Brunch For The Broke: Nodding Head

We've all been here before: it's the end of the week and you're out of money until pay day. You're broke, you're hungry, and as much as you would love to channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw and roll out of bed to meet up with your best gal pals for brunch you want to lay low, take a breather from gluttony and enjoy brunch on the cheap.

Known for its funky décor and super hip brews, Nodding Head in Philadelphia. Monday through Saturday this second floor dive is home to ultra-hipsters and beer connoisseurs, all fighting for a spot at the bar during the happiest hour of the day. It has been a hidden champion among the beer lovers in the City of Brotherly Love. The select six beers that Nodding Head features on tap rotate to fit the season or mood, and the hot spot is recognized by its interesting and lesser-known varieties. Constantly updated and always cold, Nodding Head's brews are a healthy dose of hops.
Climb the stairs on a Sunday and the space takes on a different vibe in the light of day.

On a recent Sunday, The Daily Meal paid a visit to Nodding Head's brunch. Grand Marnier French toast the size of a small table topped with warm and gooey caramelized apples couldn't be shoveled into my mouth fast enough. The crunchy crust gives way to a soft and doughy middle, seeming too good to be true. The breakfast sandwich is really the highlight of the meal. A salmon, egg and bacon three-way of joy, the bun is lightly grilled and the ingredients are fresh. The sandwich is served with equally noteworthy potato fritters. The brunch is accompanied with live music from a four-piece band whose tunes are so catchy we couldn't help bobbing our heads to the tunes, resembling the figurines lining the dining room's glass cases.

The whimsical atmosphere at this tucked-away gem, the fascinating beers, the bouncy music, and the unbelievable food is under $35 for two yielding a blissful brunch for the broke and the affluent, alike.

Stephanie Walters is a Philadelphia-based Contributing Writer for The Daily Meal.