Feb. 19--After British grocer and cafe Jolly Posh announced its closing of doors in October, fans might be wondering what's been in the works for the new, re-envisioned space. It reopened recently as Vivial, an intimate, cozy place for cheerful service and inventive cocktails. Now, that includes brunch.
What sticks from the Brit-inspired spot in the re-imagined space is the idea of comfort food -- and, they hope, a bustling brunch service. The menu offers an egg option, the Smoked Salmon Eggs, along with unique twists like the Sloppy Joseph ($14) -- a mix of braised short rib, beef chili, baked beans, smoked bacon and cheddar. It arrives on a toasted bun with cheese still melting over the meat. The green chili-braised short rib somehow stays balanced on the bun -- although some diners might prefer to eat it with silverware -- and the beans add a nice crunch. All this is paired with the zest from house-made pickles. Soft waffle fries with a small square of ketchup arrive on the side.
Make sure to look for it on the weekend -- it's served as a brunch item from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Pair it with one of the three featured brunch cocktails. We opted for the one with not vodka or prosecco, but gin (and yuzu juice, Cointreau and lemon juice): the Yuzu Me Please.
Vivial, 3755 N. Southport Ave., 773-312-3755.
