Embargo ’62: Brunch with Cuban Flavor

When I discovered Embargo ’62 was launching their new brunch menu this past weekend (February 5), I immediately cancelled my plans elsewhere and stopped by this colorful hole-in-the-wall on the NorthShore. As a brunch connoisseur, I am excited anytime I find a brunch menu that does something a little different (even I get bored of plain eggs and bacon once in a while). And this Cuban brunch spot definitely did the trick.

First and foremost, the restaurant immediately put me at ease, like going to Grandma’s after Sunday church (if my Grandma was Cuban and a heavy pourer). The décor was both warm and eclectic, complete with a swordfish hanging on the wall aside scattered picture frames. And in front of that giant fish sat a one-man-band/singer/keyboard player named Rafi, who immediately got up to greet each of us before livening up the room with some Salsa.

I ordered a Cuban coffee, Sangria, and the Brittany Benedict (see menu), while the others at the table ordered the Embargo ’62 Brunch Burrito and Mimosas. Now the food was good—a quality eggs Benedict with the added complexity of Cuban-styled ground beef and a surprisingly crunchy bread base—but the drinks were the star of the show.

Honestly, I’d return just for the coffee alone. I’m not a sweet tooth, but this decadent cup of warmth had just the right amount of pizzaz that you want but don’t expect from your standard brunch restaurant. And the sangria—*audible gasp*—wow. Bottomless sangria (or Mimosas) will cost you only $7 here. And it was delicious. Strong but flavorful.

I will be back.

Highlights: Coffee, bottomless sangria, and atmosphere.

 Some pics from Embargo ’62: