Boston's best: Brunch spots

Craigie on Main

A foodie’s dream brunch, Craigie on Main’s “Sunday Best” was appointed one of the hottest brunch spots in the U.S. by Bon Appetit for good reason. Choosing between Whole Wheat Huckleberry Pancakes ($12), House-Brined Corned Beef and Hash ($16), and Chef Tony Maws’ masterpiece of a burger ($16) seems nearly impossible, but you can take comfort in the fact that whatever you decide on, you won’t be disappointed. But, no matter what you do, don’t be foolish enough to skip the House-Made Doughnut served with rich dulce de leche ($4). Trust us, it’s heavenly. In addition to their a la carte dishes, Craigie on Main also offers a prix fixe option of an appetizer, entrée, and dessert for only $29. Brunch served 11am-2pm on Sundays. Reservations accepted. 853 Main Street, Central Square, Cambridge (617-497-5511, craigieonmain.com)

Centre Street Café

Centre Street Café is a quirky little restaurant devoted to serving locally-grown and organic foods whenever possible. Their brunch line often trails far down the sidewalk in front of the café, but both the delicious food and the great service make it worth the wait. Try the Crispy Raised Waffles ($11.95) which are made the old-fashioned way with batter that rises overnight or, if you’re really hungry, order the Truckstop Breakfast ($9.96) which features three eggs cooked to order, a giant pancake, homefries and bacon or sausage. The line at Centre Street often begins to form before the café even opens, so plan on arriving at least 15 minutes before the doors open if you want to beat the rush. Brunch served 9am-3pm on Saturdays and Sundays. 669 Centre Street #A, Jamaica Plain (617-524-9217, centrestcafe.com)

Metropolis Café

There are many options in the South End when it comes to brunch, but Metropolis gets our vote thanks to its reasonable prices and its chic yet cozy atmosphere. It’s also a haven for egg-lovers. Choose between the Traditional, Spinach or Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict ($9.95/$9.95/$12.95), Huevos Rancheros ($9.95), or BBH and Eggs ($8.95), two eggs any style with chorizo and spicy black bean hash. The Monte Cristo Sandwich ($9.95), made with ham and gruyere and served with homefries and warm maple syrup, is also a crowd-pleaser. For those who like a little bubbly with their brunch, Metropolis offers a number of creative takes on mimosas. Try the refreshing Grapefruit Mimosa ($7.95) or the cranberry Mimosa Madras ($7.95). Brunch served 9am-3pm on Saturday and Sunday. 584 Tremont Street, South End, Boston (617-247-2931, metropolisboston.com)

Henrietta’s Table

When you’re in the mood to splurge on brunch, Henrietta’s Table is the place to do it. Elegant and focused on using fresh, local ingredients, Henrietta’s offers two different brunch options. On Saturdays, pick three items off a selected collection of dishes from the breakfast and lunch menus for $28 a person.  On Sundays, indulge in the decedent all-you-can-eat buffet for $45 per person. The buffet includes a raw bar, omelet station, fresh waffles, grilled vegetables and salad station, a number of hot entrees, several desserts and more. Orange juice, coffee and tea are unlimited. Brunch served noon-3pm on Saturday and Sunday. Reservations for Sunday brunch are recommended but not required. The Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett Street, Harvard Square, Cambridge (617-661-5005; henriettastable.com)