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Madres Brunch
Master Critic Review
Madres Brunch
8.0
Vibes:
Brunch Bliss Spots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Girls Night Out Approved
Birthday & Celebration Central
Instagram-centric Mexican-American brunch chain bringing colorful, shareable plates and mimosa flights to Downtown Long Beach since October 2024. The menu features vibrant dishes like birria benedict and churro French toast, with the signature "Journey" pancakes paying homage to co-owner Mel Zepeda's strawberry shortcake inspiration.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Benedict, Chilaquiles Verdes, Journey Pancakes (Strawberry Shortcake)
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Technicolor sugar-bomb presentations perfect for social media moments
Who should go: Groups seeking photogenic brunch with specialty coffee flights
When to visit: Weekday mornings to avoid weekend dance competition crowds
What to order: Birria benedict for savory, churro French toast for sweet, coffee flights to share
Insider tip: Request server Coleen or Liz who receive consistent praise for attentive service
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on 2nd Street and surrounding blocks, metered until 8pm. Public lot at 200 E 3rd Street ($2/hour). Arrive early on weekends.
Dress code: Casual brunch attire - think trendy athleisure or Sunday best. Instagram-ready outfits encouraged given the photo-friendly aesthetic.
Noise level: Lively and energetic - expect upbeat music and buzzing conversation. Better for groups than intimate chats.
Weekend wait: Not applicable - brunch hours only (typically closes mid-afternoon)
Weekday lunch: 15-25 minutes for walk-ins during late morning. Minimal wait after 1pm on weekdays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple options including veggie scrambles, avocado toast variations, and pancake flights. Easily half the menu works.
Vegan options: Limited - can modify some dishes (pancakes without eggs, avocado toast without cheese). Call ahead for best accommodations.
Gluten-free options: Limited - mainly egg-based dishes and some salads. No dedicated GF prep area. Not ideal for celiac needs.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves energetic, Instagram-centric scenes. The vibrant atmosphere works for casual day dates, but loud music and group-focused energy make deep conversation tough. Better as a second or third date for outgoing personalities.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekdays yes, weekends risky. They opened in October 2024, so weekend crowds are still building. Arrive before 10am on Saturdays or after 1pm to improve odds. Groups of 5+ should always book ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly - the colorful presentations and sweet options (churro French toast, Journey pancakes) appeal to children. High chairs available. The energetic vibe means crying babies won't raise eyebrows.
Best For
Better for: Instagram content creation, large group brunches (4-8 people), mimosa flights and specialty coffee exploration, adventurous Mexican-American fusion. Beats competitors on visual presentation and shareable drink flights.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, authentic Mexican breakfast (this leans American fusion), healthy/light options, or quick service under 30 minutes. Choose Breakfast Bar for speed, HomeState for Texas-Mexican authenticity, or Republic for sophisticated adult brunch.