il Casale Cucina Italiana in Belmont is a warm, welcoming space.  The dining room is often filled with regulars from around town, the occasional Top Chef film crew, and those who have heard how good the food is. I am a fan of dinner at il Casale and have been in for special occasions and the occasional dinner out with friends. I was recently invited to see what the il Casale brunch was all about.

Chef Dante de Magistris and his brothers Filippo and Damian (who he co-owns the restaurants with) launched Sunday Brunch in Belmont this past November.  I don’t usually think Italian when I think brunch, but it turns out that making exceptional food doesn’t just stop at pasta and Italian classics here.  Brunch is held every Sunday from 11:30 am – 2:30 p.m. and whether you want pancakes or Bolognese they are both on the menu.

Go with the family, or enjoy a mom’s brunch out.  While the kids are in swimming lessons, at open gym, or at grandma’s house, sneak off to enjoy a romantic brunch for two. After you put in your order, enjoy the rich coffee, tea or a cocktail with a complimentary sweet treat that is brought to the table. 

We started with a plate of fruit and prosciutto as well. Which was the perfect accompaniment for a few Sunday Fun Day cocktails.

This is one of the best Bloody Mary’s I have had in the area. The arribiatta spices give it its kick.  

Take a moment to peruse the cocktail menu because there is everything from Negronis to Mimosas. Our party ordered juat about one of each and everyone was happy with their choice. I do want to go back and try the “cream no sugar” cocktail made with Earl Grey iced tea though.

For my brunch meal, I went with a mix of Italian food and eggs, so I ordered the pollo alla marengo. It was exactly what I wanted.

The pollo alla marengo is Chicken sautéed and then topped with a creamy sauce with mushroom.  Then, the dish is stacked up with some perfectly crisp pancetta and a fried egg.

The pancakes were lovely. A perfect silver dollar with a soft middle and crispy edges topped  with a dusting of powdered sugar and served with maple syrup. We will all be dreaming about these; I think they’re the new standard. I’m not sure I have had better from a restaurant.