Growing up in New Orleans, one of my favorite treats was going to Commander's Palace for Sunday Jazz Brunch. We'd get dressed up, head to the Garden District, and I'd pour over the menu, knowing full well that despite an array of available breakfast items, I'd be ordering gumbo, trout (of some sort) and of course, their world famous bread pudding soufflé. At some point I also "graduated" from milk to Milk Punch (made with brandy and vanilla), a New Orleans classic.
Brunch at Commander's was a family affair for special occasions; and though I rarely get back to New Orleans now, Commander's Palace is the place I most want to go given the opportunity.
This leads me to my write-up of Sunday Brunch at The Café at The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead. I didn't grow up in Atlanta, but if I had, I imagine that this would have been our chosen spot for those special occasions. Brunch at the Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead is laced with history. Just walking into the hotel, you know you're someplace special, and that you are there for a full dining experience - by no means just a meal.
I'm not a food critic (I've said this before), so I'm not going to get into the specifics of the caviar served, or the ingredients included in the simply beautiful antipasti and salad bars. But I will tell you this - you'll be hard-pressed to find a more luxurious, delicious brunch in Atlanta.
There is no menu to ponder over for this brunch. Instead, you're going to have to take your time going station to station, and be sure to take it all in. Expect to make several trips, however, because one plate simply isn't going to be enough. Not to mention, there's so much variety, you might just want to sample each station separately. Take your time - enjoy the live pianist and relax....
Sunday Brunch at The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead features more than 50 different selections - treats for all tastes and appetites. There are five chefs involved in creating this amazing production!
Selections include:
• Chilled seafood including crab claws, oysters, shrimp and mussels; smoked fish; three types of caviar with traditional garnishes; and sushi
• Local and imported cheeses and charcuterie; antipasti, cold salads and fresh summer fruit
• Traditional breakfast favorites, and omelets made-to-order at a chef’s station
• Chef carving stations with roasted meats and fish, vegetables and pasta
• Artisan jams and jellies, freshly-baked breads, muffins, croissants and bagels
• The pastry chef’s unrivaled summer selection may include pies, cobblers, tarts, cakes, pastries, cookies and candies
New in August is the Bubble Bar... Guests may choose lively sparkling wines from Italy and France, Rotari Brut, or Louis Perdrier Blanc de Blanc. Then select from Marie Brizzard Crème de Cassis, house-made bitters, fresh fruit purees and assorted berry, fruit and citrus, to create a fresh, hand-crafted Bellini, Kir or classic Champagne cocktail. (And while I don't recommend multiple visits to the Bubble Bar at brunch, I will note that you are not limited to only one drink.) I thoroughly enjoyed my Bellini!
Back to the food, I'd tell you a little more about what I ate except, well, I think I tried everything. Maybe not 50 items, but possibly close to that! I even enjoyed the caviar, which surprised me. I thought I was finished when I realized I had not even seen the traditional breakfast station (hello bacon!), salads, antipasti and baked breads. Another trip (and a cup of coffee!) was in order. I can't ever get enough crispy bacon or eggs benedict! I also enjoyed some delicious blintzes before realizing I had not even approached the fabulous dessert table. So, I had a taste of bread pudding, but then simply had to stop.
Sunday Brunch is $59 per person (not including tax or gratuity). The Bubble Bar is an additional $15. Reservations are required. Valet Parking is complementary.
So here's a suggestion for you....instead of date night, why not invest in a date "day" with someone special? Enjoy a leisurely brunch at the Ritz Carlton, Buckhead, and then do as I did - go home, and take a nap! Or gather a group of friends for a birthday or special occasion. And if your children are older (or more patient then mine), make it a family affair. Whatever the case, just remember that when you're looking for that special place for Sunday brunch in Atlanta, this is it.
A special thank you to Sandra Ryder for including me in her "blogger brunch" recently at The Ritz Carlton, Buckhead. It was truly a special treat! This weekend, I'm going to see the Ritz from the kids' perspectives: it's Jack's 4th birthday, and we'll be spending the night on Friday to experience the Family Getaway Package. This includes, among other things, a "Dive In Movie" at the indoor pool, a scavenger hunt, popcorn and ice cream. We can't wait!
