Mediterranean Brunch is a thing...a really great thing

Breakfast Poutine at Kashkaval Garden.

Up on 9th, nestled between 55th and 56th, sits a small quintessential tiny Manhattan restaurant, Kashkaval Garden. They don't have a boozy brunch all you can drink special, however they have brunch cocktails for $5 each, which I can still appreciate. Bloody Marys, mimosas and wine are all a part of the brunch cocktail deal.  They also feature wine from the tap by the glass or carafe.

The menu is Turkish with Mediterranean flare, and includes brunch items like a Turkish Scramble -- eggs scrambled with chorizo and kale, which comes with a side salad and you can add a meat skewer for a small add-on charge.  The Breakfast Poutine is another winner.  Red potatoes, gravy, pork belly, with a fried egg on top, also with a side salad.  I could huff it  

If the brunch dishes aren't your thing, the tapas will be.  Kashkaval has an amazing selection to choose from including items you would expect like hummus and tzatziki mixed with surprises like the red quinoa taboule with coriander and lemon and the roasted artichokes, cauliflower or Brussels sprouts.  The babaganoush  is delish and the tapenades are a must-try in both spinach and spicy kale.  All of the tapas are served cold with warm pita and they are very generous with the servings.

Another must-have dish is the Raclette.  They have put their own spin on the traditional cheese fondue dish from Switzerland by smothering roasted potatoes, pickles, French ham and bresaola with raclette. Really amazing.

Plan ahead with a reservation or be prepared to wait depending on the time of day.  It is like many of our city's best hangs -- long, narrow and tight.