Just imagine for a minute that you’re in paradise. The nightmares of 2020 are long gone. You’re sitting on a warm, sandy beach looking out onto turquoise blue water and jagged cliffs along the coastline. Your skin’s glowing from the sun and your fat and happy with a mimosa in one hand and a croissant in the other. Wouldn’t that just be lovely?
As I write this, there are a few inches of snow on the ground and it’s about 29 degrees. I’m cozying up by the fire with hot cocoa dreaming about the beach.
I’m getting a little off topic, but I can’t help but reminisce. Personally, I find the beach one of the most romantic vacations. If you live by the beach, count me as one jealous hen. For the rest of you who are sitting at home like me, I wanted to share a romantic brunch that’s sure to warm things up.
What To Drink
Rose French 75
The French 75 is a perfect breakfast cocktail and the rose twist gives it a gorgeous shade of pink for Valentine’s Day. A classic French 75 is made with gin, but I prefer vodka. Feel free to use the liquor of your choice! I loved this recipe by Burrata and Bubbles.
I created my own version with Cognac instead of gin, and it was delicious. A little more robust than the refreshing French 75, but it really worked.
What To Eat
Brunch Grazing Board for Two to Four
The grazing board concept is perfect for a romantic morning for two. I love the flexibility of a board. You can curate a small tray to take to your lover in bed or set up a decadent spread on a table with coffee and drinks ready. There are endless variations for a beautiful brunch board spread. This is just one brunch board idea that I did recently with a European flair!
Brunch Board Essentials
- Home-made mini waffles (You can find some reasonably priced heart shaped waffle makers on Delish’s list.)
- 2 condiments in small jars – honey, crunch peanut butter
- A jar of Maple Syrup
- 1-2 Cheeses – Triple Cream Brie and Honey Goat Cheese (or a similar soft cheese)
- 3-4 Meats – prosciutto, salami rose, coppa, and bacon
- Seasonal fruits – Strawberries, blueberries, and grapes
- 1/2 of a Baguette sliced
- Rose petals and flowers
- Assemble your board starting with the toast and waffles. Then add the cheese and meats.
- Add in the seasonal fruit and other smaller items until the board is mostly covered.
- Use decorative bowls for your dips, spreads and smaller items.
How to Create an Ambiance
I recently listened to The Skinny Confidential podcast’s interview of Lisa Vanderpump, the restaurant mogul and star of Vanderpump Rules. She said that in any of her restaurant plans, the lighting is absolutely essential (I’m paraphrasing here.) But it really is so crucial. Even if there’s natural lighting, light a few candles.
Lay a picnic blanket onto the floor or your bed. Place a new flower bouquet into a vintage vase. Toss some rose petals onto your blanket. Place an artificial eucalyptus garland around your brunch board. Simple and elegant.
Enjoy the beauty around you and your boozy brunch.
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