cami c.
Yelp
So I woke up Sunday morning after Valentine's Day and said to W, how about we go the Benicia for breakfast? He didn't hesitate to say sure, where? Now, I'm not a big breakfast person, but I wanted brunch. Pancakes, so I thought. But more than our usual latte and a pastry or small egg snack. I looked on Yelp and found Baxters and was immediate interested in the crab cake Benedict. What pancakes?! And so we were off.
Once in town, we also considered another location on the waterfront with views--which was open earlier. Also has crab cake Benedict. But 3.3 stars vs 4.7 on Yelp, so wait we did. I know, long intro--let's get to it!
Baxters is a tiny place! I was too late for reservations, but we always enjoy eating at the bar, and while it sits maybe eight, we had it to ourselves when we arrived about 15 minutes after opening. The bartender was immediately engaging, and I started asking about the crab cake Benedict's, and, ooooh! The shrimp and grits! Soon discovered that said delightful bartender is also the owner, so I got the dets on many dishes.
The dishes have a distinct NOLA flare, and we love NOLA! Ok, I'm still rambling--pancakes are ancient memories, and now the Benedict is off my list, replaced by the creamy, two-cheese grits topped with perfectly grilled prawns and a moat of oh-so-delish sherry-based gravy with a blend of secret spices. It. Is. So. Good!
W had the croissant french toast with bourbon maple syrup. The dish had a perfect amount of cinnamon and sat atop a thick lemon cream sauce that was oh, so, delectable! And paired perfectly with fresh blueberries!
We also had oat milk lattes with our meal, which were delicious! But most guests were imbibing in the many flavors of champagne cocktails the establishment offered.
Baxters menu is an all-day menu except for Sundays, when that menu is enhanced by the Sunday Brunch offerings. We can't wait to go back for dinner in "The Office"--which is a Speakeasy section of the restaurant that seats only eight. (Reservations required. Book for up to four on Open Table. Call if you want six or eight.) Looking forward to trying the scallops with garlic mash!
If you're a local and haven't yet been to Baxters, (new owners just 1.5 years ago), run, don't walk! And enjoy!