Our second installation of “What I Wore to Dinner” is here and this time, we’re off to brunch! This week, some friends and I headed to El Mercado Modern Cuisine in Santa Ana for a fresh take on Mexican food. It’s located near the downtown area, near tons of adorable shops and cafes. If the rain hadn’t been threatening to ruin our good time, a seat outside would have been preferred!

What I Wore

I had a new Gwynnie Bee subscription box that had arrived this week, so I busted it out and used it to inspire my brunch look! A python printed chiffon dress with statement sleeves and an uneven hemline arrived, and was the perfect weight to take to brunch on a chilly day that was threatening rain. I paired it with some black tights and booties for warmth. A black cross body bag and rose gold Monica Vinader jewelry completed the look. 

What I Ate

We found El Mercado with a quick google search of where to have brunch in Orange County. With that being said, french toast and pancakes are not typically found on your standard Mexican brunch menu, but they were the star of the show for us. The huevos rancheros, though a popular dish, was not particularly extraordinary. We did love the crispy and tangy brussels sprouts that started off our meal, but we were bummed to learn that by 11:30am, they were already out of the carnitas. The bottomless hermosas (hibiscus mimosas) and mimosas were a huge selling point for us, and the service was attentive, even though the wait time for food was a little slow. 

The Verdict

Overall, it could have been just about any other brunch place in any other city. It was a fine spot for a group meeting for bottomless mimosas, but I think next time we’ll stick to getting our food recommendations from trusted foodie friends instead. My outfit, however, was fire. 

Be sure to check out our previous review of the Recess Room.