il Casale Cucina Italiana in Belmont is a warm, welcoming space. The dining room is often filled with regulars from around town, the occasional Top Chef film crew, and those who have heard how good the food is. I am a fan of dinner at il Casale and have been in for special occasions and the occasional dinner out with friends. I was recently invited to see what the il Casale brunch was all about.
Chef Dante de Magistris and his brothers Filippo and Damian (who he co-owns the restaurants with) launched Sunday Brunch in Belmont this past November. I don’t usually think Italian when I think brunch, but it turns out that making exceptional food doesn’t just stop at pasta and Italian classics here. Brunch is held every Sunday from 11:30 am – 2:30 p.m. and whether you want pancakes or Bolognese they are both on the menu.
Go with the family, or enjoy a mom’s brunch out. While the kids are in swimming lessons, at open gym, or at grandma’s house, sneak off to enjoy a romantic brunch for two. After you put in your order, enjoy the rich coffee, tea or a cocktail with a complimentary sweet treat that is brought to the table.
We started with a plate of fruit and prosciutto as well. Which was the perfect accompaniment for a few Sunday Fun Day cocktails.
This is one of the best Bloody Mary’s I have had in the area. The arribiatta spices give it its kick.
Take a moment to peruse the cocktail menu because there is everything from Negronis to Mimosas. Our party ordered juat about one of each and everyone was happy with their choice. I do want to go back and try the “cream no sugar” cocktail made with Earl Grey iced tea though.
For my brunch meal, I went with a mix of Italian food and eggs, so I ordered the pollo alla marengo. It was exactly what I wanted.
The pollo alla marengo is Chicken sautéed and then topped with a creamy sauce with mushroom. Then, the dish is stacked up with some perfectly crisp pancetta and a fried egg.
The pancakes were lovely. A perfect silver dollar with a soft middle and crispy edges topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and served with maple syrup. We will all be dreaming about these; I think they’re the new standard. I’m not sure I have had better from a restaurant.
Filed under: Breakfast, brunch, charcuterie, chicken, City Living, Cocktails, coffee, Dessert, dining out, Drink, eggs, Food, ice cream, Mushroom, restaurant Tagged: Belmont, brunch, cocktails, Coffee, eggs, Italian
