Brunch

Your guide to eating out from a vegetarian who doesn’t want to cook

What meal goes better with coffee than brunch? And what vegetarian doesn’t love brunch? It’s a meal that almost always includes options we can enjoy. Whether you crave something traditional, like eggs and pancakes, or something a little out of the ordinary, like a waffle taco, OKC has fantastic local establishments that keep Saturday and Sunday brunch veggie friendly.

Waffle Champion

If you don’t like lines, get there early, because Waffle Champion routinely has a line out the door. There is of course, a good reason for this. Delicious waffles turned into sandwiches, and hearty entrees come to mind. Vegetarian options include: a cheddar, Havarti, and Brie grilled cheese waffle sandwich; the Florentine, with tomato, spinach, mushroom, egg and goat cheese béchamel; a Brussels sprout hash waffle; and a garlic cauliflower mash waffle. For those with a sweet tooth, you can add delicious toppings to a plain waffle, such as: brown sugar rum bananas; cinnamon cream cheese syrup; liquid cheesecake; and the good ol’ standby, Nutella. Whatever you choose, be forewarned, you may still be full by dinner.
1212 N Walker Ave, OKC

Kitchen 324

People travel downtown from all over the city to enjoy brunch at 324. They offer a nice variety of pastries if you want something sweet, or you can adjust most of their dishes to make them veggie-friendly. The Fried Green Tomato Benedict is beautifully presented and quite tasty, with the addition of sriracha sauce and avocado. Another great option is the Farmer’s Market dish. You get your choice of three sides, including selections such as: Israeli couscous with wild mushrooms, almonds, and feta; scarlet quinoa with apples and squash; and Idaho and sweet potato chips with sea salt. With so many choices, everyone can find something to savor.
324 N Robinson Ave, OKC

West Restaurant

Excited doesn’t begin to describe my feeling about the new West in Bricktown. While I miss the Scaramuccis’ delicious Nonna’s, I’m thrilled to have a wonderful local restaurant in that fantastic location. Every meal at West should start with their fried Zuccha Chips, and thankfully, they are available on the brunch menu. Whether you follow them up with the vegetarian West Benedict, with spinach and tomato in place of ham; the breakfast quesadilla, with black beans, eggs and cheese; or the fruit and cheese platter, you will leave satisfied. Add a mimosa (or two) for a wonderfully relaxing meal.
6714 N Western Ave, OKC

The Mule

Known for their fabulous grilled cheeses, The Mule has been a popular spot in the Plaza District since they opened their doors. But not everyone is aware of their Sunday Brunch, which includes several vegetarian options. Choose from: green chile hash with home fries, avocado, green chile and two eggs; the Big Ass Burrito, with black beans, mushrooms, tons of veggies, all covered in queso; or the Sunrise Sandwich, with gouda biscuits, sundried tomato pesto, cheesy eggs, and arugula. They are all fantastic. The Mule always remembers vegans, and brunch is no exception. Their Vegan Tostada Stack, with black beans, green chile, and plenty of veggies is deliciously filling. And it wouldn’t be The Mule without the Big Ass Grilled Cheese. Add an egg for extra protein and enjoy!
1630 Blackwelder Ave, OKC

Picasso Café

At the always vegetarian-friendly Picasso Café, brunch is a popular occasion. People gather outside just before 10 am, waiting for the doors to open. Thankfully, they accept reservations. Picasso’s has several delicious vegetarian options including: strawberry banana blintzes; an artisan cheese plate; and a house made veggie burger. For those wanting something unique, their vegan “Chicken Fried” Portobello, with soy cream gravy, is a fine choice. The Juevos Rancheros offer plenty of protein, with eggs, black beans, and avocados, and the Breakfast Burrito, with vegan chili and crème fraiche can be made vegetarian by substituting spinach for the meat. Picasso Café seems to pride themselves on embracing vegetarians, making this Paseo Arts District gem one of my favorite stops.
3009 Paseo, OKC