Brunch at Route 29

This is so late, but a couple of weeks ago, I was invited to a media brunch at Route 29 in Downtown San Diego. Named for the road leading through the Napa and Sonoma wine countries, Route 29 brings the flavors of California Wine Country to San Diego's Gaslamp District. 

The menu for their brunch (served on weekends only) is extensive and not for the faint-hearted. We're talking giant, food-topped Bloody Mary cocktails, steaks, and extra-large benedicts. 

They fed us until we cried for mercy, then gave us some more. Check out the spread!

 A vegetarian Bloody Mary with cauliflower, brussel sprout, and olives! The chipotle flavor was a nice change from the typical mix.

 This delicious artichoke dip was one of my favorites. No matter how much I eat this dip, I always want more. The presentation was lovely, with tri-colored chips and a caramelized lemon. 

 Three different Bloody Mary combinations for a perfect brunch.

The tuna tartare appetizer is available during dinner, but is a perfect light brunch bite. 

 The glazed pork belly is another item available during dinner, but a sumptuous and decadent brunch treat! 

 Short ribs and eggs? Yes, definitely. The short ribs were glazed with a sweet sauce, and served hot over scrambled eggs. Worth getting up early. 

 Bananas Foster French toast is almost too much to ask for, but Route 29 delivers this big, sweet breakfast for brunch. This is definitely one I would order for the table and share. 

 I was impressed by the vegetarian options offered, such as this veggie omelet served with potatoes, loads of spinach, and avocado.

 The crab eggs Benedict was one of the best things that I've eaten in 2018. I lived in Baltimore for many years, and I sure miss the crabcakes there. These Benedicts reminded me of the delicious crab in Maryland. 

 I told you they served us a lot of food! These Benedicts were loaded with short ribs and served over polenta. It was one of the most original takes on the classic dish that I've ever seen, and more short rib is always a good thing. 

 Last was a beautiful hanger steak, dry-aged from their mother restaurant, Greystone Steakhouse. It was wonderful, and a big step up from traditional steak and eggs with a huge steak cooked just as requested, and lovely eggs fluffy and perfect. 

Brunch is served at Route 29 downtown every Saturday and Sunday, and they are open every day for dinner.