Brunch at Piccino

Piccino, nestled in the heart of the Dogpatch, offers an inviting space for a leisurely brunch, with its bright interior, warm hues, and busy dining room. Known for its Italian-inspired comfort food, the restaurant has earned its reputation as a go-to spot for everything from breakfast dates to celebratory meals. On this visit, I was particularly impressed by the creativity of the dishes on the menu—there’s a playful mix of rich, comforting classics and lighter options that intrigue. The wine selection is also worth noting, with a thoughtfully curated list that pairs beautifully with the menu’s flavors, even at brunch.

The Dishes

• Savory Bread Pudding:
  This dish was nothing short of phenomenal and the highlight of the meal. A rich, smoky mix of smoked cheddar and bacon was layered with a velvety besciamella that brought depth and indulgence to every bite. The poached egg on top was perfectly cooked, its yolk creating an effortless sauce that tied the dish together. It was the type of comfort food that lingers in your mind long after the meal—balanced, well-seasoned, and undeniably satisfying. If you visit Piccino, this is the dish you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
• Bernal Bakery Toast with Sweet Ricotta and Seasonal Jam:
  This dish, while pleasant, didn’t quite leave the same impression. The bread was well-toasted with a lovely crunch, and the sweet ricotta provided a creamy counterpoint to the tart, fruity jam. However, it felt a bit one-dimensional, more like a quick sweet fix than a standout offering. It’s a solid choice if you’re in the mood for something light and dessert-like to round out a savory dish, but on its own, it doesn’t steal the spotlight.
• Cavolfiore Pizza:
  Unfortunately, the pizza fell flat. The concept was intriguing, featuring caramelized onions, habanada peppers, mozzarella, and pecorino, but the execution left much to be desired. The onions and balsamic reduction overwhelmed the dish, masking the more delicate flavors of the mozzarella and cauliflower. Instead of a harmonious combination, it felt cloying and unbalanced, a rare miss for a restaurant that often excels in pizza.

Service & Atmosphere

The service during my visit was a tale of two extremes. The host was exceptionally accommodating, making the walk-in process smooth and welcoming despite the brunch rush. Their helpful and professional demeanor set the tone for a great experience. Unfortunately, the server fell short of those same standards. Their brusque attitude and inattentiveness felt out of sync with the otherwise warm atmosphere of the restaurant, leaving a slightly sour note on an otherwise enjoyable meal.

Piccino’s space itself is lovely, with a bright and cozy ambiance that invites you to settle in and enjoy your meal. The natural light and minimalist decor strike a perfect balance between rustic charm and modern sensibility, making it an ideal setting for a relaxed brunch.

Final Thoughts

Piccino’s brunch offerings showcase a mix of hits and misses. The creative menu is filled with thoughtful touches, and the savory bread pudding is a standout, demonstrating the kitchen’s ability to deliver flavorful dishes that satisfy on every level. The Bernal Bakery toast is a fine supporting act, while the pizza needs a bit of refinement to balance its bold flavors.

Service was uneven, with a fantastic host making up for a less-than-stellar server, and the overall experience left me feeling ambivalent. Would I return? Likely, but with tempered expectations. For the bread pudding, the wine selection, and the inviting ambiance, Piccino still holds its place as a reliable brunch destination, but it’s not without its flaws.

Sincerely,

Shaye Story