Community Corner

Bites Nearby: Sunday Brunch with a View at Pine Knob Mansion

Who would have guessed the back of a ski hill is a great place for Sunday brunch?

Pine Knob Mansion, 5580 Waldon Rd., Clarkston, 248-625-0700

The back side of a ski hill might be the most unlikely place for a Sunday brunch,  but the buffet spread at the Pine Knob Mansion knows differently.

The mansion is at the top of a winding road through the golf course and winter sports community of Pine Knob. Before you step inside to dine, you might catch a glimpse of a snowboarder or two flying by.

Once inside the 1920s English manor, you'll be consumed by the full buffet — and the view. The Pine Knob mansion is said to set atop the highest natural point in southeastern Michigan, and it boasts views of up to 30 miles in each direction.

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But enough about the view. Let's talk about the food.

We'll start with the highlight: steamed crab legs, complete with a side dish of melted butter. They are a focal point of the buffet and will tease you to go up for seconds and thirds (which are allowed and encouraged by the helpful wait staff). 

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On a recent Sunday, other offerings included fried chicken, tortellini, almond-encrusted pork tenderloin, oven-baked fries and butter-soaked Brussels sprout. All this is in addition to the anticipated brunch fare: an omelet bar, waffles, French toast sticks, fresh fruit and nonstop bacon.

Oh, did you wonder about desserts? A separate buffet included pastries, apple and banana cream pie, cheesecake, chocolate brownies and a sundae bar.

If you're up for a little Sunday morning adventure, we recommend the 14-mile trip.

Recommended dishes: Crab legs, omelets, waffles topped with extra whipped cream. The desserts: Our party was partial to the chocolate cake and banana cream pie.

Prices: Adults $19.95; children 4-12 $12.95; 3 and younger are free

Credit cards: All major

Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays


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