Complementary Decadence Brunch is not a meal our staff takes lightly at Upgraded Living, nor do we often find it offered lightly either. It is, by far, our favorite meal of the week, and if it were available every day, we likely wouldn’t start our workdays until 2pm. Brunch promises decadence, escape, and the ability to indulge in a cocktail or three before attending to the more pressing matters of the day. Luckily, with brunch menus being offered primarily on weekends, the most pressing matter might be a well-deserved nap right after. Parkside Tap House has long been a favorite of ours where brunch is concerned. Their menu is focused with only eight items, which they produce exceptionally well, and each brings something different to the table. What’s more, the focused menu makes deciding considerably easier. The last thing we want to do on a weekend is spend our time pouring over a menu to decide what sounds best. 14
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Though short, the menu is well-balanced, and there’s something available for every taste. If you’re looking for savory, you’ll find it in their Lobster Benedict—knuckle & claw lobster meat and poached eggs on an English muffin covered in Hollandaise. Perhaps something sweet? Order their French toast, which arrives generously topped with macerated seasonal fruit and house-made whipped cream. Crunchy? Their chilaquiles will surely satisfy with house-made corn tortilla chips and carne asada topped with verde sauce, black beans, cheddar, and two eggs. Comfort food? There’s only one way to go—their nocalorie-spared biscuits and gravy made with house-made buttermilk biscuits, country style gravy, and spiced sausage—to which we always add eggs. If you’re looking for something quick and easy, their breakfast tacos are a perfect choice. Parkside’s brunch menu has options for vegetarians as well, such as their Breakfast
Burrito made with soyrizo and their Veggie Benedict with asparagus. Finally, what would a brunch menu be without avocado toast? Thankfully, Parkside’s doesn’t skimp on toppings— sourdough toast covered with avocado, arugula, cherry tomatoes, cotija cheese, pesto vinaigrette, pickled onions, and eggs your way. Regardless of what piques your interest, you have the option to enjoy your meal with a free dose of Vitamin-D on their massive patio or indoors if you find it too hot outside. Complemented by their expansive all-day cocktail list and brunch drink menu, you really can’t go wrong. Drop by Parkside Tap House at 115 W. 3rd Street in Chico from 10am-2pm Saturday and Sunday to sample their menu for yourself.
