Bottomless brunch is about as fun a way as there is to spend the early part of the day on the weekend, and sometimes during the week.
Recently we zeroed in on 10 New Orleans destinations for no-holds-bar dining and day drinking.
We asked the experts how to maximize that fun, as well as how to avoid being the annoying customer who ruins the party for everyone else.
Here’s what they said.
DO treat your server well.
Many of your servers worked late the night before, and now they’re back to give you a great experience at brunch just a few hours later. Treat them well and they’ll almost always return the favor.
DON'T skip the entrée.
You’d be surprised how many people attempt to take advantage of bottomless drinks without ordering an entrée. Sure, this will save you money, but it’s not fair to your server and the restaurant. If you take up a seat, you should order a full meal. Plus, the food is great, and it will keep you from getting too tipsy.
DO arrive early in the brunch shift.
If you’re a true lover of brunch, you know this meal isn’t meant to be rushed. Get the full experience by making your reservation for the early half of brunch hours so you can relax and enjoy your meal and drinks without worrying about how much time you have left.
DON'T be late to your reservation.
Brunch is popular and there are lots of people looking for a coveted seat. If you or others in your party are late, you could end up losing your spot.
“If you have a friend who's notoriously late, lie to them about the real reservation time,” Nina Compton, executive chef and co-owner of Compere Lapin, said with a laugh. “But, seriously, that way, we can serve you more smoothly.”
DO try it all.
If several hours of bottomless drinks sound monotonous to you, you might be missing some potential variety. Some restaurants offer multiple drinks interchangeably in their bottomless brunch deal. Even those that have only mimosas will have several kinds of juice available to mix with your Champagne. Have fun, try them all.
RELATED: 10 New Orleans destinations for bottomless brunch
DON'T cause a scene.
It’s tough given the amount of mimosas, bloody marys and other cocktails being consumed, but the key is to match the energy of the room. Every brunch is different, so be aware of what’s happening around you. Have a great time, but maybe don’t be the wildest person in the restaurant.
DO request a go-cup.
For some, the end of brunch becomes a race to consume as many drinks as possible before it’s time to leave. This isn’t necessary, however. As you’re asking for your check, ask for one more round in go-cups. Most restaurants will be happy to send you off in high spirits.
DON'T drink before you arrive.
While continuing the party after you leave is encouraged, drinking before you arrive is dicey.
“Our mimosas don’t have a lot of juice in them,” said Isaac Toups, owner and executive chef at Toups Meatery. “If you pregame before bottomless brunch — well, you know how that goes for some people. You’ll have plenty when you get here, don’t worry.”
Matt Haines is author of "The Big Book of King Cake." Contact him at haines.matthew@gmail.com.
