The Magic of Brunch

Our editor’s sweetheart snatches the keyboard from his cramped fingers and pens a review of her Brunch Experience at Fire + Water at Fire Mountain Inn.

Reservations are a must – call (800) 775-4446 or visit firemt.com.

Iam Tricia Smith, Luke Osteen’s partner, and I’m writing my third restaurant review ever, and it just so happens to be my third review of Fire + Water at Fire Mountain Inn.

You see, I’m passionate about the place, and the opportunity to visit them once more for their Sunday Brunch was just too irresistible to turn down.

I just don’t think he can adequately convey the magic of Fire + Water. And while he’s rhapsodized over the magic of brunch with a table of raucous friends, that’s completely different from what you can expect when you surrender to the gentle ministrations of owners Hiram and Mathew and their right-hand woman Breann. This is what I wrote in those glorious pre-Pandemic days:

“…It’s that very distance from the heart of Highlands that gives Fire + Water its undeniable tranquility. You’re instantly soothed. Part of that is derived from the gorgeous setting atop Fire Mountain. The carefully landscaped grounds create a zen state and the view reveals the ridges of five distinct mountain ranges on the horizon. This was accompanied by the sound of water cascading down a beautiful walled fountain just a few feet from our table.”

Tranquility. Is there a more valuable commodity in this tender post-Pandemic season?

As you travel down the Dillard Road between Scaly and Sky Valley and spy the bridge construction, you turn left and climb up an unassuming road; a road to blissful Fire & Water and the meal of your dreams awaits.

You’re welcomed by Hiram and given a seat in the lovely dining room smartly designed in Mid Century Modern style or the outdoor patio. Either way, you’re surrounded with relaxing views and fresh flowers. Hiram can make you a custom cocktail to start the gastronomical experience.

All the food is locally sourced and/or grown on site. Chef Mathew’s garden provides vegetables and herbs. No matter what you order, you are first impressed with the bright colors and freshness. Your visual first impression is followed by bursts of strategically arranged taste combinations that are sure to please.

Luke and I visited recently to try out the new Brunch Menu. I selected the Grilled Lemon Chicken Salad with Sliced Chicken Breast, steamed asparagus and red and yellow peppers and fresh thyme, herbed potato salad with little gem potatoes and a champagne vinaigrette, carrot cranberry slaw and finished off the meal with Fresh Berry Pavlova. Fire + Water’s version of this cherished dessert featured fresh blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries atop a dollop of meringue. Heaven on the lips.

Luke devoured the Cornmeal Crusted Trout and made a Happy Plate – no go-box for him.

Greetings from the staff are like getting together with old friends. Breann, attended us and kept our glasses full. Matthew created the flavor – color, well-balanced creations that are simple and pure and fabulous. We greeted old friends and made new ones.

No longer under the restrictions of the pandemic, we loved every part of the dining experience and see a bright season ahead.

by Tricia Smith