The annual Christmas brunch at the Ranchman's Club (not to be confused with the Ranchman's bar!) was once again a hit.
Everything you'd expect from a 5 star operation was present, along with some additional nice touches:
-- Imported cured (Serrano?) from Spain, that's like a fine wine in terms of aging & preparation to reach this point of serving. It's history proudly relayed to you by the chef as he expertly carves your cuts. . . . which made it a lot more interesting than, well, the chunk of meat I was eyeing up before he started telling me about it!
-- More crab claws and other seafood than guests could even eat .... no sense going "buzzard" over the good stuff, they ordered enough for all.
-- A bartender pouring champagne and OJ (or whatever else) non-stop.. It's five o'clock somewhere!
-- A kid's buffet spread that's about knee height for an adult. This allows the kiddies to serve themselves the assorted sliders, chicken fingers, and other kid-craving fare. Fun for them, less work for adults.
-- Santa on site with age-matched gifts and photos for all the little ones
-- Very attentive service on the plates and refills!
Beyond this particular occasion -- the Ranchman's itself is pretty unique in Calgary. Outside the building, you wouldn't even know it existed. Inside, it's a multi-floored establishment with history dating back to the 1890's. The photos on the walls reflect those links to the past.
Food & drinks are all top shelf. Private rooms are there for group dining or special occasions.
Afterwards? How bout some cocktails and snooker. This place rocks the biggest pool tables I have seen!