Out & About #231 | Brunch at Otello's

Whoever invented the concept of brunch deserves a standing ovation. The theory of combining sweet breakfast items with savoury, more filling lunch items is absolutely ingenious, especially since majority of the population enjoys sleeping in on weekends.

A brief Yelp search for suitable Mother's Day brunch options led me to Otello's Banquet Hall and Convention Centre in Oakville. With ample free parking spots and an acceptable price range, it wasn't hard to rule out the chaos of journeying downtown to the Ritz or Windsor Arms. Of course, its close proximity to my house also played a significant factor.

Two sessions were available for the actual day: 10 AM to 1 PM, and 2 PM to 5 PM; both required complete payment upfront.
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I had ventured to the largely industrial location prior to the date, scoping out the venue for the sake of determining appropriate attire and camera equipment (should I decide to commit to lugging it with me). I had first been shown the ballroom, which appeared dim and somewhat lacklustre as a brunch spot. It was nowhere comparable to the gorgeous waterfront of Spencer's, but nonetheless, I was willing to give it a try.

To my sheer delight, the venue was styled every so elegantly on the actual date. Arranged atop white patterned tablecloths and ruched lavender satin pieces was the most expansive selection of baked goods, salads, hot dishes, and pastries I have witnessed.
Perhaps it wasn't presented in nearly the same quantities as Spencer's, but the variety of dishes remained impressive. There was something for everyone, whether it be those abiding to a strict vegetarian diet or those looking to lower sodium and chlolestrol intake. The salad bar was simple, but comprised of the essential elements to construct a completely customized bowl; roasted vegetables and fresh fruit were also in abundance.

View the full album HERE !

The tables had been set up in the Royal Windsor Ballroom, each furnished with a pristine white tablecloth and unbloomed tulips with a mason jar vase. The dangling crystals on the curtain immediately adjacent to our table led a sophisticated touch to the arrangement.

Several distinct differences observed in Otello's brunch menu after a brief mental comparison with past brunch experiences. While the presence of the standard omelette bar remained, they didn't hop on the bandwagon for Eggs Benedict nor allocate a self-serve waffle bar. Instead, they offered unique Italian pastas, extremely fragrant Zuppa vi pesce (a mussels-based dish), ice cream cookie sandwiches, and freshly roasted marshmallows with graham cracker bits and caramel sauce. It was very refreshing to witness this change of pace.

Along with cranberry juice, orange juice, coffee, and tea, there was also a bar area inside the ballroom. Select beer and wine varieties were available for ordering, though would induce additional charges on top of the brunch fare.

 Overall, I was very impressed with the experience and the banquet hall's incredible versatility. All food items were of superb quality and unarguably more unique than other locations. Throughout my stay, the washroom had been kept pristine, the serving staff always readily available for assistance, and the food constantly replenished.

I later suggested a short stroll by the waterfront to relive satiation before heading back.

Paired with a light breeze, the gentle knocking of the waves along the copper stone-lined shore yielded a scene of serenity and relaxation.

(Side: this would make an amazing photoshoot location!)