Nestled within the vibrant Collage Culinary Experience at Bloomingdale's South Coast Plaza, Blossoms & Brass stands out as a premier destination for brunch enthusiasts in Costa Mesa. With its unique fusion of Italian and Japanese flavors, this restaurant offers a brunch menu that caters to diverse palates. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring the culinary scene, here's a curated guide to the must-try brunch dishes at Blossoms & Brass.
1. Lobster Roll
A brunch classic reimagined, the Lobster Roll at Blossoms & Brass features sautéed lobster in coriander-garlic butter, nestled in a sweet butter roll. Complemented by house-made truffle and herb aioli and served with crispy house-made chips, this dish offers a luxurious start to your brunch experience.
2. Veggie Risotto
For those seeking a vegetarian option, the Veggie Risotto is a delightful choice. Crafted with Arborio saffron rice, shimeji mushrooms, roasted tomatoes, basil, miso, and parmesan cheese, this dish delivers rich flavors and a comforting texture.
3. Bok & Beet Salad
A refreshing and healthful option, the Bok & Beet Salad combines baby bok choy, arugula, orange segments, cashews, chives, pickled onions, blue cheese, fennel, and shiso fume furikake, all tossed in a beet and honey vinaigrette. This salad offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
4. Watermelon Tartar
Perfect for a light start, the Watermelon Tartar features fresh watermelon, avocado, pickled cucumber, orange, mint, microgreens, sesame seeds, kimchi powder, ponzu, and herb oil, served with crispy wontons. This dish is a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes.
5. Wagyu Crudo
For a more indulgent choice, the Wagyu Crudo offers Mishima Reserve American wagyu, truffle and herb aioli, sesame oil, pickled cucumber, ponzu, avocado, shiso fume furikake, shredded pepper, fennel, green onions, and fried wontons. This dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor.
6. Poke Tartar
A nod to Japanese influences, the Poke Tartar combines mild truffle aioli, avocado, heirloom cherry tomatoes, green onions, togarashi, microgreens, spice oil, ajinomoto, and fried wontons. It's a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of fusion cuisine.
7. Sandwich Caprese
A classic with a twist, the Sandwich Caprese features fresh mozzarella, basil, heirloom cherry tomatoes, ponzu vinaigrette, pink pesto, and house-made chips. It's a light yet satisfying option for those seeking familiar flavors with a unique touch.
8. Brass Calamari
The Brass Calamari is a must-try for those craving something crispy and savory. This dish offers a delightful kick and a satisfying crunch, served with sambal aioli, parmesan, green onions, and shichimi-togarashi.
9. Fried Portobello
A vegetarian delight, the Fried Portobello consists of eight pieces of fried portobello wedges, served with a choice of sauces: truffle and herb aioli, romesco, sambal aioli, or Japanese arrabiata. It's a hearty and flavorful option for mushroom lovers.
10. Signature Cocktails
No brunch is complete without a refreshing cocktail. Blossoms & Brass offers a range of specialty cocktails, including:
- Delizia Sour: H by Hine Cognac, Triple Sec, pineapple, lemon, and Italian wine.
- Coco Highball: Crop Vodka, coconut, passionfruit, sea salt, and Fever Tree soda water.
- The Genovese: Tequila Cimarron, Lo-Fi Dry Vermouth, ginger, ponzu basil syrup, and lime.
- Dolce Amaro: Planteray Rum, Campari, passionfruit, citrus, and aromatic bitters.
These cocktails are crafted to complement the brunch menu, enhancing your dining experience.
Conclusion
Blossoms & Brass in Costa Mesa offers a brunch experience that seamlessly blends Italian and Japanese culinary traditions. With a diverse menu featuring both classic and innovative dishes, it's the perfect spot for a leisurely Sunday brunch. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty Lobster Roll, a refreshing Bok & Beet Salad, or a signature cocktail, Blossoms & Brass has something to satisfy every palate.
Ready to experience the best brunch in Costa Mesa?
Visit Blossoms & Brass today and indulge in a culinary journey like no other.