Brunch has long been dominated by avocado toast, pancakes, and eggs Benedict—but a new contender is stealing the spotlight: pasta. From creamy carbonara to zesty lemon ricotta, more restaurants are folding rich, comforting pasta dishes into their weekend brunch menus—and diners are embracing the switch.
Whether you’re craving a savory, yolk-topped bowl after a night out or simply looking to break from the standard brunch fare, here’s why pasta belongs at the brunch table and where to find some of the best versions in major cities.
Why Pasta Works for Brunch
Pasta’s adaptability is what makes it perfect for brunch. It can lean rich and indulgent (think pancetta and pecorino), light and citrusy (hello, lemon ricotta), or even breakfast-inspired with ingredients like eggs, bacon, and seasonal greens. Combined with a mimosa or espresso martini, it hits all the right notes—comforting, satisfying, and just a little unexpected.
Brunch-Worthy Pasta Dishes to Look For
- Carbonara: With eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper, it blurs the line between breakfast and dinner
- Lemon ricotta pasta: Light, bright, and perfect for spring brunch menus
- Baked ziti or lasagna: Ideal for those who prefer their brunch hearty
- Cacio e pepe with poached eggs: A creamy, peppery dish elevated with a runny yolk
- Pasta al forno: A baked pasta casserole that feels both indulgent and familiar
Where to Try Pasta for Brunch
- Lilia – Brooklyn, NY
Lilia may be known for its dinner service, but their weekend brunch features standout pasta dishes like ricotta gnocchi and mafaldini that bridge breakfast and lunch with finesse.
- Bestia – Los Angeles, CA
While not a traditional brunch spot, Bestia occasionally features brunch events and pasta-forward tasting menus that blend sweet and savory in creative ways. Keep an eye on seasonal offerings.
- Monteverde – Chicago, IL
Monteverde is one of Chicago’s most celebrated pasta destinations. Their weekend offerings rotate often, but lemony pastas and yolk-rich dishes make frequent appearances.
- Locanda Verde – New York, NY
This Tribeca staple offers a popular brunch menu featuring hearty Italian flavors. Locanda Verde has served dishes like sheep’s milk ricotta with lemon, lasagna, and brunch-friendly spaghetti alla chitarra.
- Coppa – Boston, MA
Coppa serves Italian small plates, but their brunch menu leans into savory indulgence with offerings like egg-topped carbonara or baked pasta with pork ragu.
- L’Artusi – New York, NY
A West Village favorite, L’Artusi doesn’t offer brunch in the traditional sense, but weekend daytime pasta cravings are easily satisfied with their rich buttered noodles and signature ricotta dumplings.
For more brunch trend inspiration, check out Time Out’s brunch coverage in cities like NYC, LA, and beyond.
Pasta Brunch at Home
Want to try brunch pasta at home? Start with:
- A lemon ricotta spaghetti using fresh zest and whipped ricotta
- A classic carbonara with eggs and crispy pancetta
- Cacio e pepe with a poached egg on top
It’s simple, fast, and perfect for impressing weekend guests.
