College Life Continues At Cafenation

After living in Brighton for almost a year (May 1st marks the anniversary) and after glowing recommendations from several friends, I finally tried one of the most well known places in Brighton Center: Cafenation.

Cafenation is right in the middle of Brighton Center just a few doors down from the intersection of Washington Street and Chestnut Hill Ave. It has a small metal (could be copper or tin) sign outside. On the inside there are cafe tables at the front and the back and a bar/counter that runs all along the front window looking out to the street, perfect for people watching.

The menu is written in brightly colored on chalk on black boards hanging behind the counter. They offer omlettes, breakfast sandwiches in about eight varieties, sweet and savory crepes, salads, and sandwiches.

When you place your order, they take your name. When you drink is ready they call your name and you head up to the counter to retrieve it. When your meal is ready, they bring it to your table with silverware.

I ordered the garden omlette which was a very generous size and came stuffed with tomato, onion, peppers, broccoli and cheese. My dining companion ordered an egg and cheese crepe which was also quite large. Both the omlette and the crepe came with a side of honey do melon. I myself prefer home fries. I mean, what is brunch with out home fries or tater tots?

For drinks, I had a hot cocoa that required extra stirring to blend in the cocoa powder (not impressed). My brunch date had a chai latte which looked very delicious.

When you are finished with your meal, you clear your dishes yourself and dump them into a plastic bin by the trash (Panera bread style).

When we arrived at 9:00am we had the place all to ourselves, but by the time we left at 10:15am, it was completely packed. You can tell from everyone wearing sweatpants and North Face fleece zip ups, that its a very popular college spot, which is not surprising as Boston College is just up the street.

The food was good, quick and reasonably priced. Although I still prefer Athan's Bakery across the street for brunch, Cafenation is a solid breakfast spot. If you miss the good 'ole college days, this is definitely your weekend morning hang out.

 

Molly Galler

Welcome to Pop.Bop.Shop. My name is Molly. I’m a foodie, fashionista, pop culture addict and serious travel junkie. I’m a lifelong Bostonian obsessed with frozen confections, outdoor patios, Mindy Kaling, reality television, awards shows, tropical vacations, snail mail and my birthday.

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