Friday Five: Best Family-Friendly Brunch

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day but I hate getting up early. Enter brunch! Going out for brunch is one of my favorite things to do on a cozy weekend morning -- I think I've eaten brunch in every city in Hampton Roads (except Suffolk! If you know a good place over there, please let me know. I'd love to try it out.)

The only requirements I have for a brunch place is a great Bloody Mary and a family-friendly atmosphere (since babysitters aren't usually available bright and early on weekend mornings). Here are my five favorite kid-friendly brunch places in #HRVA. What're yours?

1. Waterman's (Virginia Beach): We visited this beachfront restaurant last weekend after seeing Santa at the aquarium and it jumped to the top of the list based on the lovely view alone. Luckily, the menu is also good -- a lot of interesting specials, varied kid selections, and best of all, they bring a cinnamon roll basket to the table like other restaurants bring bread. They also proudly support the Sustainable Seafood program. What's not to like? Try: the Orange Crush.

2. No Frill Grill (Norfolk): My all-time favorite brunch place from way back, down in the heart of Ghent (there's also one at Hilltop). The name suits it -- the food isn't fancy or frilly but just plain well done. Can get a little packed on Sunday mornings but it's always worth the (minor) wait. Try: the Crab Benedict.

3. Conch and Bucket (Hampton): A sweet new(ish) place in adorable downtown Hampton. C&B has an emphasis on seafood with some creative combinations (salmon and orange risotto, seafood mac and cheese) but also does the traditional brunch classics well. My favorite part (besides the food) is probably the bricked-in, vine-covered patio out back; in the summer, it feels like you're eating in someone's backyard, not an urban city block. Try the Italian Bread French Toast (my friend swears by their creme brulee cheesecake if you're feeling dessert-ish).

4. Beach Pub (Virginia Beach): Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, this Laskin Road location has been around for over 35 years. It's not fancy but the food is amazing. Try: the Oysters Rockefeller and the blueberry muffins.

5. Charlie's Cafe (Norfolk): Charlie's is a Norfolk institution. Besides great service and a relaxed vibe, this (more than a) diner makes omelets that are feather-light and perfectly done. Charlie's just moved to its new location in Riverview on Granby Street and we can't wait to check it out (the top pic is Anouk at the old location over the summer). Try: the sake Bloody Mary and a bag of fresh Norfolk donuts.

Now I'm hungry. Happy weekend, all!