Late spring and early summer are the perfect times to dine outside in Jacksonville. The humidity is still at bay, mosquitoes keep to a minimum and the weather is pure bliss. Whether you opt for an alfresco brunch on your patio or head to Valley Smoke, we’re here with delicious ideas for your next summer brunch spread. 

Mashed Avocado on Sourdough

Some call it trendy, we think it’s here to stay. Avocado toast is a year-round crowd pleaser and so easy to serve large groups. Here’s how to make enough for a party of four:

Ingredients:

4 avocados, sliced and smashed in a medium bowl

2 Roma tomatoes, diced

½ red onion, diced

½ cup crumbled feta

Kosher salt and pepper

Squeeze of fresh lemon

Loaf of freshly baked sourdough, cut in thick slices

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Mash the avocados and mix in the tomatoes and onion. Add the lemon, salt and pepper to taste. Lightly stir in half the feta, reserving the rest for topping. 

Meanwhile, add the sliced bread in one layer on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for five minutes (or until the top layer is crisp). Generously spread the avocado mash on each piece, and top with feta and some S&P. 

Baked Eggs with Seasonal Herbs

This egg recipe is adapted from Ina Garten and unlike anything you’ve ever tried. Take our word for it! One of the top perks is that you likely have all the ingredients in your pantry already. Pair this dish with the avocado toast for a match made in heaven. 

Ingredients:

¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan 

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced

½ tsp fresh thyme, minced

½ tsp rosemary, minced

12 large eggs

2 tbsp salted butter

Zest of half a lemon

¼ cup heavy whipping cream

Kosher salt and pepper

Preheat the broiler. Combine the first five ingredients and set aside. Place the butter and cream in a small casserole dish or glass pie dish. Place under the broiler for a couple of minutes, until bubbly. 

Crack the eggs into the dish and top with the herb mixture, salt and pepper. Broil for another five minutes, until the whites are cooked. Remove from oven and set aside for a minute while the eggs continue to cook. 

Visit Valley Smoke for All of Your Brunch Favorites

It just doesn’t get better than breakfast with a view. When you’re ready to venture outside your home for a meal, Valley Smoke is here. Opt for one (or two!) of our seasonal cocktails, a few brunch or lunch entrees and just relax. 

Call ahead to make a reservation or place a takeout order. We can’t wait to see you!