New Restaurant: Over Easy

By Lena Gidwani, March 21, 2016

We all know the British invented drinking, but did you know they invented brunch as well?

This in-between meal – not quite breakfast, not quite lunch – has been greatly improved by the addition of daytime-appropriate bubbly, due in part to the popularity of the ‘hair of the dog’ cure — drink more booze and your hangover will disappear.

While this wave of alcohol-soaked midday dining may have its roots across the pond, what could be a more natural activity for us Guangzhouers than a sociable meal and excessive amounts of mimosas?

Over Easy is the city’s latest all-day fusion brunch bistro, brought to you by Senses, the culinary artistes behind 63 Burger & Booze and Steak & Burger. Bright and airy, with loads of outdoor patio seating, hanging shrubberies and green sunshades, this double shop front is welcoming, and there are no judgmental eyes here.

One can eat sweet treats for dinner: try the egg waffles (RMB68) or the fluffy carrot hotcakes (RMB68) drizzled with maple syrup and topped with a dollop of fresh ricotta, fruit, seeds and plenty of edible blossoms that add zest and color.

More on the ‘br’ than the ‘unch’ side of things, dishes like baked eggs (RMB68) come in a delicious hot ramekin of sausages, vegetables, cheese and almonds, while the benedict crumpets with ham, pastrami, runny eggs and hollandaise sauce (RMB48) delight.

Those who seek a hit of omega-3 should try the smoked salmon on open-face, multigrain toast (RMB68). Topped with arugula, it’s simple, healthy and hits the spot. Vegetarian items are marked, but it is wise to note that eggs are included in these dishes, so will be more suited to ovo-lacto types.

There are healthier choices like soy scrambled eggs (RMB58), Bircher muesli with poached pears (RMB78) and salads. For those wanting heavier mains for late afternoons or evenings, the brief selection of pastas and sandwiches will go down well. Himalayan pink salt, cracked black pepper and granulated brown sugar sit in bowls on each table, a nice touch that hints at Over Easy’s attention to detail.

We mentioned bubbly, didn’t we? Try an Innocent Bystander sparkling Moscato, a refreshing sipper that offers delicious aromas of pink grapefruit, mandarin, cotton candy and toffee apple. If the occasion fits, pair the Southern Cross Silver sparkling series (RMB268/bottle) with fresh orange juice (RMB38/48) for fizzy mimosas.

Smoothies (RMB40/50) are recommended too; ask for a refreshing berries girl or the Hulk for a solid punch of green power. Over Easy also sells plenty of fresh baked bread, pastries and desserts, made daily to match coffees and teas.

A note on the service: you will have to order at the main counter, and it can be a tad on the slow side, so be warned if you’re absolutely famished or the impatient type.

All in all, Over Easy is a decent celebration of all things breakfast and lunch, offered up as leisurely as possible.