The Divine Dish

Brunch at Navio, Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay

Posted on Aug 23, 2012 under Archives | 1 Comment

I recently traveled to Half Moon Bay to the lovely Ritz Carlton for a few days to enjoy the resort, the city of Half Moon Bay and several of the surrounding farms.  Part of our press trip included attending the hotel’s famous brunch on Sunday morning.  Headed by Executive Chef Xavier Solomon, the brunch includes over 200 items in a spectacular setting at the Navio restaurant overlooking the massive Pacific Ocean.

Much more than an average brunch featuring traditional breakfast items (but Eggs Benedict, sausages, bacon, scrambled eggs, pancakes and waffles are also included), the brunch features sushi/sashimi, an extensive cheese selection, raw bar, dim sum, salad area, carving area, select single plated items, pastries/bread, and desserts.  Because Chef Solomon set up each station with plenty of room for visitors to view and select items, although most seatings are completely booked there are no waiting lines except at the raw bar which was the most popular section during my brunch.  This was the best brunch I have attended,  for the quality of service, setup, and exceptional plating.  Here is what you can enjoy at the brunch.

I started off with the lovely sushi and sashimi platters and was impressed by the freshness and variety.

I tried a little of everything…

The raw bar was very popular and my favorite of the display areas.  It included three types of caviar and toppings, raw oysters, clams and crab claws and a huge bowl of shrimp.

The brunch also includes a variety of single serving items.

My second plate:

The charcutier and salad section was also extensive.

The brunch also featured a carving station with lamb and prime rib.

I headed for the cheese display before sampling any dessert.

I sampled a little of each cheese…

Next came desserts

The dessert section also had a big truffle display

Here is my dessert plate

If you are in the Bay area the brunch at Navio is definitely a must.  Located at Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay, One Miramontes Point Road, 650/712-7040 for reservations.