Brunch is tricky. Choosing between breakfast and lunch food is almost criminal and waking up before noon – especially after a night of drinking – is a tall order. But Elements is worth the challenge.

Tastefully modern, Elements serves up fresh, delectable dishes on East Anapamu Street across from the Santa Barbara Courthouse. Seating on the porch and street offer al fresco dining with beautiful courthouse views.

Elements’ Sunday brunch menu offers a selection of breakfast and lunch items, along with juices, espresso beverages, wine and cocktails. Each dish is made with fresh ingredients, cage-free eggs, sustainable seafood and hand-selected, local produce.

Seafood aficionados find the answer to their breakfast prayers in the Elements Eggs Benedict. Each bite showcases the smoky flavor of the salmon and the rich, creamy lobster hollandaise, complemented by flaky buttermilk biscuits and poached eggs. Lightly seasoned potatoes on the side complete the dish. Visitors looking to carb-load should consider the Hangover Cure. Hungover or not, the satisfying dish is easy to eat. It manages to be greasy and carbohydrate-laden without tasting like a heart attack waiting to happen. The menu offers three levels of The Hangover Cure with french fries, fried eggs and chorizo, and the option to add a bloody mary for $6.50.

For a more traditional lunch, the Ricotta and Tomato Sandwich offer simple flavors in an explosion of texture. Crunchy whole wheat toast contrasts with smooth ricotta cheese and aioli. Tomatoes and sylvetta – a variety of arugula – make each gratifying bite taste like an investment in healthy eating. Even after a filling brunch, dessert is a must. Like an empanada, the Fried Granny Smith Apple Pie’s perfectly crispy shell encompasses a melt-in-your-mouth filling. The dish is sweet but not overly sugary, and each apple string tastes fresh from the tree. A side scoop of coconut gelato creates an unforgettable flavor experience, like a gingerbread man sitting beachside in Hawaii.

Somehow, it doesn’t feel dangerous to eat another bite. Cafe connoisseurs rejoice – espresso beverages are made traditionally at Elements. The cappuccino is perfect, with a layer of light foam swirled on top The restaurant also serves bottomless drip coffee and fresh-squeezed juice. The mimosas are divine, and with the option of making them bottomless for only a few more dollars, you may end up sipping away your Sunday at this heavenly restaurant.

Simple and Satisfying, Elements Serves Up the Perfect Sunday Meal
CHR I S T INE K A R A V A S
TONY UNG / DAILY NEXUS

Print