Encina from the mind of chef Matt Balke is making waves with its exceptional brunch offerings that promise to transform your weekend mornings into a culinary adventure. The menu is a vibrant celebration of flavors, featuring a selection of dishes that cater to a range of tastes and preferences. Enina is located in the former digs of Bolsa in Oak Cliff.
Encina is a culinary gem that stands out for its innovative approach to classic comfort foods, blending bold flavors with a touch of sophistication. This vibrant eatery offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where diners can savor a diverse menu of dishes that range from inventive brunch options to delectable dinner fare. With a commitment to quality ingredients and creative culinary techniques, Encina delivers a dining experience that’s both refined and approachable.
The restaurant’s humble decor and friendly service create a welcoming environment, making it the perfect spot for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Whether you’re indulging in their unique brunch offerings or anticipating their exciting dinner menu, Encina promises a memorable and satisfying culinary journey.
One standout item for brunch is the Montreal Long Haul, a hearty dish that brings together duck leg confit, hash browns, a blue corn butterscotch pancake, and scrambled eggs. This creation is a symphony of textures and flavors, with the succulent duck leg confit offering a rich, savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the butterscotch pancake. The hash browns add a crispy, comforting element, while the scrambled eggs round out the dish with their fluffy, creamy texture. It’s a plate that embodies both indulgence and sophistication, perfect for those who want to start their day with a culinary flourish.
For those craving a twist on traditional tacos, the Goat Guisada Tacos are a must-try. These tacos feature a deliciously spiced goat guisada topped with Fresno chile slaw, which adds a vibrant kick and crunch. The cheesy Oak Cliff tortillas provide a delightful, gooey backdrop, while avocado and scrambled eggs introduce creamy, rich elements to the mix. Each bite is a fusion of bold flavors and textures, creating a taco experience that’s both unique and satisfying.
Another brunch highlight at Encina is the Blue Corn Pancakes. These pancakes are a treat for the senses, with their blue corn base offering a subtly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet and salty notes of butterscotch, salted butter, and cajeta. The addition of bacon gives these pancakes a savory twist, making them a versatile option that can easily transition from breakfast to brunch.
If you’re looking for something a bit more unconventional, the Breakfast Flatbread is an excellent choice. This dish features a crispy flatbread topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella, bacon, eggs, green chiles, and fresh basil. The combination of flavors—from the tangy marinara and gooey mozzarella to the crispy bacon and zesty green chiles—creates a flatbread that’s both flavorful and comforting. The addition of eggs makes it a perfect brunch option, balancing the savory elements with a satisfying, protein-rich finish.
Encina’s brunch menu is a feast for the senses, with each dish thoughtfully crafted to deliver both comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty plate like the Montreal Long Haul, flavorful tacos, indulgent pancakes, or a unique breakfast flatbread, Encina has something to satisfy every palate.
While brunch at Encina is certainly a highlight, the restaurant also offers an enticing dinner menu that we’ll be exploring in a future article. Stay tuned for more details on what the dinner service has in store, as Encina continues to impress with its innovative and delectable offerings.
