The Rail, San Diego’s oldest gay bar, is also, unexpectedly, an absolute must for Sunday brunch.

At first, this unassuming corner bar just seems like any other downtown/Hillcrest spot airing sports games and serving cocktails. But behind the scenes, Chef Chad is serving up some incredible dishes (and has been since May 2017.)

Before you try anything else, order the tomato fennel bisque. I kid you not, it’s the best I have ever had. Ever.

It’s a creamy, delicious blend of tomato, fennel, cream, and garlic – and for a small upcharge, you can have The Rail add in a splash of exclusive Old Grove gin. (Do it.) The juniper berries in the gin mix delightfully with the fennel, and the garlic crostinis soak it all up.

I’m salivating just thinking about it!

Of course, as breakfast-holics, my sister and I went for some classic dishes with a trendy, gourmet twist:

Breakfast Flatbread {eggs + bacon + sausage + cheese + avocado + onion on focaccia}

Waffle Sandwich {scrambled eggs + bacon + avocado aioli + bacon jam between two Belgian waffles}

Both of these were absolutely delicious, with every mouthful bursting with flavor.

Plus, you can’t go wrong with the Ketel One Mule, and of course, coffee….or you know, a bottle of champagne and endless juice (cranberry, orange, or grapefruit) for just $15 is the way to go on a Sunday morning at The Rail.

Oh, and ask for Lance, if he’s in – he’s the best.

More info: http://www.thebrassrailsd.com/menus/brunch/