Shreveport has traditionally been a great town for breakfast, which happens to be my favorite meal of the day. I had many a memorable morning at legendary spots like Murrell’s, George’s and Joe’s, but time has not been kind to the city, and most of the unique local breakfast places, like many other Shreveport restaurants, are no more. (Strawn’s Eat Place is an exception to that rule, and more on it will be forthcoming). But, not to worry, Shreveport has gained some new breakfast places to fill the void, of which the new Up For Brunch is the most intriguing.
The West End of Shreveport along Texas, Avenue, once the center of Black entrepreneurship, has been rendered an apocalyptic wasteland by the the construction of Interstates 20 & 49 and years of abandonment and neglect. But in the midst of this drab and dreary view, Up For Brunch exudes a sunny, upbeat and positive image that is both infectious and contagious. Bright whites, yellows, golds and oranges characterize the outside and inside decor, along with plenty of glass and chrome. Even on a dreary day, which this was, the inside was cheerful. Of equal interest was the outdoor deck and seating, which on a warm and sunny day would be quite welcome. Through a peculiarity of the building design, it seems to be on the second level, even though it is even with the ground floor that one walks into from the street side. It overlooks I-20, which is not exactly a romantic site, but I imagine that if one looks to the northeast, the city skyline is visible.
Up for Brunch has a fairly diverse menu, centered around waffles. There is of course chicken and waffles, biscuit waffles, mini cornbread waffles, pancakes, omelettes, skillets and a breakfast roll (which sounds something like a burrito). There are also lunch-type items like shrimp and grits and cajun catfish and grits. Coffee was great and the service was quite attentive.
Like all new brunch places, prices were not cheap. This is not a hole-in-the-wall diner, but a more upscale breakfast experience, but unlike IHOP, Denny’s or Waffle House, they have mimosas. Also, I would imagine that the place gets quite crowded at times, although we visited on a Monday and had no wait for a table or for food. Hours are a bit limited, and they close at 2 on the days they are open, so check the website before venturing there.
Up For Brunch
1520 Texas Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71103
(318) 703-2884