This article is sponsored by Julia’s

You may have heard of Julia’s: Ridgewood’s quaint brunch spot and wine bar run by Crystal River Williams and Denise Plowman of Norma’s Corner Shoppe fame, with warm red walls and cute arched doorways. While Norma’s pays homage to Crystal’s grandmother, Julia’s honors Denise’s mother, whose family-focus and Mexican heritage can be felt in the aesthetics, the menu and the overall vibe of this essential neighborhood gathering place.

“She has a natural sense of community, loyalty and honor that is very special,” Crystal commented. Indeed the mismatched mirrors, vintage cabinets, and cleanest bathroom ever make it feel like you’re visiting mom.

This month, both the menu and the hours are expanding, with lunch hours each weekday and brunch being served up both Saturday and Sunday. I stopped by on a Sunday afternoon and was met by Crystal and her smiling staff. She whipped up a Fall Fizz for me, which is basically every dreamy thought you’ve ever had about autumn drizzled into a glass with a cap of champagne.

All brunch plates are $8 with $5 mimosas. Carnivores will want to try the spicy pork arepas topped with fried egg, which would satisfy the appetite of both the bona fide foodie and a local with a hangover. By all means, come here with your Sunday hangover–but don’t forget to come back in good spirits to fully appreciate the quality of this place.

Vegan customers will be pleased to know there are new menu options just for them. Particularly touted by Crystal, a NY state wheat seeded demi-baguette with chickpea salad is on the way, tossed with pickled mustard seeds, toasted pepitas and a fresh mint and parsley salad on the side.

For those who adore autumnal hues and a ton of flavor on their plate, there’s a golden and candy cane beet salad with rainbow micro greens and a parsley oil. Hungry yet?

Sandwich melts and new cheeses are also in the works. “Designing menus is my favorite part of having this business,” Crystal told me as I scarfed down my plate. “It’s like I get to play with food again!”

Are you in the neighborhood during the lunch hour and find yourself hungry? Julia’s is open for a delicious, healthy lunch–just browse their lunch menu for a salad (starts on $6) and a sandwich ($8).

Other things to look forward to? “Will, our partner who is in charge of our beer program, brewed an ancho chili and cocoa nib infused stout for our opening that I think perfectly captured what we were going for,” Crystal told me in an email, “He’s working on getting a new batch brewed for our anniversary in January.”

Julia’s: 818 Woodward Ave, Ridgewood. (917-909-1314). Now open Monday to Thursday, 12pm—12am; Friday & Saturday, 11am—2am; Sunday, 11am—12pm.