Weekend Planner: Pop-up Brunch at TWO, Raised Begins Brunch and AIDS Fundraiser at Elixir

Pop-up Brunch at TWO

Considering how incredible their dinner menu is, you better believe brunch at TWO is not to be missed. Brunch isn’t a regular thing at the West Town restaurant, but rather a pop-up exclusive on June 12, so be sure not to miss this goodness. From 10:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., the Midwestern-inspired spot will serve up upgraded takes on breakfast classics courtesy of executive chef Kevin Cuddihee and pastry chef George Kovach. Items will include bacon brioche cinnamon rolls, lobster Benedict and hot chicken & waffles, plus a brunch cocktail menu. 

 

Brunch at Raised

In other brunch news, rooftop newcomer Raised has added Sunday brunch to its repertoire, so now you can enjoy morning fare and mimosas with a gorgeous view of downtown Chicago and the river. Curated by chef Daniel Perez, the menu includes items like bagel chips and lox with hard-boiled egg, chorizo hash with cotija cheese, beef tenderloin sliders with truffle cheese, and something called the Frassant, a pastry made with croissant dough, cinnamon, sugar, chocolate sauce and berry jam. To round out the eats, William Nykaza has implemented a “tool box” beverage program to serve up to four people with a variety of cocktail items for DIY Bloody Marys and mimosas. And for more sweets, try the peanut butter and jelly push-pops or burnt caramel ice cream sandwiches. Brunch is served on Sundays from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. 

The Ride for AIDS Fundraiser at Elixir

In non-brunch event news, Elixir Lounge in Lakeview is hosting a special fundraiser on June 11 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. to benefit The Ride for AIDS Chicago and Team to End AIDS. With a suggested donation of $10, attendees will get one free Altos Tequila cocktail and one free well drink ticket. There’s a raffle with prizes including a two-night stay at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, a basket of wine, and other goodies. 

- Matt Kirouac