joe and an order of beignets, Society Fair is the place to go.  Oh, and make sure to take home a piece of cake – you’ll thank us for the tip later.

Cheers!

Al