The Origin and Evolution of Brunch
The Birth of the Term
The concept of combining breakfast and lunch is officially known as brunch. The term was reportedly popularized in an 1895 article by British writer Guy Beringer. He championed the idea of a lighter, later Sunday meal to replace the traditional heavy, post-church Sunday supper, especially for "Saturday-night carousers." He suggested this meal was "cheerful, sociable and inciting". The idea was picked up by the periodical Punch in 1896, and the trend began to spread.
American Popularity and Expansion
While brunch started in England, it truly gained widespread popularity in the United States during the 1930s. It initially appealed to the wealthy and Hollywood elite who traveled by train and sought a sophisticated late-morning meal at hotels in cities like Chicago and New York. As the concept spread, it became a beloved weekend custom, especially among families and friends seeking a leisurely social occasion. After World War II, as day-drinking became more socially acceptable, brunch cocktails like mimosas and Bloody Marys became staples of the experience.
Brunch's Modern Meaning
Today, brunch has transcended its original purpose to become a flexible and versatile meal. It is a social affair, an experience often enjoyed on weekends, and a chance to relax and catch up with company. Unlike the more rigid structure of breakfast and lunch, brunch is a time to indulge in a wide variety of sweet and savory dishes, often featuring both breakfast and lunch items on the same menu. Its timing is also flexible, typically falling between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., or even as late as 3 p.m..
Breakfast, Brunch, and Lunch Compared
| Feature | Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Timing | Early morning (7 a.m. to 9 a.m.) | Late morning to early afternoon (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) | Midday (12 p.m. to 2 p.m.) | |
| Atmosphere | Often quick, functional, or "grab-and-go" | Relaxed, leisurely, social, and celebratory | Standard, often a work-day or quick break meal | |
| Menu Items | Classic breakfast foods (e.g., eggs, cereal, toast) | Combination of breakfast and lunch foods, often extensive and creative | Midday dishes (e.g., sandwiches, salads, soups) | |
| Beverages | Coffee, tea, juice | Mimosas, Bloody Marys, coffee, tea | Water, soda, juice | |
| Purpose | Fueling up for the start of the day | Socializing, relaxing, and enjoying a large, indulgent meal | Replenishing energy for the rest of the day |
Popular Brunch Dishes and Hosting Tips
What to Serve at Brunch
One of the best parts of brunch is the wide array of food options. A typical spread might include:
- Sweet dishes: Pancakes, waffles, French toast, cinnamon rolls, or fresh fruit salad.
- Savory dishes: Eggs Benedict, quiche, frittatas, bacon, sausage, smoked salmon, or hash browns.
- Baked goods: Bagels with cream cheese, muffins, or croissants.
- Drinks: Mimosas, Bloody Marys, coffee, tea, and juice.
How to Host a Stress-Free Brunch
- Plan a mix of dishes: Offer a variety of sweet, savory, hot, and cold dishes to cater to all tastes.
- Prep in advance: Many dishes, like quiches, frittatas, and even some pastries, can be made the day before to reduce stress on the day of the event.
- Create a build-your-own station: A 'build-your-own' mimosa bar with different juices and fruits or a waffle station with various toppings allows guests to customize their meal.
- Set the mood: Create a relaxed, social atmosphere with background music and comfortable seating. Remember, brunch is about leisure, not formality.
The Social and Psychological Benefits of Brunch
Beyond the delicious food, brunch offers several social and psychological benefits. It serves as a designated time to slow down, connect with friends and family, and enjoy a meal without the rush of a typical weekday. As Guy Beringer originally argued, it can "sweep away the worries and cobwebs of the week". This leisurely pace and social element contribute to a feeling of contentment and well-being, making it a valuable modern tradition.
Conclusion
In summary, the term for eating breakfast and lunch together is brunch. This popular weekend meal is more than just a combination of two smaller meals; it represents a cultural tradition focused on relaxation, socializing, and indulgence. From its beginnings in late 19th-century England to its establishment as an American favorite, brunch has solidified its place as a celebrated part of modern dining culture, offering a perfect blend of sweet and savory dishes in a convivial setting. So next time you're enjoying eggs Benedict with a mimosa in the late morning, you can properly call it what it is—brunch.
Visit Le Diamant Bleu for more on brunch's history and modern dining concepts
