Seated comfortably in the dining cabin, starboard side, with ocean liner views of the picturesque Delaware waterfront, we recently enjoyed an amazing brunch on the legendary Moshulu. It needs no introduction; the historic vessel, an astoundingly beautiful tall ship, has been an anchored restaurant venue and landmark dining destination since 1975 at Penn’s Landing.

For many years, brunch was always a buffet affair. Until recently, they transitioned to an à la carte brunch menu complete with classic and creative brunch entrees and an option of bottomless champagne, Bloody Mary’s, and other standard brunch cocktails.

They also have an aptly-named cocktail called the “Weekend Warrior” which was a must for me to try. Made with Sweet Carolina Sweet Tea Vodka, Pallini Limoncello, mint, fresh lemon, honey, iced tea… it was a perfectly refreshing cocktail to kick off our brunch excursion aboard the Moshulu. It was “down the hatch” in no time!

From there, it was smooth sailing. We were gung ho to start eating and ready to get carried away on delicious adventure! Batten down the hatches, let’s dive in…

For our first course, we sampled the Smoked Salmon Plate ($12) with dill crema, caper berries, red onion, salmon caviar, bagel chips, and micro greens. This plate was stunning in its simplicity yet presented distinguishable flavor. A slightly different take on a traditional smoked salmon dish, this will surpass your expectations of the conventional bagels and lox staple.

We also tried the Shrimp & Crab Bloody Mary Cocktail ($13) with cucumber, avocado, and tortilla chips. While not a common brunch item, it totally works especially if you are a seafood lover. While I’m still not the biggest fan of shrimp, I adore crab meat especially chunky, jumbo lump crab meat. This is the highest-grade crab with the freshest flavor. This dish was light, yet delicious. Cucumbers, avocado, and just a touch of Bloody Mary cocktail sauce provided a crisp, yet tangy note.

After such a posh start, I was ready for another cocktail. A peach bellini was calling my name. Can never go wrong with a bellini at brunch. In this case, it felt classier drinking one on a boat! 🍹

One thing that sets the Moshulu Brunch apart from others is the complimentary coffee cake they bring out to you. So scrumptious. It served as a nice sweet interlude between our savory courses. I would have purchased a whole sheet pan of the stuff if they were selling it. Perhaps I should have asked? Next time! 😉

If you are a fan of eggs Benedict, you owe it to yourself to get this Crab Cake Eggs Benedict ($24) with creamed spinach, chive hollandaise, and roasted potatoes. It is, by far, the most expensive item on the menu, but it is totally worth it. The name is actually a bit misleading. You’re not going to find the usual breadcrumb-filled and mayonnaise-slathered cakes here. Oh no, they’re putting the really good stuff on this — lots and lots jumbo lump crab meat is under that creamy spinach, perfectly poached eggs, and luscious hollandaise! I’ll go as far as to say this is probably one of the best Benedict’s I’ve ever had!

Hubby opted for the “Cheese Steak Omelette” ($19) with braised short ribs, caramelized onions, mushrooms, truffle cheese, and roasted potatoes. I put cheese steak in parenthesis because it’s almost a crime to compare this to a Philly cheesesteak sandwich! The braised short ribs were so succulent and tender; combined with the onions and mushrooms, this was an umami bomb sealed in  a fluffy egg pillow!!

This omelette deserves another picture. This is Philadelphia best omelette as far as I’m concerned. Really!

I couldn’t help myself and I had to end on a sweet note. While the coffee cake did please me quite a bit, I felt compelled to try the Very Berry Bread Pudding ($8) with warm croissant pudding and fresh berries. So glad I got this. They have it on the “first course” section of the menu but it’s really a brunch dessert which is how I approached it. Served in a mini Mason jar, it’s quite charming and a simply sweet way to end a spectacular meal.

Last, but not least, I concluded our amazing brunch experience on the Moshulu with a glass of champagne. It felt it was the right thing to do. I raised my glass to the boat that has been offering Philadelphians, visitors, and tourists alike a unique and memorable dining and nightlife experience for nearly 43 years. A boat that has been in service for over 113 years. Here’s to many more years to come!

We didn’t mean to go overboard, but it was too easy to do with so many wonderfully delicious selections. So many reasons to come back and rediscover this Philly institution. If you do, tell them Philly Grub sent you.

FYI – “The Deck” the exciting nightlife space upstairs has been recently renovated and will be opening to the public on May 17th. It will feature signature cocktails, nibbles, and more. It is one of Philly hottest outdoor spots in the summer months! Check it out.

*Special thanks to Jaimi Blackburn of Fearless Restaurants for arranging our visit. Our opinions are our own.