OpenTable, the popular restaurant reservations platform, just released its first 100-strong user-generated list since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic that practically decimated the hospitality in 2020: The 100 Best Brunch Restaurants in America.
In pre-pandemic times, the company has been known to release several of these lists annually. (Some notable ones from past years include America’s 100 Best Restaurants for a Big Night Out, The 100 Most Romantic Restaurants In America, The 100 Best Al Fresco Restaurants in America, and many others.)
But, understandably, that practice was put on pause amid the crisis, when many establishments closed—for good or temporarily, to weather the economic storm.
However, now that vaccination rollouts are well underway with more than 32% of Americans being fully vaccinated and 44% having received at least once dose, this year is looking (much) brighter than the last. Restaurant restrictions have finally been eased. And if it’s any indication at all, it looks like America is finally on track to reopen—albeit gradually and cautiously.
According to an OpenTable survey, 33% of Americans haven’t not seen their extended families in gatherings in more than a year. Furthermore, its data shows bookings today are up by 64% compared to pre-pandemic reservations in 2019. “This Mother’s Day will be more meaningful than ever since it’s likely to be the first occasion that families are reuniting since the beginning of the pandemic,” OpenTable CEO Debby Soo said in a statement. “We wanted to make sure diners had the best brunch restaurants at their fingertips as they make plans to celebrate this special holiday with their loved ones.”
The comprehensive list—which features restaurants across 24 states and the District of Columbia—was culled from more than 12 million verified diner reviews of over 30,000 restaurants in 50 states and Washington, D.C.
California tops the list with 17 honorees. Florida and Pennsylvania are tied in second place, each with eight superb restaurants. Illinois and Texas each boast seven winning restaurants; while Georgia, Minnesota, and Nevada claim six honorees.
Scroll down to view the full list—or click here.