As with almost any occasion that takes place inside this historic crown jewel of downtown Spokane, guests at the Davenport Hotel's weekly Sunday Champagne Brunch may feel like they've been transported to another time, and another place.
Held inside one of the ornate, palace-like ballrooms, this Sunday mid-morning meal is an event that's been a special setting — or simply a treat, a break from one's weekend routine — for diners of all ages, from near and far. Incredibly popular during the holidays (including the upcoming spring trio of Easter, Mother's Day and Father's Day), and to celebrate other festive occasions and milestones, the decadent meal is so popular that reservations are highly recommended, if not necessary. If you've never had the opportunity to go, that's OK; the rest of this write-up should give you a decent idea of what you're missing, and why you should put it on your local culinary "bucket list."
Upon arrival, guests' eyes are often drawn, naturally, to several glorious milk chocolate fountains next to artful towers of fresh fruit. Unless chocolate and fruit is all you care about, don't overlook the main attraction, a buffet line feast fit for a queen. There, you'll find seafood (read: jumbo shrimp with cocktail sauce), salads, trays of finger food and cheeses, and a carved meat station with prime rib, turkey, ham and lamb.
Of course, it wouldn't be a proper brunch without a stem of Champagne or a mimosa, included in the meal price. For those looking to get a little wilder, a trip to the build-your-own Bloody Mary bar is another essential feature here.
If none of those items strikes your fancy, do not fear; there's something tasty for everyone, no matter your concept of brunch, including folks (like me) who feel that classic breakfast items are the nutritionary highlights of life. Made-to-order crepe and omelet stations suit the needs of these classic breakfast types, and remain a Davenport brunch guest favorite, says hotel marketing director Matt Jensen.
And while it's a bit more spendy than, say, a family trip to the nearby waffle house chain, this brunch's quality is unmatched. Served as an all-you-can-eat meal, no one will (or should) judge anyone for making a second, third or fourth trip back to the buffet line.
Large parties regularly partake in this weekly affair, but it's always in your group's best interest to make reservations ahead of your visit (call 789-6848 or book on opentable.com) so that any "hangry" people in the party get seated and started in the buffet line ASAP. Sunday Brunch at the Davenport is served from 10 am-1 pm, with the last seating at 12:45 pm.
2nd PLACE: The Yards Bruncheon; 3rd PLACE: Chaps; NORTH IDAHO'S BEST: Dockside, Coeur d'Alene
