Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Brunch Anyone?

I have been a huge fan of breakfast since I was a child and call it what you may there is something about going out for Brunch or late breakfast that is very satisfying.
I paid a visit to an old-fashioned classic this past Sunday on Wilshire called the Pacific Dining Car.
How many of you are familiar with this throw back to the seventies or perhaps earlier where you are waited in hand and foot by older gentlemen in white coats and bow ties?
I discovered the place a few years ago when looking online for a classic steak dinner. We went for a delicious meal with the requisite baked potato and green salad as accompaniments. The service was gracious and professional and the food satisfying and well prepared.
Who knew they were also a standard Brunch destination for the older crowd of Santa Monica natives? We were told by friends who have lived here all their lives and were surprised to show up and find the place fairly crowded (including the bar I must add) at 11:30 am. on a Sunday morning.
The service is something to be noticed in this time of rushed and ill- trained staff that is the rule among the trendy new establishments that open everyday. I love service and this is the place to experience the old fashioned kind, where the waiters don’t introduce themselves but simply arrive and disappear just when needed and are consistently refilling your coffee bringing you new bread and making sure you are satisfied.
We ordered omelets that were perfectly cooked, moist and delicate filled with yummy items such as chevre, smoked salmon and fresh vegetables. The portions are on the large size so bring your appetite!
I have also visited the bar on two occasions for their happy hour and have enjoyed the well mixed cocktails and appetizers that are served gratis in the cocktail lounge. They have the best guacamole I have ever tasted in an establishment outside my own kitchen and it is served with homemade tortilla chips which I appreciate to no end.
I recommend trying the Pacific Dining Car if you would like a true restaurant experience without all the bells and whistles of the trendier places and enjoy a quiet more mature atmosphere while you dine.