The Southeast United States is known for its rich history, charming towns, and beautiful landscapes. But beyond the sights, there’s another reason to explore the region: Southern brunch. This beloved tradition is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that perfectly captures the comfort and hospitality of Southern culture.
As you travel through the Southeast, whether you’re visiting cities like Charleston, Nashville, or Savannah, you’ll find countless opportunities to indulge in a true Southern brunch. Each destination offers its own spin on classic dishes, making the region a hotspot for food lovers. In this blog, we’ll highlight popular brunch dishes, explore the best spots for Sunday brunch, and show you how to turn your next trip into a delicious Southern food journey.
Related: A BBQ Bucket List in Alabama: Exploring the Best BBQ in Alabama
Southern Brunch: The Perfect Travel Experience
When traveling through the Southeast, Sunday brunch can be the perfect way to dive into local culture. From the low-country shrimp and grits of South Carolina to the chicken and waffles of Georgia, the flavors of Southern brunch reflect the diverse ingredients and traditions of the region.
A leisurely brunch is also a great way to recharge during your travels. Whether you’re enjoying a meal after exploring the historic streets of Charleston or before heading out for a day of hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Southern brunch provides the perfect combination of hearty comfort food and a relaxed atmosphere.
The Rise of Southern Brunch Culture in Travel
Over the last decade, Southern brunch has grown in popularity, not only among locals but also with travelers seeking an authentic culinary experience. Cities like Atlanta, New Orleans, and Charlotte have become brunch meccas, offering visitors everything from casual cafés to upscale brunch spots that celebrate Southern cuisine.
Travelers now plan entire trips around the brunch scene, as restaurants across the Southeast continue to put creative spins on traditional favorites. From bottomless mimosas in Nashville to biscuit sandwiches in Birmingham, Southern brunch is a food lover’s dream.
Best Southern Cities for Sunday Brunch
When traveling through the Southeast, you’ll want to plan your stops around the best brunch destinations. Here’s a guide to some of the top cities where Southern brunch is a must-try experience.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is known for its historic charm and coastal beauty, but it’s also a brunch paradise. Many restaurants in Charleston highlight the region’s rich seafood offerings, with shrimp and grits topping the list of popular brunch dishes. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, head to spots like Poogan’s Porch or Magnolia’s, where you can indulge in Southern classics like biscuits with sausage gravy and fried chicken.
Beyond the food, brunch in Charleston is an experience. Many restaurants are housed in charming, historic buildings, offering the perfect setting for a relaxing meal. After brunch, take a stroll through the nearby historic district or along the waterfront to round out your visit.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is known for its live music scene, but it’s also a top destination for Southern brunch. If you’re visiting the Music City, be sure to add a Sunday brunch to your itinerary. Popular brunch spots like Biscuit Love or The Southern offer dishes like hot chicken and waffles and fluffy buttermilk biscuits.
Brunch in Nashville is all about blending Southern comfort food with creativity. Many spots also serve locally sourced ingredients, ensuring you get a taste of Tennessee’s best. After brunch, you can hit up the famous Broadway Street for some live music or visit the iconic Grand Ole Opry.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is famous for its unique Creole and Cajun cuisine, and brunch here is a must for travelers. Dishes like eggs Sardou—poached eggs with artichoke and creamed spinach—are local favorites, as are decadent beignets and café au lait. New Orleans’ French Quarter is home to many iconic brunch spots like Brennan’s and Commander’s Palace, where brunch is an unforgettable event.
Pairing brunch with the vibrant culture of New Orleans makes this city a top brunch destination. Whether you’re strolling through the historic streets or taking in a jazz performance, a Sunday brunch in New Orleans is the perfect way to fuel your adventure.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s Southern charm extends to its brunch scene, making it a top destination for food-loving travelers. In Savannah, you’ll find a mix of coastal and classic Southern dishes, with brunch offerings ranging from crab cake benedict to fried green tomatoes. Popular spots like The Collins Quarter and The Grey are great places to experience these Southern brunch staples.
The laid-back vibe of Savannah is ideal for a leisurely brunch, especially if you’re visiting on a Sunday. After brunch, enjoy the city’s famous squares or take a scenic walk along the riverfront.
Asheville, North Carolina
If you’re traveling through the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is the perfect brunch stop. Known for its eclectic arts scene and craft breweries, Asheville offers a brunch experience that’s both innovative and deeply rooted in Southern tradition. Popular dishes include sweet potato pancakes, pimento cheese omelets, and fried green tomatoes. For a fantastic Sunday brunch, head to spots like Early Girl Eatery or Tupelo Honey Café.
Asheville’s bohemian atmosphere makes it a unique brunch destination. Whether you’re exploring the nearby hiking trails or visiting the famous Biltmore Estate, brunch in Asheville is the perfect way to refuel and relax.
Popular Southern Brunch Dishes to Try on Your Trip
One of the best parts of traveling through the Southeast is getting to try the wide range of popular brunch dishes. Each region puts its own spin on these classics, making every bite a new experience.
Shrimp and Grits
A dish that hails from the coastal regions of the Southeast, shrimp and grits is a must-try on your Southern brunch journey. This dish features creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp cooked in butter, garlic, and bacon. You’ll find delicious variations in Charleston, Savannah, and New Orleans.
Chicken and Waffles
A favorite brunch dish in cities like Nashville and Atlanta, chicken and waffles combines crispy fried chicken with a soft, sweet waffle. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish perfect for a hearty Sunday brunch.
Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage Gravy
Buttermilk biscuits are a staple of Southern brunch, especially when paired with rich sausage gravy. This comforting dish can be found in just about any brunch spot across the Southeast, but Nashville and Birmingham have some of the best biscuit restaurants around.
French Toast Casserole
Southern brunch often goes big, and French toast casserole is a perfect example of that. Made by soaking bread in a rich custard overnight, this dish is baked to golden perfection the next morning. It’s a popular choice for brunch in places like Charleston and Savannah.
Deviled Eggs
No Southern brunch is complete without deviled eggs. These savory bites are made from hard-boiled eggs stuffed with a creamy, tangy filling of egg yolks, mayo, and mustard. You’ll find deviled eggs on many brunch menus across the Southeast, especially in Georgia and Alabama.
Brunch on the Road: Tips for Planning a Southern Brunch Tour
If you’re planning a road trip through the Southeast, make sure to include brunch stops in your itinerary. Here are some tips for making the most of your Southern brunch experience as you travel:
Research Local Favorites
Each city in the Southeast has its own popular brunch spots, so do some research before your trip. Many restaurants serve brunch only on the weekends, so plan your visit around a Sunday brunch if possible. Checking local food blogs or restaurant reviews can help you find the best brunch spots in each city.
Make Reservations
Brunch is a big deal in the Southeast, and popular restaurants often fill up quickly, especially on Sundays. To avoid long waits, make reservations in advance if the restaurant allows. This will give you more time to relax and enjoy your meal without worrying about crowds.
Explore the Local Flavors
Part of the fun of a Southern brunch tour is discovering the local variations on classic dishes. Try shrimp and grits in Charleston, biscuits in Nashville, and beignets in New Orleans. Each city offers a unique take on Southern brunch, so don’t be afraid to explore new flavors.
Pace Yourself
Southern brunches are often hearty, with large portions and rich flavors. If you’re planning multiple brunch stops during your trip, pace yourself so you can fully enjoy each meal. Share dishes with your travel companions or order lighter options if you plan to brunch multiple times in one weekend.
Southern Brunch—A Tasty Journey Through the Southeast
Southern brunch is the perfect complement to any trip through the Southeast. From the historic streets of Charleston to the vibrant culture of New Orleans, each city offers its own spin on popular brunch dishes, making every meal a memorable part of your journey.
So, the next time you plan a trip through the Southeast, don’t forget to carve out some time for brunch. Whether you’re indulging in shrimp and grits or savoring chicken and waffles, Southern brunch is a travel experience you won’t want to miss.
