Sunday morning is usually about what's convenient. But if you're trying to convince the girl from last night that you weren't joking, sometimes the decor of Bui's food truck just doesn't cut it. Caribou Cafe, located on Walnut between 11th and 12th, provides a satisfactory alternative. Although prices run a bit steeper than your average brunch spot, nothing on the menu at the deceptively large bistro will cut too deep into the checkbook. And with a diverse array of fresh and savory options, moving above and beyond Marathon Grill will be sure to strike a new chord with your impromptu date.
Sun splashed and pleasantly decorated, Caribou's two-story dining area is deceptively large, keeping noise levels low and facilitating open conversation. A space for small ensemble music occupies a corner of the front window, with a two-piece jazz band playing when we went. A long and fully stocked bar occupies most of the first floor, with booths opposite. Upstairs, smaller tables take up the balconies that wrap around either side of the restaurant. In all, the mood is refined while staying fresh and somewhat casual.
For starters, we had the Soupe ‹¨« l'oignon ($6) and Salad Maison ($7), in addition to orange juice and La Colombe coffee. The mostly basic house salad came tossed in a mustard and shallot dressing, and the inclusion of haricots verts (green beans) provided a shot of flavor and juice. The soup, although standard Parisian fare, was excellent.
The entrees were even better. While I took on the Crepe Fruits de Mar ($12), my friend had Eggs Benedict with Filet Mignon ($12.50). The crepe, which comes with a side salad, is filled with delectable seafood and topped with lobster sauce. Meanwhile, the filet mignon turns the normally straightforward benedict on its head, and while the plate isn't exactly loaded down with meat, the side potatoes and sauteed spinach more than compensate. The dish is also available with crab and salmon, and a thin yet full-flavored hollandaise sauce doesn't disappoint. For the less adventurous, there's the Caribou Hamburger with caramelized onions and tomato remoulade ($8.5) and the Croque Poulet (grilled chicken sandwich with spinach, goat cheese, Dijon mustard and Swiss -- $9.5).
The dessert menu is a bit rich, both for your taste buds and your wallet, but if you're going the extra mile, try the fromage plate ($9.5). With three types of cheese, fresh bread, grapes and figs, it tops off the meal nicely. If cheese isn't your thing, the bread pudding and chocolate mousse come recommended.
While Caribou may be a bit too distant and upscale to become a weekend fixture, it's a perfect option for a classy Easter brunch. The dinner menu and bar are also appealing, especially if your Sunday morning companion wants a few hours to think things over.
