Brunch
May I say…I LOVE brunch! My husband would tell me that’s a “very strong affection” for something other than a person. But I do…love brunch.
It’s the best of both food worlds, in my opinion, breakfast and lunch. When we are on vacation I choose brunch or lunch over going out to dinner. Recently, we were in Scottsdale, Arizona with friends and went to the coolest brunch I’ve ever been to. Maple & Ash, I need not say anymore (but I will.) First of all, even walking up to the restaurant you knew it was going to be cool inside and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
Walking up to the front desk to check-in and the music hits you like holy cow! Journey was playing LOUD. We kind of looked at each other going, huh, interesting. Actually, I was wondering, oh dear, how will we get through this with this loud music. Spoiler alert, we had the best time! The best! The restaurant aesthetic is refined. It feels like you’re in Big’s apartment from the Sex and the City movie. The one he lives in before they buy the new fancy apartment. It’s sexy, dark, classy and huge! Very masculine without being macho. And has an amazing kitchen. I love a great kitchen…have you caught on to that yet?
We were seated, and the first thing we are served is a coffee, tequila drink. My apologies, I can’t remember exactly what was in it and I didn’t love it (not a coffee drinker) but everyone else did. With the music bumping and a large group of hot young women behind us living their best lives, we were off! The menu was fabulous. I had Alaskan King Crab Benedict. A good benedict is my favorite brunch food, delicious! But the “sides” for the table, were amazing. Warm beignets, maple glazed bacon, fire roasted filet mignon (ridiculous), breakfast potatoes, and seasonal scones. All so good!
The whole experience was awesome. The staff was fun, friendly and went out of their way to make the experience memorable. We even got an impromptu tour of the kitchen and met the Chef. I was in heaven. Chef Danny Grant is a two-Michelin-star chef…WHAT?!!, bonkers! He couldn’t have been nicer. All in all, BEST BRUNCH EVER! Can’t wait to go back and do dinner. Be sure and plan ahead during the season down there. This place is hopping, you can’t just walk up and get in. So, totally worth it!
…………………………………………………………………
Hosting a brunch is such a treat for me. This past weekend, I had the honor to do just that. A group of ladies and I had the pleasure of honoring a dear friend who passed unexpectedly this past winter. We are in a woman’s investment club together. It was a lovely time to remember and pay tribute an amazing friend who touched our lives so deeply. Thank you, Hannah, you are dearly missed.
I find it so relaxing to sit around a table and spend time with friends and loved ones. Serving food buffet style is perfect. Everyone can snack at their leisure. Brunch is easy to do buffet. So, next time you’re thinking of having a get together, try doing a brunch buffet.
THE MENU:
Two kinds of frittata’s: bacon, potato, and Beecher’s cheese; mushroom, arugula, and gruyere cheese.
Charcuterie Platter: several cheeses, salami, prosciutto, avocado, pickled onions, oven toasted crostini, crackers, fresh berries, pumpkin bread.
Beverage Bar: cold brew coffee, mimosa’s with fresh squeezed OJ, rose, and bubbly water.
This is just one idea. The possibilities are endless…enjoy!
