Last Sunday, Lauren and I were directed to visit Pheasant Run Resort and try the Sunday Brunch.  Why? I asked.  “Because I want you to see that all brunch buffets are definitely not the same.”  My boss had described for me of the prowess of Chef Josef Yurisich and the quite the impressive job he had done with the recent Sonoma-Cutrer Winemakers Dinner at the resort.  Having already seen – and tasted – that all resort food is not the same (see my Harvest review), I decided that I was definitely up for a Sunday brunch at Pheasant Run.

Lauren and I arrived at about 9:30 am to a packed parking lot.  I learned that the resort had just kicked off their official holiday season and the place was loaded with people taking advantage of some special packages.  But either they were not staying for brunch or they all had a bit too much of the party on the previous evening, because when we arrived at the Atrium (toward the rear of the resort, with a great view of the Golf Course), there were very few people present; that part I really liked. 

There was a trio – bass, lead guitar and sax – playing Christmas favorites and literally surrounded by enough food to feed a small army, or perhaps the entire Bears football team… and I am not kidding.  And unless you would like me to use the next two pages listing all of the food choices, suffice it to say that if one was unable to find some particular favorite, something major would be really wrong.  There were hors d’oeuvres aplenty, tons of various salads, cheeses galore, omelets and eggs, a complete breakfast station, roasted meats, salmon (three kinds), shrimp, numerous styles of rice and potatoes and desserts fit for kings and queens.  All of this wonderful food plated and presented in exquisite fashion, almost too pretty to disturb. View sample menu.

But disturb it we did – a number of times.  I admit that I was rather gluttonous, but everything was so fresh and tasted so good, I simply couldn’t help myself.  All this and champagne too!  I hadn’t realized that the affair was a champagne brunch, but the when the waiter discovered that I wanted neither coffee nor tea, he offered a bit of the bubbly.  What could I say?  As we ate, we noticed that the music was just the right type and volume – as background music should be – and conversation was easily accomplished without speaking loudly.  There were about 10 gazillion poinsettias in the room, including one on every table.  The setup time alone must have been incredible; everything was so festive.  Santa was there too and a few of his elf helpers.

After about an hour or so of non-stop eating, Lauren told me it was time to put down my fork.  I could have continued but someone would have had to roll me out the door.  Apparently another of my personal myths had been blown away; there was a Sunday brunch worth attending!  As we finished our desserts, I noticed that more people were arriving.  Many were dressed as if the meal was served in their own private soup kitchen: raggedy jeans, baseball caps, t-shirts, etc.  I never cease to be amazed.  No couth.  No personal pride.  Oh, well. 

It had been a marvelous brunch and a marvelous way to begin a Sunday.  I thought perhaps the price ($34.95) to be a tad on the high side, but I believe that part of the cost involved the holiday timing.  And for what was available – and what I ate – it was a very good deal and worth the price of admission.  The deal was made way better, by the way, because once again Lauren had discovered a Restaurant.com coupon that trimmed the cost of the brunch substantially.

Thanks boss, for “recommending” that I try Pheasant Run for the Sunday brunch.  It was a meal I shall not soon forget.  May I offer the resort four and a half Zins for a superlative and festive feast?  I believe I shall.  Go out and enjoy a tremendous brunch… and have a Merry Christmas!

Your Table is Waiting...