80 Proof Might Sound Like Cocktails. Think Brunch.

NEW HAVEN, CT—When you hear 80 Proof is the restaurant, brunch probably isn’t what comes to mind.

But on Tuesday Sept. 8, brunch is calling at 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar, the downtown New Haven eatery.

The Crown Street restaurant introduces its brunch daytime dining experience, served Tuesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

According to its announcement, "The new menu brings 80 Proof’s fun, high-energy personality to the daytime hours with an extensive lineup that moves easily from classic breakfast favorites to Latin-inspired specialties, over-the-top sweet creations, hearty comfort food, and brunch cocktails."

"We want brunch at 80 Proof to feel like an occasion, even when there’s no occasion," Chef Sonia Salazar said. “And at 80 Proof, you don’t have to wait for Sunday."

What's on the menu?

For Benedict fans, the menu includes lobster, steak, arepa and salmon Benedict. Then there's the robust Steak & Eggs and The Three Little Pigs, a combination of ham, pulled pork, and bacon with caramelized onions and Brie.

The menu’s 'Morning Chisme' section—named after a popular podcast—adds Latin flavor with Chilaquiles, a classic Colombian breakfast; Calentado, a Colombian hash; and a hearty breakfast burrito.

Sweet over savory? The menu includes Nutella Strawberry Crepes, Guava Queso Blanco Crepes, Dulce de Leche French Toast, and Churro Waffles, while Southern favorites include Chicken & Waffles, Shrimp & Grits, Biscuits & Gravy, and 80 Proof’s popular Mac & Cheese.

And, at 80 Proof's brunch, "every day is Mimosa Day," and otehr creative cocktails include Buenos Dias Margarita, Café Con Leche Espresso Martini, Maple Cold Brew Old Fashioned, Living La Vida Mocha, and a Prosecco Spritz. Non-alcoholic coffee drinks are also available.

About 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar

80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar is part of the New Haven restaurant portfolio created by Chef Sonia Salazar and Sarah Cornelius.

The restaurant opened in June 2020 and is the duo’s third New Haven restaurant concept, joining Te Amo Tequila Bar & Tacos, which opened in 2018, and Barracuda Bistro & Bar, which opened in 2014 and relocated in 2024 to 80 Proof’s 5,000-square-foot Crown Street home, and now occupies the back half of the address, allowing guests to experience two distinct concepts under one roof.

The restaurants share an emphasis on bold flavors, vibrant cocktails, great music, and genuine hospitality.

With The Place To Brunch, 80 Proof is giving New Haven another reason to get an early start or make the morning last well into the afternoon.

80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar is located at 196 Crown St., in downtown New Haven. Brunch is served Tuesday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning Sept. 8.