The Friendly Toast: All-Day Brunch, Local Ingredients

0:00The friendly toast that go to brunch spot in West Hartford, Connecticut just leveled up its game with fresh menus rolling out across 14 spots in five New England states. Think all day brunch every day of the week packed with from scratch dishes using local seasonal ingredients. Owner Eric Goodwin calls it a curated family restaurant group, not some basic chain, and they're aiming to blow your mind from the first bite. Goodwin scooped up the place back in 2014 when it was just two locations, and now it's thriving in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, and Massachusetts. He lives and breathes these spots, focusing on small batch cooking that feels personal, like inviting folks into his own kitchen. Diner's are loving the warm nostalgic vibe with kitschy decor from estate sales that screams bygone eras, all bright and welcoming. Hospitality is king here. Think staff treating you like family over plates of stuff tater tots or pork belly eggs, Benedict, no greasy spoon vibes, it's elevated comfort food

1:01that hits sweet and savory notes. Last month's menu refresh dropped hits like citrus chicken pallard with tagine and hot honey chicken bites, plus expanded drinks including beer, wine, mimosa flights, and spicy motels with muddled jalapenos. They source from top producers for real, high quality meals you'd feed your own crew. Places open as early as 7.30 a.m. weekdays, stretching later on weekends, so whether you're chasing caffeine dreams or a bloody marry lineup, the friendly toast keeps the brunch flow fresh and inviting. That's your update from Hartford News today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with The Story.