Not last Sunday but the one before that, a most lovely brunch was enjoyed at Echo Park’s Winsome. With spring weather in full effect and the jacarandas in bloom, the setting could not have been any more perfect. Dining al fresco was a must.

Opened in February of this year, Winsome serves a new American menu by former Rustin Canyon chef Jeremy Strubel, and pastries and desserts from former Republique chef Leslie Mialma. This team is stacked.

The interior, which made me swoon with its swivel stools, open kitchen, and idyllic patio, comes from Wendy Haworth Design. Whether you’re dining inside or out, Winsome’s space feels great to be in.

The Astronomer and I sipped on house-made agua frescas ($5 each) while we perused the menu. I selected the horchata made from quinoa, wild rice, and toasted almonds, while he went for the cucumber and kaffir lime.

We began brunch with a duo of pastries, because it was the right thing to do. The Astronomer had his eye on the cherry and rye scone ($3.25), which was properly flaky and rich.

Our brunching companion Diana ordered the monkey bread with orange zest ($3.50), a decadent little number that was perfectly sticky and surprisingly not too sweet.

The Astronomer, June and I shared two mains and one side. First up was the Buckwheat and Semolina Pancake ($11). The yeast-risen pancake, which arrived smothered in butter, strawberry jam, and chestnut honey, was unexpectedly over-the-top and very solid.

The Grilled Corned Beef Sandwich ($14) provided a much needed savory foil to the table’s sweet spread. In between slices of rustic bread was Niman Ranch brisket, black garlic, cabbage slaw, and aged provolone. June loved the pickled cabbage most.

We had initially ordered the Baby Carrots and Root Vegetables ($10) for June, but the “al pastor spice” proved too intense for our little lady, even with the cilantro yogurt, so The Astronomer and I polished these off.

Diana ordered the Potato Rosti ($13) with sunny side-up egg, Bloomsdale spinach, asparagus, avocado, and basil tahini. She was pleased as pie with her selection.

Brunch at Winsome was just what the weekend ordered: great food, beautiful ambiance, and quality time spent with quality people.

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Winsome
1115 Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: 213-415-1818

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Two years ago: St. John’s Rhubarb Crumble Cake
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Four years ago: Superba Snack Bar – Los Angeles (Venice)
Five years ago: Deep Fried Love
Six years ago: Bar Pinotxo – Barcelona
Seven years ago: Chinese Sausage and Cucumber Salad
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Nine years ago: Snackbar – Philadelphia