A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg
It’s tough to improve upon the spectacular ocean and mountain views from the terrace at Belmond El Encanto, but the amazing Bottomless Bellini Brunch—available Sundays from 11 a.m.–2 p.m.—adds a delicious bubbly kick to what is already an embarrassment of riches. This brunch is a perfect way to treat that special someone to a meal they won’t forget.
The Bellini, a sparkling beverage of Prosecco and peach puree or nectar, was first created at Belmond El Encanto’s sister property Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice, Italy, and Chef Leo Andres Ayala does the tradition proud.
The brunch includes a nice assortment of locally-sourced dishes, starting with an array of appetizers served family style, including Ahi Tuna Salad, Chilled Prawns, Smoked Duck, Smoked Salmon, Marinated Berries and Charred Vegetable Salad. The meal is luxurious on its own, but its even more of a treat to have the dishes brought to you at the table, rather than having to serve yourself.
The feast seems to be never-ending as the Belllinis continue to flow and you choose from a tasty list of entree selections, including Brioche French Toast, Eggs Benedict, Steak and Eggs, Buttermilk Pancakes, Lobster Fritatta, Duck Confit Chilaquiles, Santa Barbara Seafood Cioppino, Roasted Salmon, Crispy Seared Branzino, Veal Scallopini, Roasted Jidori Chicken Breast, Seared Rare Ahi Tuna Sandwich or a Classic Cobb Salad. It’s hard to go wrong!
We hope you saved room for something sweet. Complementing the meal, guests are invited to The Wine Room where a gorgeous selection of house-made desserts from Pastry Chef Aaron Lesch awaits. Don’t worry … you can pick more than one!
The Bellini Brunch is $75 per adult and $35 per child (12 years and younger). Belmond El Encanto is located at 800 Alvarado Pl. For more information or reservations call 805/770-3530 or visit elencanto.com.
Cheers!
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When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”
Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 19, 2014.