Soft jazz hums, the sun filters through a café window, and the morning is serene-- but a mimosa’s sparkling bubbles splash a bright color to this scene, starting your day on the right note. Whether it’s clinking glasses with a partner, sipping with a few close friends, or just something to enjoy before the day’s adventures with the kids, a mimosa adds the perfect amount of sunny citrus to the relaxing mornings that deserve a little sparkle.

Invented in 1920s London, Ritz Hotel Barman Frank Meier created a beautiful blend of champagne (or sparkling white wine) and orange juice. The mimosa became popular in the United States in the 1960s, eventually earning its own day: “National Mimosa Day”, which is celebrated on May 16th.

The mimosa sparked inspiration among bartenders and drink-enthusiasts across the world to make different variations that we all know and love. For example, the Hawaiian Mimosa consists of a unique blend of pineapple juice, orange juice, cherry juice, rum, and champagne. The Megmosa is a similar type of cocktail, composed of champagne and grapefruit juice.

*Katy’s Cafe Sunrise Mimosa featuring orange juice, strawberry, and champagne*

Typically served in a wine glass or champagne flute, the brightly colored cocktail dances with brunch-time energy. Ellicottville has an abundance of locations to enjoy your own glass of liquid sunshine, including Katy’s Café right on Washington Street. Whether you desire something small (like a bagel) or a full breakfast (think omelet, breakfast wrap, or French toast with berries), Katy’s Café is the perfect brunch destination for individuals, couples, families, and friends.

*Ellicottville Bake Shop’s La Marca Prosecco Routin with Raspberry Syrup*

Rolling out an array of fresh-baked goods, Ellicottville Bake Shop serves both sweet and savory food items to satisfy whatever tooth you possess. Located on East Washington Street in the plaza next to Kwik Fill, they have a wide variety of drinks to be paired with their items. They offer freshly baked bread, bagles, pastries, muffins, cookies, and sandwiches to go with your drink of choice.

“Elevate your brunch experience with our exquisite selection of brunch beverages. Indulge in the effervescent charm of La Marca Prosecco Routin Raspberry Syrup, or savor the refreshing taste of Chandon Brut Splits served alongside fresh orange juice.”

May we suggest one a Bostock (a French almond brioche toast) or their signature Sticky Bun to pair with your brunch bevvie of choice. No matter what combination you go with, Ellicottville Bake Shop is the go-to spot to enjoy a quick bite before diving into the adventures of your day.

*Alpine Bistro’s Beverage Bar, nextdoor to their cafe*

Similar to Ellicottville Bake Shop, Alpine Bistro has a wide menu featuring many types of sandwiches, pastries, breakfast pizza (and other variations), waffles, and salads. They also provide a great selection of specialty coffee drinks to go with any ordered food item. The Dubai Pistachio Frappe is a creamy pistachio-chocolate blend with bold flavors and pairs well with the Hiker’s Grilled Cheese - bacon and egg smothered in gouda and smoked cheddar, topped with spinach, tomato and garlic aioli on homemade white toast.

If you’re heading to the Bistro closer to the lunch hour, peruse their beer and wine list - any option pairs well with their Prosciutto & Gouda Sandwich - 4oz. of sliced prosciutto and smoked Gouda topped with crisp spring mix, Roma tomatoes with garlic aioli and served on ciabatta bread. Located on Ellicottville’s main drag, this breakfast and lunch locale is fit for any vibe you and your crew bring.

With a flavorful breakfast or a freshly baked treat, there is something undeniably sunny about a morning flute filled with a little bubbly. By starting your morning with a bit of sparkle, the mimosa is a bright and customizable citrusy classic and a staple in brunch culture, bringing sunshine to tables around the world and right here in Ellicottville. There is no better drink to sip, savor, and toast to the day ahead.