A Destination-Worthy, Italian-Inflected Brunch at Maestoso in Hillcrest

The Majestic Pancakes are the perfect example of Chef Marco’s imaginative bill of fare, which blends traditional flavors with contemporary plating.

The aptly named dish has berries in every bite. First, dehydrated blueberries are blended into the batter. Next, the short stack of pancakes is smothered with berry “ragu” made with locally sourced blueberries and blackberries and topped with an avalanche of macerated strawberries and whipped cream. Majestic, indeed.

Pinsa is always a wise choice at Maestoso, mainly because it’s delicious, but also because you won’t find it anywhere else in the city.

The oblong-shaped Roman pizza variation is crafted from rice and wheat flour dough that proofs for 100 hours before baking up crisp and crunchy on the top and bottom. During brunch, try the Breakfast Pinsa, Chef Marco’s take on carbonara, which comes laden with crispy guanciale, fragrant pecorino cheese, and soft eggs.

For guests seeking a more balanced meal, the Blooming Salad alla Romana is a fresh and healthy choice made with bibb lettuce, marinated artichokes, crispy prosciutto, and pinsa croutons lightly drizzled with housemade Caesar dressing. It’s as beautiful to look at as it is fun to eat.

While dining, be on the lookout for the passaggi cart that periodically rolls out of the kitchen stocked with enticing small plates like sun-dried tomato deviled eggs and Le Bombette filled pastries.