Brunch Is Self-Care: A Love Letter to the Rich Aunties

They call us the “rich aunties” now. 

You know the ones—the women who always pick the spot, know the waiter’s name, order the champagne before the coffee, and leave brunch with stories that feel like treasure.

Last weekend at Earl’s Kitchen + Bar, I was reminded again: brunch is more than a meal. It’s a ritual. A pause. A declaration that we’re worthy of slow mornings, good food, and even better company.

The history of brunch dates back to the 19th century—an indulgent late-morning feast born in England, then carried into American culture where it became a social staple by the 1930s. Once reserved for the leisurely elite, brunch has evolved into something more layered: it’s a space where women gather, recharge, and connect.

For those of us in our Encore Era, brunch has become a kind of self-care. Between careers, family responsibilities, and reinvention, it’s where we exhale. It’s where laughter stretches longer than the mimosas, where girlfriends remind us who we are, and where joy becomes a practice.

Here’s what I’ve learned sipping bellinis at long tables with women I love: self-care isn’t always a solo bubble bath. Sometimes, it’s communal. Sometimes, it’s showing up for pancakes and prosecco with your friends because your soul needs to be fed just as much as your body.

So to my fellow rich aunties, I say: keep making the reservation. Keep ordering the extra round of fries. Keep taking photos at the table, because these moments are the memories.

And because Miami is filled with places that make brunch a true experience, here are a few more spots on our list to try next:

• Casadonna’s Brunch on the Bay – chic coastal vibes with a view that demands champagne.

• Amara at Paraiso – where Latin flavors meet Biscayne Bay sunsets.

• The Deck at Island Gardens – luxury on the water, complete with skyline views.

• Baia Beach Club – Mediterranean-inspired brunch with South Beach flair.

• Jaya at The Setai – a global menu in a courtyard that feels like an oasis.

Which one would you try first? Or better yet—which hidden gem should we add to our list?

Because brunch isn’t just food. It’s a lifestyle. A love language. And yes—it’s self-care.