There’s a New Brunch in Town
It’s been a long while since I’ve taken the time to enjoy a leisurely Sunday meal. But seeing Talisker on Main’s advertisements for their new brunch got me out of weekend yard work mode, into a sundress, and onto Main Street last weekend for an absolutely delightful brunch experience. Talisker on Main is the private club company’s outreach to the public. Here, any of us can enjoy the wonderful cuisine that is served to its members at Tuhaye, Empire Pass and Red Cloud.
The historic building at 515 Main was once the famous Star Meat and Grocery, which served Parkites from the 1920s to 1950s. The antique tin ceilings still stand, as well as the turn-of-the-century vibe, but with some comfortable updates, like stately leather chairs and banquettes. Throw in some shabby chic like the vintage chandelier that hangs over the server’s stand just outside the exhibition kitchen, black and white tiles, a gleaming kitchen and the all-glass store front that allows diners to watch the Main Street passersby, and you have a winning combination. With seating for just 43, TOM provides a really nice intimate atmosphere.
My husband and I were seated in the wine room - my favorite room in the restaurant because it is elegant, cozy and romantic. The only problem is that once you sink into the plush easy chairs at the tables, you may never get out and get on with your day. They are just too comfortable! Our server, Leon, was wonderfully professional and attentive and didn’t miss a thing to make our morning enjoyable, yet was refreshingly down to earth and relaxed. The whole vibe at TOM was relaxed. Eric Clapton unplugged was playing softly in the background, the couple sitting at the table next to us happened to be the parents of the sous chef, who came out periodically to chat, and other satisfied diners stopped briefly to socialize on their way to the outside patio.
We started our meal with coffee served in gorgeous white cups on pewter plates (loved that – so elegant!) and freshly baked croissants served with Gold Creek Farm (from Woodland) butter and housemade strawberry jam. Yum! Next, one of TOM’s à la carte sides, the incredible, magical Brussels Sprouts ($6), which I’d had at dinner before and wanted to try again. If you’ve ever doubted that you could love these miniature cabbage-like vegetables, give these a try. Served chopped, and tossed with house-cured Tuhaye bacon, baby orange sections, high desert goji berries, and sautéed in sherry vinaigrette, this is one of the most delightful “salads” I’ve ever had. Other popular “sides” are the Lobster Hush Puppies ($7), House-Made Bacon or Sausage ($5) and Honey Butter Biscuits ($3). For entrées, we ordered the Spring Pea Hash ($18) – the best piece of corned beef hash we’ve ever tasted (from Provo’s Pleasant Creek Farms), with baby peas, potato hash, eggs and young garlic salsa verde. I’ve never really been a huge corned beef fan – eat it once a year on St. Patty’s Day - but my world is different now. This dish is stellar. Don’t miss it. We also greatly enjoyed the delicious Frittata ($14), with morels, spring onions and garlic, served in a piping hot cast iron dish with baby lettuces on the side. It felt very francais. Delicious! (Especially accompanied by a glass of bubbly.) Our neighbors at the table next door raved about the Un-Stuffed French Toast ($18), made with brioche bread pudding, pear confit, fennel and basil. It sounded like a strange combination at first, but apparently it is a not-to-be-missed winner.
Check it out! Then wander down to the Park Silly Sunday Market – it makes for quite an enjoyable Sunday excursion.
TOM serves brunch Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 – 10 p.m. 435-658-5479.
Email
Print
Feed
Kristen Gould Case is editor of Park City Magazine and a freelance writer who publishes nationally. Weaned on the blue ice slopes of New England, she moved to Park City 25 years ago and hasn't looked back.
Your comment may be edited for brevity and foul language.