PRINTBuffet-style meals make Sunday mornings an adventure
Embrace the lazy sunday, and check out Vox’s picks for scrumptious brunches.
Bobby Watson
The Rome on Ninth Street offers a delicious array of classic breakfast and lunch treats every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
January 17, 2013 | 12:00 a.m. CST
Bleu
Where: 811 E. Walnut St.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Price: Adults, $15.95; kids, $9.95
Call: 442-8220
Online: bleucolumbia.com
The shiny, polished silverware reflects off of the sleek black countertops. The Sunday brunch buffet at Bleu is for people in Columbia who want to dine in style. It definitely isn’t a country buffet atmosphere. Customers choose from high-end breakfast and lunch items such as eggs Benedict and spice duck hash. Typical breakfast foods such as sausage and bacon are also available. Burgers and sandwiches provide options
for people who are interested in lunch foods rather than breakfast. A distinctive feature is Bleu’s custom pancake and French toast station, where guests can create their own pancakes from a selection of ingredients or try a seasonal flavor such as pumpkin. Enjoy a helping of desserts prepared by the pastry chef, or sip on a mimosa while devouring treats from the diverse menu.
The Heidelberg
Where: 410 S. Ninth St.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Price: Adults, $7.99; kids 12 and under, $4.99; kids 3 and under, free
Call: 449-6927
Online: theheidelberg.com
The Heidelberg started serving brunch in the ’80s, and it has been popular ever since.Traditional brunch items such as scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, muffins, fresh fruit and pancakes are available. However, manager Rusty Walls suggests trying the omelet station. With all kinds of garnishes and toppings including tomatoes, cheese and more, creating a custom omelet is easy. Lunch items such as fried chicken wings, BBQ pulled pork and vegetables are usually served closer to the lunch hour.
The Rome
Where: 114 S. Ninth St.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Price: Adults, $14.95; kids, $8.95; kids 5 and under, free
Call: 876-2703
Online: dinerome.com
The Rome is the latest addition to the brunch buffet scene in Columbia, and its business has steadily climbed since the grand opening, which is a great motivator for executive chef Steve Scherrer. He usually goes without sleep Saturday night to make sure everything is fresh and ready for Sunday morning. Staples such as sausage, eggs and bacon are always available, and the staff has been working hard to add an Italian twist to the menu. Some items such as baby crêpes made with basil and ricotta cheese rather than cream cheese and honey show off the Italian flair.
Scherrer says that he sees many returning customers from his hideout in the kitchen. Gluten-free options such as frittatas are a big reason why. Must-try items are the desserts, including tiramisu, cheesecake and cannolis. The restaurant also offers drink specials including bloody Marys, Bellinis, screwdrivers and mimosas.
