Popular Carrollwood Eatery Changes Name

Despite a recent name change, a popular local eatery will remain a staple in Carrollwood.

Brunchies, formerly known as J. Christopher’s, changed its name - and its signage - about two weeks ago. J. Christopher’s was part of a chain poised to sell franchises.

“We made the decision that we wanted to stay independent and separate,” said Chris Garda, one of two managers on a staff of 22.

For the past seven years, the restaurant at 14366 N. Dale Mabry Highway has attracted a loyal crowd. While the name has changed, the look, feel and menu have remained consistent with what patrons expect. 

“It really is the kind of neighborhood place where we know our customers, and we wanted it to stay that way," said Garda.

The name "Brunchies" was selected because it was self-explanatory, according to Garda. Since the derivation of the word brunch is a mix between breakfast and lunch, the name was an easy choice, Garda said.

Open from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. daily, the restaurant offers breakfast, brunch and lunch items.

Born and raised in Carrollwood, he seems to have a perpetual smile on his face. The FSU graduate said he’s grateful to live near work and at a place that is thriving.

“We have increased business every year that we’ve been here, and that makes us unusual in Florida," said Garda. “It’one of the reasons I wanted to work here.” 

The 4,500-square-foot restaurant, is known for its bright melon-colored walls, light oak-colored tables, cheery art, friendly service and extensive menu.

“You can get heart-healthy food, salmon or steak," Garda said.  “And, we make a great Waldorf salad, which you can have on a sandwich, a plate or in a wrap.”

Selections are varied, and portions of the menu are diet-compatible and approved by local weight loss physician Jay Garcia.

“We have something basically for everyone - including vegetarians,"  said Garda.  

Patrons concur.

Chadwick Hannah, a regular customer who lives in Land O’Lakes, offered rave reviews for the pancakes. 

“It’s my favorite breakfast place," he said. "It just seems like the food is more healthy, too.”

Others point to the quality and the prices.

“They have good prices already and a few recession-proof specials,“ said Kyle Shepher, who moved to Pinellas County last year, but has  breakfast several times a month at the Carrollwood eatery.

"I always know I’ll get a good meal, and it will be filling, “ he said.

As regulars file in, the place is bustling. That's true seven days a week, and especially between 8:30 a.m. until 10 a.m. Garda thanks his loyal patrons for that.

“We recognize almost all our patrons and they know us,” Garda said. “It’s a loyal group, and we really appreciate that.”

In addition to counters and booths flanking the main dining area, two rooms are available for group reservations. Currently, Garda says baby and wedding showers have been popular.

He easily ticked off a list of professional and networking groups that also meet regularly at the restaurant. They include the Carrollwood Kiwanis Club  and the Carrollwood Area Business Association (CABA). The latter even has its own sign hanging above the entrance to one room. 

“It’s a friendly place,” said Maria Patterson, Executive Director of CABA.  “The owner, Bill Kranich, is a longtime CABA advocate. They serve great food at great prices. It’s like your local neighborhood eatery. You’re sure to run into someone you know there.”

Recently, groups have booked seminars. The restaurant offers screens for movies and presentations and will also consider booking events after regular business hours. What’s lesser known is that they will cater functions outside the restaurant, too.

Said Garda: “We’re local, we’re independent, and we like making our customers happy."

Brunchies, 14366 North Dale Mabry Highway Highway, is open from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m.