Last Sunday, my best friend and I went to Aut Bar - the leading LGBT restaurant and bar in Ann Arbor. Known for providing support for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community, its doors are open to everyone, especially for Sunday brunch! 

The restaurant, owned by Martin Contreras and Keith Orr, used to be called La Casita de Lupe. It served an entirely Mexican menu. Now, the converted space is Aut Bar, and the owners decided to keep the Mexican flair for Sunday brunches. I had the Huevos con Chorizo: “eggs scrambled with spicy Mexican sausage and onions. Served with two tortillas, rice, and beans.” But, believe me, I had a problem deciding with such an extensive and delicious brunch menu. It was a double whammy for me: my favorite type of food is Mexican and my favorite meal of the day is brunch. A combination of the both was right up my alley. 

Located in Braun Court, right across from Kerrytown, Aut Bar offers happy hour every day from 4-6PM, in addition to “Tasting Tuesdays,” where all wine is 25% off, and free pool and beer specials every Wednesday. Aut Bar has several events and specials throughout the year! 

I’d recommend sitting outside under one of their umbrellas. The restaurant has music blasting outside, which may add excitement to your Sunday morning or (in my case) remind you of the crazy night before. Either way, it’s a nice and fun addition to the relaxing patio. The outdoor seating is dog-friendly, so beware if you don’t like dogs and leash up your pup if you have a four-legged friend of your own. 

The staff is friendly. The atmosphere is comfortable and fun. There’s a wide menu selection. The crowd couldn’t be nicer. It’s welcoming to all! The only downside is that it gets crowded for brunch, so you’ll probably have to wait for a table. In all honesty, I’d go as far as saying it’s the best brunch I’ve had in Ann Arbor.

Alexandra Foster