I spent this weekend in Philadelphia for a friend’s wedding. Though I lived in and near Philadelphia for years, I am always looking to try something new. So I polled my Facebook friends for recommendations for a great brunch spot to try.

I received a variety of recommendations, but the one that jumped out at me was one I wanted to try for ages — Sabrina’s Café. Having heard so many good reviews over the years, I did a little research about the story behind Sabrina’s. Owner Robert DeAbreu opened the restaurant in 2001 after leaving his management position at a Carrabba’s Italian Grill in New Jersey with a dream to create a homestyle restaurant with a twist. With the help of his wife, Raquel, they opened their first location in South Philadelphia, named for their daughter Sabrina.

Over 10 years later and now three locations in Philadelphia, we decided to walk to one closest to our hotel – Sabrina’s Café and Spencer’s Too on 18^th and Callowhill (Spencer being the name of the couple’s son).   

One hesitation I had with trying Sabrina’s was the idea of a long wait for such a popular restaurant. It is fine when you can just walk down the block, but when commuting from the suburbs, the idea can be a bit daunting. However, I called ahead and they said I could add my name to the list in advance. When we arrived, though there was a line outside, we were almost immediately seated in a booth.   

The décor was a very casual, shabby-chic café style, and the service was immediate. As we took in the menu, we realized this was no ordinary diner. The brunch specials were a full page, themed around the Royal Family in honor of their new arrival this week, with funny names like the Auntie Pippa Omelet and the Third in Line to the Thrown Pancakes. Each item had the most diverse number of ingredients I have ever seen. I opted for a more conservative item, the challah French toast, while my date went with a bolder choice. 

Our meal was fantastic and very reasonably priced. I noticed other tables arrive with bottles of Champagne. As a BYO, you are welcome to bring a bottle and create your own mimosas. Another great Philadelphia dining experience.  

— Danielle Hudena, executive vice president