A tradition I was introduced to last summer in NY was that of the Sunday Brunch. Rolling out of bed on Sunday morning, tossing hair into a messy bun, and throwing on a wrinkled oxford and leggings, we would hop in a taxi and settle into comfy banquettes, eager to recount the adventures of the weekend over mimosas, eggs and carbs.

Today I was lucky enough to be taken to brunch by my new friend and role model Crystyl, who knows that I was/am obsessed with Gramercy Tavern, which was right by my Gramercy apartment. Famed for their impeccable selection and service (more importantly), it is a perfect place to enjoy gastronomy and the company you’re with. Crystyl took me to brunch at a restaurant called Madison, whose head chef and owner Austin Hu used to sous chef there. I died. Hu’s forte is that he aims to use exclusively local ingredients, to accentuate the freshness and delicacy of Shanghai’s fare. I didn’t take many pictures, but don’t let the paucity fool you - we ate A LOT. And I left Madison not only full and content, but with that blithe feeling that comes only after unwinding on a Sunday afternoon with good food and even better company.

Carbs…….. the beignets even came with chocolate & raspberry sauces.

Deviled eggs and pickled string beans, carrots and cauliflower.

Bailey’s and peanut butter ice cream. Unbearably good.