The Duck Confit Scramble with white cheddar, onions, and herbs is typical of Tribune’s style. I’m fairly certain I haven’t had duck confit with eggs, and it left me wondering why I waited so long. The small side of Italian parsley was lightly dressed with lemon and just enough salt to cut the bitterness of each bite. It also cut the richness of the confit without overpowering the dish. We also shared the Colcannon Hash with eggs sunny-side up, bacon and a Calabrian chile hollandaise. Again, a dish rooted in the familiar vein of well-executed comfort food with the chile hollandaise bringing an oozy kick.

Duck Confit Scramble served with Italian parsley dressed with lemon and salt. Photo: Jonathan Darr

SALAD

Salad in the morning? At Brunch? I’m one of those people who just can’t get enough salad and I’ve never been a fan of the idea that certain foods are only for certain times of day. While people may gravitate to the more starchy and heavy parts of the menu, Tribune’s salads are not to be missed and are generous in their portions. The salads, like the rest of the menu, rotate seasonally. Today’s version had arugula, spinach, roasted cauliflower, potatoes, walnuts, pickled onions and clothbound cheddar. We had the option of adding grilled chicken ($3) or poached yellowtail ($4).

Salad at Brunch? Why Not! Photo: Jonathan Darr

MORNING BREAD

On our quick tour through the kitchen we saw a considerable baking operation taking place. Tribune makes their breads and scones fresh each day. We shared a currant scone that was served with plum jam and whipped butter. I thought I’d miss the clotted cream that I’m used to with scones, but the whipped butter works.

Currant Scone with Wild Plum Jam. Photo: Jonathan Darr

We enjoyed getting to talk to Executive Chef Huw Thornton and the staff of Tribune Tavern. Brunch service is new for the restaurant, and it will be interesting to see how the place fills in.

Tribune Tavern
401 13th Street
TribuneTavern.com
Brunch: Sat. & Sun. 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Dinner: Mon.-Thu. and Sun. 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Jonathan DarrJonathan Darr

Tribune Tavern Opens for Brunch: A Sneak Peek