Tulip Noir
Opened: November 2008
This gem of a breakfast-and-lunch cafe, opened by interior designer Dina Romay-Sipe, is a stylish midday escape, with light fixtures, furniture, and coffee paraphernalia that would be just as at home in a design studio as in the casual northside eatery. Egg dishes, like the deluxe Benedict, made with anOmega-3–enriched egg and tweaked with seasonal ingredients, are especially elegant and healthy. The whole-wheat “pancakeys” and the French toast (below), topped with sweet housemade syrups, fulfill the brunch-time craving for sugary decadence. Excellent sides on the ever-changing menu have included bacon seasoned with rosemary and pepper, crispy broccoli-and-cauliflower fritters with Gorgonzola creme fraiche, and vegetarian antipasto salad. Be sure to sip a cup of gourmet organic tea or coffee from the seasonal selection of hot beverages. Each pot comes with its own timer to letyou know when it’s done brewing.
Bottom line: Romay-Sipe’s sensible portions and wholesome ingredients are welcome additions to the typically calorie-laden brunch scene.
1224 W. 86th St., 848-5252,
tulipnoircafe.com
