Latin Brunches

Palm Sunday

by Kelly White

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Published: May 6, 2008

The most ambient tropical brunch in the city is nowhere near paradise — but Old City's Cuba Libre sure comes close when it comes to the food. Unwind with the waffle de coco, a coconut-scented waffle soaked with piña colada drizzle and served with a medley of dried papaya and mango confetti. Wash it down with the café Cuba Libre, a Cuban coffee with steamed coconut milk.

Down in South Philly, the bright yellow walls of Café Con Chocolate make it an instant getaway, no matter what the weather. The zesty chilaquiles add to the vibe with fried tortillas slathered in mole sauce and melted cheese. Take the heat off with a guava smoothie.

It's easy to forget that grapefruit is more than just a fad diet food. Visit Basque tapas pride-and-joy Tinto to start your weekend brunch with brülée of grapefruit, an especialidade concocted with crème fraîche gelato and olive oil espuma. Es-what? That's Spanish for foam. Go work on your tan.

Skip the dozens of bruncheries that make huevos rancheros and opt for the real deal — Tierra Colombiana has the sunniest-sides up around. Get even more flavor with the classic Colombian breakfast plate, which pairs top-round steak with rice, red beans, a cornmeal patty and two eggs. Now all you need is strong java and an umbrella drink.

If you find yourself stranded on Isla Verde, take retreat in the ceviche, whipped up several ways at this South Beach-y haven. Try scallops, salmon or coconut-marinated halibut. Traditionalists stick with the Ecuadorian-style shrimp ceviche, which comes marooned in a citrus and jalapeño cocktail sauce.

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