Looking for the perfect brunch spot can be difficult, especially in West Philadelphia. There are base specifications that local brunch locales regularly fail to meet, but Northern Liberty’s Honey’s Sit ‘n Eat fulfills them all. Unlike the sparse menus of local joints, Honey’s not only has one oversized menu with dishes ranging from the traditional ‘eggs your way’ ($4.75) to the more inventive ‘Breakfast Bomb’ ($10) — a giant buttermilk pancake stuffed with scrambled eggs and breakfast meat — but they also offer an additional menu with more omelet, French toast and pancake specials. While Philly Diner and Marathon Grill try — and fail — to capture that true diner ambience, Honey’s barstool-flanked counter and paper placemats give it a delightful greasy spoon feel. But beyond its culinary offerings and cutesy decor, Honey’s serves delicious hearty portions, making it well worth the trip North for your Sunday morning post hangover brunch.
With dishes like latkes, fried steak, grits and a whitefish salad platter, owner Jeb Woody describes the cuisine as “Jewish Country”. Amalgamating his Texan roots with his fiancee’s Jewish background, they really just wanted to create an American dining experience. I wanted brunch food, but given the emphasis on Jewish eats, I couldn’t resist the brisket, jalapeno, onion and cheddar cheese omelet special ($10). So not Kosher! However, instead of opting for a latke or grits, I chose more traditional accompaniments: home fries ($2.50) and toast. Though not exactly Bubbe’s brisket, the beefy bits meshed well with the salty onions, eggs and cheese. Yet, even more impressive than the inventive omelet ingredients were the traditional yet tasty home fries. More than just a pile of potatoes, the sauteed red peppers and onions added texture, moisture and flavor to the dish.
Though I ordered a specialty menu item, my guest chose a Honey’s staple: the biscuit sandwich with sausage ($5.50) and a side of bacon ($2.50). The gravy soaked the biscuits without compromising their texture. Tempted by Honey’s southern specialties, my guest also opted for the grits. Nothing too fancy, the milky grits lent themselves nicely to the main meals. Though we chose savory breakfast meals, Honey’s also has plenty for those who prefer sweet carb-filled breakfasts. A Honey’s favorite, owner Woody would recommend the Presley Pancakes ($9): bacon, banana and peanut butter chip pancakes. No-Libs may seem far for brunch, but why compromise for convenience when a satisfying brunch experience is a short subway ride away.
Honey’s Sit ‘n Eat
800 N 4th St
(215) 925-1150
Dont Miss: The daily specials
Skip: Coming in full-stomached.
