The Dallas brunch culture is so strong that many places require reservations just to get a seat (see here, here and here for some brunch ideas). On the bright side, as brunch continues to grow in popularity, restaurants constantly attempt to improve, vying to bring crowds to their brunch spot.
Cook Hall just joined the fun, adding in a happy hour and live music to their Sunday brunch. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cook Hall offers $5 mimosa carafes (at least 4 mimosas), Bloody Mary's and Draft Beer (because what better way to complete a brunch than with alcohol?) and the live music lasts from 12 to 2 p.m. Though the music is not quite as traditionally jazzy as the "Brass" name suggests, it's still welcome, quiet background music. Each weekend features a new headliner, so request a seat by the music in order to make the most of the experience.
Chef Vijay Sadhu just began at Cook Hall last year following a career at Samudraa in Plano and Pepper Smash in Plano.
"I'm trying to bring some Southern flair to the menu," he told The Dallas Morning News last year. "Some Texas flair."
His brunch menu includes items like Vanilla French Toast, Eggs Benedict, Gulf Shrimp and Grits, Huevos Rancheros, and American Breakfast. The servings are not giant, so you may have room to try one of the southern-themed desserts, such as the Pecan Pie, Texas Peach Cobbler, or Southern Chocolate Cake. Most entrees cost between $10 and $20.
One of the most unique parts of the restaurant is the decor. The wooden walls and rows of lights create a sophisticated ambiance without feeling too elegant for a normal Sunday brunch. And the artwork (such as the food map to the right) will keep you entertained for several minutes if you actually begin to study it.
Open 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and to 9 p.m. on Sunday. 2440 Victory Park Lane, Dallas.
