Brunch in Baltimore isn’t just a meal—it’s a sport. It’s the kind of thing people have opinions about. Ask five different Baltimoreans where to get the best brunch, and you’ll get five completely different answers—each one more passionate than the last.

So, let’s settle the debate once and for all: where is the best brunch in Baltimore?

To be fair, there’s no one right answer. The best brunch spot depends on what you’re looking for—bottomless mimosas? A classic diner vibe? A fancy spread with crab everything? We’ve broken it down into categories, so you can decide for yourself.

1. Best Classic Baltimore Brunch: Miss Shirley’s Café

📍 Inner Harbor, Roland Park

If Baltimore had an official brunch spot, it would be Miss Shirley’s. This place is a legend, known for its over-the-top Southern-inspired dishes and ridiculously good pancakes. It’s the kind of place you take your out-of-town friends when you want to impress them with true Baltimore flavor.

Must-try:

• The Chicken ‘N Cheddar Green Onion Waffles—because brunch without fried chicken is just breakfast.

• The Coconut Cream-Stuffed French Toast—pure indulgence.

• Shirley’s Affair with Oscar—a filet mignon, crab cake, and fried green tomato benedict because why choose between crab and steak when you can have both?

Bottom Line: Miss Shirley’s is the place for a classic Baltimore brunch, but be warned—there will be a wait. It’s worth it.

2. Best Bottomless Brunch: Blue Moon Too

📍 Federal Hill

Brunch is great. Bottomless brunch? Even better. If you’re looking to turn your Sunday into an all-day affair, Blue Moon Too has you covered. Their food is just as legendary as their drinks, and their colossal cinnamon rolls are famous.

Must-try:

• The Captain Crunch French Toast—yes, it’s as good as it sounds.

• The Moon Fries—crispy, golden, and dangerously addictive.

• The bottomless mimosas & Bloody Marys—because that’s why you came.

Bottom Line: If you’re brunching with a group and plan to stay awhile, this is your spot.

3. Best Hangover Brunch: The Food Market

📍 Hampden

Some brunches are for socializing. Others are for recovery. If you need to be revived from last night’s questionable decisions, The Food Market in Hampden is the move. Their brunch menu is packed with hearty, greasy, life-saving dishes that will get you back on your feet.

Must-try:

• The “OMG” Fries—covered in crab, Old Bay, and cheese. Enough said.

• The Hot & Spicy Bloody Mary—hair of the dog, perfected.

• The Short Rib Benedict—because you need protein to function.

Bottom Line: If you wake up and need brunch instead of want brunch, head to The Food Market.

4. Best Upscale Brunch: Gunther & Co.

📍 Brewers Hill

Brunch doesn’t always have to be a casual, roll-out-of-bed event. If you’re in the mood for something a little fancier—but still laid-back—Gunther & Co. delivers. The setting is sleek, the food is high-quality, and the menu has an international flair.

Must-try:

• The Duck Confit Hash—a serious upgrade from your usual potatoes and eggs.

• The Savory Dutch Baby—a fluffy, crispy pancake with a brunch twist.

• The Lavender Lemonade Mimosa—because you’re classy now.

Bottom Line: If you’re celebrating something (or just pretending to be fancy for the day), Gunther & Co. is the way to go.

5. Best Hidden Gem Brunch: Water for Chocolate

📍 Upper Fells Point

Some of the best brunch spots in Baltimore aren’t the ones with the biggest crowds—they’re the ones tucked away, waiting to be discovered. Water for Chocolate is a small, cozy spot in Upper Fells that serves soulful, creative dishes with serious flavor.

Must-try:

• The Crispy Salmon Hash—a brunch twist on Baltimore seafood.

• The Mac & Cheese Omelet—yes, you read that right.

• The Mango Butter Pancakes—soft, fluffy, and unforgettable.

Bottom Line: This place might not have the hype of bigger brunch spots, but once you eat here, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t talking about it.

So, What’s the Verdict?

At the end of the day, the best brunch in Baltimore depends on what you’re craving. If you want a Baltimore classic, go to Miss Shirley’s. If you want to drink a lot, Blue Moon Too is your best bet. Need recovery food? The Food Market. Something fancy? Gunther & Co. A hidden gem? Water for Chocolate.

The real winner? You, because in Baltimore, you can’t go wrong with brunch.

Now, let’s hear it—where’s your favorite brunch spot in Baltimore? Drop your pick in the comments and let’s settle the debate!