Weekends at Swan are for amateurs, as evidenced by the tourist-clogged line stretching far down the block. But come on a weekday, early if you can, and you'll be rewarded with a counter seat, a cold Anchor Steam and one of the most magnificent spreads of seafood around. Oysters are a must, as is the crab butter and fresh, still-squirming sea urchin (if available).

The brunch against which all other San Francisco brunches are measured is here at Brenda's French Soul Food. And you're smart enough to come on a weekday, when the line isn't four chalkboard columns long. Take a seat in the charming, upscale southern diner and immediately order a flight of their four plate-sized beignets (plain, chocolate, apple and crawfish). From there, it's up to you. We just wanted to make sure you started things right.

The weekend brunch wait at this Outer Sunset staple is ridiculous. But Monday through Friday, you'll find egg dishes, baked goods and the excellent grilled cheese on Mondays. Grab a seat outside, take in the reclaimed driftwood mastery and dig in to fresh donuts, spiked cider and heartier dishes like an open-faced meatlaof sandwich. Don't forget to get a loaf (or three) of their fresh baked bread to-go.

Avoid the insanely long waits for weekend brunches at Plow by coming in on a weekday instead. We won't tell you called in sick. This Potrero Hill mainstay serves up daily breakfast items from housemade cinnamon rolls to the eponymous the Plow, which comes with two eggs, your choice of housemade pork sausage patties, Nueske's bacon, or chicken apple sausage, plus two lemon ricotta pancakes and plow potatoes. Best sick day ever.

The problem with bottomless mimosa brunches is that they all tend to fall on the weekends. Luckily, Kitchen Story is here seven days a week for all your questionable imbibing choices. Even better, their brunch is delicious and stacked with items like crab benedict and Billionaire's Bacon.