How Brunch Became a Coffee Lover’s Sunday Ritual

You’ve heard the word ‘brunch’ tossed around—but what is it really, beyond a trendy Instagram caption? For many, it’s the only excuse to sleep in, dress down, and still call it a productive morning. But brunch isn’t just an excuse for late rising. It began as a post-party solution in 19th-century New York, evolved into a luxurious weekend meal abroad, and today offers the perfect excuse to enjoy good coffee without the rush.

Brunch is typically a Sunday meal combining breakfast and lunch elements, most popular in Western countries and now widely embraced in China—often fueled by coffee and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s not an everyday event, but rather a deliberate slowdown, usually enjoyed between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Where Brunch Began: A New York Nightlife Solution

Brunch started in the bars of New York City as a post-weekend hangover cure. Originally called a ‘champagne party,’ it combined food with leisure and late drinking. Over time, it morphed into a more wholesome weekend tradition—a way to ease into the day after a busy Saturday night or a long sleep-in on Sunday.

How Different Countries Do Brunch

Americans usually begin brunch around 11 a.m., starting simply with eggs but expanding to a protein-heavy plate: eggs (cooked to preference), meat, and bread. British brunch favors muesli—an oat-based cereal served with milk for lasting fullness—paired with fruit for balance. Japanese brunch leans into multi-course meals with soup, rice, fish or meat, and dessert, resembling a full lunch. Meanwhile, the French elevate brunch into a refined feast with steak, seafood, and elegant accompaniments.

Brunch Culture in China: Thanks to Sex and the City

In China, brunch took off largely due to the influence of the TV show Sex and the City. The image of four friends gathering at 11 a.m. for food, gossip, and coffee helped cement brunch as a fashionable yet laid-back weekend activity. Whether driven by aspiration or genuine appreciation for a slower pace, brunch has become a staple for many urban dwellers seeking a moment of indulgent calm.

Where to Try Brunch in Beijing

If you’re looking to experience brunch culture firsthand, here are two notable spots in Beijing:

Feast
Located in the northeast of Beijing, Feast offers minimalist décor and light, fresh dishes. Their standout is the Italian-style spinach and cheese-filled pancake. Vegetarians can opt for one of their desserts, also highly recommended.
Price: 168 RMB per person (2 main dishes) + 15% service charge

Address: 2nd Floor, East Hotel, 22 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang District

The Rug
The Rug is known for its organic wholegrain bread made in-house, served with a range of toppings including ham, steak, avocado, and various sauces. Food is freshly prepared, ensuring quality but with a wait time of around 20–30 minutes.
Price: Approximately 150 RMB per person

Address: 1st Floor, Building 4, Lishui Jiayuan, Chaoyang Park South Road, Chaoyang District

The Coffee Angle: What to Drink With Your Brunch

While the article doesn’t focus solely on coffee, the pairing is essential. Whether you’re enjoying eggs benedict or muesli, a well-brewed cup enhances the experience. Many brunch spots serve coffee alongside meals, but knowing what works best—especially with milk—can elevate your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is brunch, and why is it associated with Sundays?

Brunch is a combined meal of breakfast and lunch, typically eaten on Sundays. It originated as a post-party gathering in 19th-century New York and evolved into a leisurely weekend meal, especially popular among those who sleep in and dine late morning.

How do different countries serve brunch?

In the U.S., brunch features eggs, meat, and bread around 11 a.m. The British prefer muesli and fruit. Japanese brunch resembles a full lunch with multiple courses. The French enjoy steak, seafood, and elegant sides. Each country adapts the concept to local tastes and meal traditions.

Why did brunch become popular in China?

Brunch gained popularity in China largely due to the influence of Sex and the City, where the characters were seen enjoying late-morning meals with friends. This portrayal helped make brunch a symbol of relaxed, fashionable living.

What are some recommended places for brunch in Beijing?

Two notable spots are Feast, known for its Italian-inspired spinach and cheese pancakes, and The Rug, which serves fresh organic bread with various toppings. Both offer a distinct take on the brunch experience with different wait times and price points.

What kind of coffee goes well with brunch dishes?

Coffee with milk—like lattes or cappuccinos—is a classic pairing for brunch. In particular, blends with Brazil beans like FrontStreet’s Specialty or Black Cocoa Blends offer smooth, nutty profiles that complement eggs, pastries, and light meals. For a richer brew, try options with a touch of Robusta for extra crema and caramel notes.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Milk-Based Brunch Coffee

For pairing with brunch, choose FrontStreet’s Specialty Blend or Black Cocoa Blend—both feature Brazilian beans as the base, delivering smooth, nutty flavors like almond and walnut that complement eggs, pancakes, and pastries. The Specialty Blend offers rich crema, while the Black Cocoa Blend adds chocolatey depth. Both work beautifully in milk drinks. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.