One night, I discovered a hidden world of beauty in downtown Cincinnati: the Hilton Netherland Plaza. My friend Doris declared it to have the “best brunch in town”, and given the exquisite setting of the historic hotel, it seemed likely to be quite the experience. Making a trip to Sunday brunch quickly jumped to the top of my Bucket List, and I recently had the chance to happily cross it off. Was it delicious, decadent and everything I expected? Oh. Yes!
Of course, it wouldn’t be Sunday brunch without a sparkling mimosa! Waiters floated around the grand Orchid’s restaurant with champagne flutes filled to the brim and topped off with a raspberry. The hostess took us to the best seat in the house, a table for two overlooking the vast brunch buffet that features everything from a Bloody Mary bar to a seafood station. Gazing out on the scene, we sipped our mimosas while Instagraming and watching guests fill their plates.
The food was incredible, and overwhelming. From homemade breakfast pastries to an assortment of cheeses, to an omelette bar, eggs benedict, seafood, pasta dishes, salads and more. The menu featured a full feast of options to satisfy whatever our hearts desired.
On my first trip, I loaded my plate with fresh, ripe, and flavorful fruit, a Belgian waffle topped with mixed berries, gorgonzola cheese and a delicious cranberry walnut bread. On the side, I enjoyed a fresh mozzarella, roasted red pepper and tomato salad..marinated in fresh herbs.
As vegetarians, Doris and I both walked past breakfast favorites like bacon and sausage, but those of course were available as well.
Of course, I couldn’t miss a trip to the omelette station, where a chef whipped me up an omelet filled with fresh vegetables and cheese. On the side, I enjoyed the DELICIOUS redskin and herb breakfast potatoes, some Asian salad and, of course, more gorgonzola…because, standards 😉
Was there dessert, you ask?
OH YES, there was dessert!
An array of indulgent goodies greeted us with each trip down the brunch line, beckoning us to make a mandatory trip at the end of the meal. We gazed out on a sea of options, to satisfy even the biggest of sweet tooths. From my absolute favorite Tiramasu, to berry cobbler, tartes, carrot cake, chocolate mousse and more. It felt criminal to be in the presence of so much deliciousness! Then again, sometimes you just have to dive right in and treat yourself…twice.
Needless to say, The Hilton Netherland Plaza definitely outdoes itself with its luxurious art-deco design and Orchid’s Sunday brunch is a must-try indulgent experience for anyone in Cincinnati. Surrounded by golden ceilings and grand chandeliers, it’s hard not to feel a bit like Serena Van Der Woodsen herself in a very Gossip Girl, upper East side moment. Probably the only downside to the whole thing was the absence of Chuck Bass roaming the halls.
With or without Nate Archibald though, we all deserve a special treat now and then. Whether for a special occasion, or any random Sunday – I highly suggest you visit the Netherland Plaza and Orchid’s brunch if ever in the neighborhood. It’s a true experience anyone with appreciation for dining and grandiose historic hotels will enjoy.
Seriously, I’m ready to go back already. #FoodGoals
Where’s your favorite Brunch spot?
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You look beautiful for starters but my gosh that food looks incredible and the interior, this is somewhere I really want to go! xxx
YUM!! This looks delicious, and very Gossip Girl-esque. You should go to their holiday tea! It’s really nice, and they usually have really nice live music!