WALNUT GROVE — A touch of Italy served with a romantic Sunday brunch awaits those venturing into heart of the Delta at the Grand Island Mansion.
The unique and historic 58-room Italian Renaissance villa is part of the largest private estate in Northern California. The four-story, 24,000-square-foot villa was built by European craftsmen in 1917 for Louis Meyers and his wife Audrey, daughter of Lubin of the Weinstocks Lubin department stores. The mansion has been the subject of photo spreads and stories in the National Geographic, Sunset Magazine, Architectural Digest, Playboy magazine, Victoria’s Secret catalog, and Macy’s Furniture Catalog. It is now primarily a wedding setting — with incredible and elegant overnight accommodations in suites on the third and fourth floors — although the mansion and grounds are open for public viewing and dining during the Sunday Champagne Brunch served from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. with reservations required. Upcoming brunch dates are Feb. 8, 15, and 22; March 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; April 12, 19, and 26; May 17, 24 and 31; and June 14 and 21.
There are special brunches scheduled for Easter Sunday on April 5 and Mother’s Day on May 10. The drive through the Delta to reach the Grand Island Mansion is pleasant. The architecture and grounds is a feast for the eyes. The food — simply put — is worth every penny of the $29.95 per person charge. Taxes and gratuities are not included. The buffet champagne brunch menu includes freshly baked Focaccia bread, rolls, and scones; fresh brewed coffee, team, milk and orange juice with champagne served throughout the meal; mixed green salad with pears, mandarin oranges, pecans, and goat cheese, Mediterranean pasta salad; red and Yukon potato hash; herb-seasoned vegetables; eggs Benedict; Italian toast; fresh mushroom and asiago cheese crepes; chef inspired frittata; oven roasted herb seasoned prime rib; and a gourmet dessert buffet. The food is great but the dining setting — a striking two-story banquet hall — is equally impressive.
To reach the Grand Mansion from the 209, take Interstate 5 north out of Stockton to the Walnut Grove/Thornton exit. Turn left and head rest into the small town of Walnut Grove. Turn left at the stop sign and cross the bridge turning right onto Highway 160 when you get to the other side. You will travel north on the west side of the river before turning left just before the Steamboat Bridge Crossing. You will travel three miles on Grand Island road to the mansion.
For reservations call 916.775.1705. For more information go to www.grandislandmansion.com.
