Meritage

Photos:

A relative newcomer to the downtown St. Paul restaurant scene, Meritage breathes fresh life on the historic Rice Park area with its European charm and weekend brunch. 

Arriving late on a Sunday morning and undecided on eating breakfast or lunch, we opted for a variety of offerings. To start, two amusements—petite appetizer bites for $3 each—of a smoked salmon blini and a granola yogurt parfait. Alongside the dried apricot scones with butter and jam, these treats did the trick in taking the edge off our hunger.

True to its name, Meritage’s seasonal menu is a blend of American and French cuisine, sourced locally and organically when possible. Breakfast favorites such as pancakes dolled up with blueberries and lemon marscapone and vanilla scented French toast take their places next to updated classics like the fresh Main lobster omelet and the croque madame (hot ham and cheese with fried egg and mornay sauce).

The entrees soon arrived—blueberry pancakes with a side of sausage, a ham and cheese omelet and the Pork Rilette with Fig Puree. Each selection was individually unique and delicious, with the favorite being the French-style omelet du jour—a beautiful deep yellow omelet filled with onion, ham and cheddar cheese that was full-flavored and creamy-smooth. And if it’s lunch you’re after, their menu features a Seared Ahi Tuna Salad Nicoise, a housemade hamburger, and a lunch version of the French classic Steak Frites.

Along with food that fits any brunch appetite, a varied crowd also fits with Meritage's light, airy space with tall ceilings, classic tables and antique mirrors. But be it a bellini, an omelet or a hot ham and cheese that you crave, Meritage serves up brunch that’s sure to kick start any weekend day.

Katie Cannon is the blogger behind Camacho Watcho as well as an up-and-coming Twin Cities photographer. She both works and plays in the Mill District of downtown Minneapolis.

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