Too much brunch to handle?

Growing up, I remember how much of a treat it was to go out to eat. An even bigger treat was when we went to a buffet. Those four little words lit up in neon on the outside of the strip mall window just made my heart skip a beat: All-You-Can-Eat. After each trip to the buffet, my father always reminded me, “eat as much as you want, just don’t get sick.” I think he was afraid that I would ruin the upholstery in the Grand Caravan on the way home.

Even as an adult, I am enamored with those four little words strung together. When a restaurant adds them to brunch, I fast for days in preparation.

In my brunch excursions around the city, I have come across two different styles of the all-you-can-eat brunch. Saz’s State House provides  traditional serve yourself, buffet-style dining with endless options for any taste. Conversely, Envoy at the Ambassador Hotel allows diners to sit and order from a menu of small plate, made-to-order entrees.

If you are a fan of a long line of food that can stretch out as far as the eye can see, then you must visit Saz’s (check out my full review here). This Milwaukee staple is known for their ribs and catering, but if you need to tank up on some good food before a weekend afternoon Brewers game, make plans to stop in. Their brunch offers not only breakfast and lunch options (including their famous ribs), you have the choice of ham and beef carving stations or a made-to-order omelet.

Have a sweet tooth? Not to worry — there are trays upon trays of desserts. Just around the corner there is a large assortment of doughnuts, muffins and bagels. And to top it off, there is a bucket of ice cream with as many toppings they would ever want. Saz’s definitely knows its clientele and your choice of a Bloody Mary or mimosa is included with the price of the meal.

During the Brewers season, there is also a shuttle to Miller Park. So if you wanted to tailgate with some eggs benedict, you’re all set.

But if you’re not quite into standing in line to get your food, Envoy offers a sit-down, made-to-order brunch. Read about my brunch experience and don’t overlook this diamond in the rough.

With so many excellent options to choose from, the menu can be overwhelming, so I usually sit down with a plan of attack. My personal best has been six plates during one sitting, and that takes some skill. I prefer the heavier dishes like steak and eggs or the crab cake benedict before filling up on the sweets.

Towards the end, I always order at least one plate of the French toast. This light and fluffy toast is packed with flavor and subtle sweetness. The cinnamon brulée batter lightly coats the bread so that the diner does not get a chunk of scrambled eggs with their bite. The topping of whipped vanilla cheesecake is a nice tang to go with the bananas, strawberries and maple syrup. It is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with a hint of cinnamon. This is my favorite item on their menu.

The Ambassador Hotel also offers a shuttle service for its guests to various entertainment venues around the city: Miller Park, the Marcus Center for Performing Arts or the Summerfest grounds.

Whether you want to tank up on some food before the ball game or sit and have a crab cake benedict before a show, Milwaukee’s various dining options can satisfy your tastes. I hope you check out these restaurants the next time you are contemplating where to go one Sunday morning.

Until next time, enjoy the weekend and happy brunching.

Saz’s State House
5539 W State St
Milwaukee, WI 53208
414-453-2410
Major credit cards accepted

Envoy at the Ambassador Hotel
2308 W Wisconsin Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53233
414-345-5015
Major credit cards accepted