Today, we’re taking you on a journey to the Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina. This historic resort hotel, nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, has been welcoming guests for over a century. With its grand ski lodge ambiance, stone facade, and oversized fireplaces, stepping into this hotel feels like stepping into a world of luxury and charm. From famous past guests, such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Thomas Edison, to its role as a potential safe haven for the Supreme Court in the event of an enemy attack, there’s no shortage of fascinating stories connected to this place. And let’s not forget the main event – Sunday brunch at the Blue Ridge restaurant. With a wide array of mouthwatering dishes, including mac and cheese, pancakes, and fried chicken, this buffet is sure to satisfy any food lover’s cravings. So, if you find yourself in Asheville on a Sunday, make sure to treat yourself to a delightful brunch experience at the Omni Grove Park Inn.
Our time at the Omni Grove Park Inn didn’t stop there. We also had the chance to witness the largest gingerbread house competition in America, which returned to the inn after being virtual in 2020. With over 120 entries and prizes for different age groups, this competition showcased some truly impressive gingerbread creations. The grand prize went to a group from Phoenix, Arizona, for their intricately designed carousel themed entry, titled “Christmas Round the World.” As we left the inn, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the history and beauty of the place. Even though we didn’t get to see everything, such as the renowned spa, our experience at the Omni Grove Park Inn was nothing short of memorable. Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, a unique event, or simply a relaxing retreat, we highly recommend visiting this esteemed establishment.
Experience Brunch at the Blue Ridge Restaurant in Omni Grove Park Inn
Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful culinary experience in Asheville, North Carolina, then a visit to the Omni Grove Park Inn is a must. This historic resort hotel, nestled in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a range of amenities and activities to ensure a memorable stay. One of the highlights of a visit to this iconic hotel is Sunday brunch at the Blue Ridge Restaurant. With a wide array of delectable dishes, a charming ambiance, and impeccable service, brunch at the Omni Grove Park Inn is an experience that will leave you satisfied and delighted.
About Omni Grove Park Inn
Location
The Omni Grove Park Inn is conveniently situated just 2.6 miles away from downtown Asheville, making it easily accessible for visitors. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or exploring the area, the location of the Omni Grove Park Inn allows for easy travel to and from the city’s attractions.
History
Built in the early 1900s, the Omni Grove Park Inn holds a rich history that adds to its allure. Constructed with rough granite stone, this magnificent resort hotel has been welcoming guests for over a century. After undergoing a complete restoration in 1988, the hotel now boasts 510 guest rooms, 40 meeting rooms, 2 ballrooms, 4 restaurants, 2 swimming pools, an 18-hole golf course, 9 tennis courts, and a world-famous spa. The history and grandeur of the Omni Grove Park Inn are evident from the moment you step inside.
Facilities
The Omni Grove Park Inn offers an impressive range of facilities to cater to the needs and preferences of its guests. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by valet parking services, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience. The hotel features extra-high ceilings, a stunning stone facade, oversized fireplaces, and dark wood accents, creating a cozy and luxurious ambiance. The world-famous spa is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation, and the restaurants and bars provide a variety of dining and drink options. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stay or a fun-filled getaway, the Omni Grove Park Inn has something for everyone.
Famous Guests at Omni Grove Park Inn
Notable Guests
Over the years, the Omni Grove Park Inn has played host to numerous famous individuals who have left their mark on history. From influential politicians to renowned authors and artists, the guest list is truly impressive. Some notable guests include William Jennings Bryan, Helen Keller, Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Harry Houdini. At the hotel, you can even admire chairs and desks that were once used by these iconic figures, adding a touch of nostalgia and intrigue to your stay.
Presidential Visits
The Omni Grove Park Inn has also had the honor of hosting several United States presidents throughout its history. From FDR to Barack Obama, the hotel has welcomed these world leaders during their time in office. The rich history of presidential visits adds a sense of prestige and grandeur to the hotel, making it a truly special place to stay.
Quirky Story
One quirky and intriguing aspect of the Omni Grove Park Inn is a contract on display that states in the event of an enemy attack on the United States, the Supreme Court can relocate to the hotel. While the meaning and practicality of this contract might be questionable, it adds an element of fascination and curiosity to the hotel’s history.
The Largest Gingerbread House Competition
Annual Competition
The Omni Grove Park Inn is renowned for hosting the largest gingerbread house competition in America. After being virtual in 2020, the competition returned to the hotel for its 29th year in 2021. With over 120 entries from participants of all ages, this competition showcases incredible gingerbread houses that are both visually stunning and entirely edible. It’s a delight for visitors of all ages to witness the creativity and skill displayed in these edible artworks.
Categories and Judging Criteria
The competition is divided into four different age groups: child (five to eight-year-olds), youth (nine to 12-year-olds), teen (13 to 17-year-olds), and adult. A panel of judges evaluates the gingerbread houses based on overall appearance, originality, creativity, difficulty, precision, and consistency of theme. The competition allows participants to showcase their talent and imagination while embracing the festive spirit of the holiday season.
Grand Prize Winner
In 2021, the grand prize was awarded to the Merry Mischev Bakers, a group from Phoenix, Arizona. Their entry, titled “Christmas Round the World,” featured an impressively intricate carousel made entirely of gingerbread. The attention to detail and craftsmanship displayed in their creation was truly awe-inspiring, making them worthy recipients of the grand prize. The gingerbread house competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn is an event that shouldn’t be missed for anyone visiting during the holiday season.
Sunday Brunch at the Blue Ridge Restaurant
Reservation
To ensure a seamless dining experience, it is recommended to make a reservation for Sunday brunch at the Blue Ridge Restaurant. The buffet-style brunch runs from noon to 2:30 pm each Sunday and costs $43 for adults. Making a reservation allows you to secure your spot and avoid any potential waiting times, ensuring that you can indulge in the culinary delights without delay.
Buffet Details
The Sunday brunch at the Blue Ridge Restaurant offers a lavish spread of delectable dishes, carefully crafted to satisfy every palate. From traditional breakfast favorites to savory lunch options and irresistible desserts, the buffet is a feast for the senses. The buffet setup allows you to enjoy a wide variety of dishes, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Menu Highlights
The menu at Sunday brunch showcases a wide array of mouthwatering options. From classics like mac and cheese, pancakes, and french toast to heartier options like sausage, scrambled eggs, and potato hash, there’s no shortage of choices to please even the most discerning taste buds. Seafood lovers will delight in the Rockefeller oysters, while fans of Southern cuisine can indulge in biscuits and gravy. The buffet also features fried shrimp and fried chicken, both of which are sure to satisfy any craving. Don’t miss the full omelet station, where you can customize your omelet with various fresh veggies, as well as the seafood station with calamari and shrimp. The carving station offers succulent cuts of meat, and there are several different types of grits and oatmeal to choose from. Be sure to save room for bacon, as well as the many different types of cakes and pies available for dessert. With such a wide variety of dishes to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice at Sunday brunch at the Omni Grove Park Inn.
Recommended Activities at Omni Grove Park Inn
Exploring the Facilities
The Omni Grove Park Inn offers a range of activities and facilities to enhance your stay. Take the time to explore the hotel’s stunning architecture and charming interior design. Admire the oversized fireplaces, dark wood accents, and high ceilings that create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The beauty of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains can be appreciated through the hotel’s windows and outdoor spaces, inviting you to take a leisurely stroll and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Spa Experience
A visit to the world-famous spa at the Omni Grove Park Inn is a must for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Indulge in a wide range of treatments, from massages and facials to body wraps and manicures. The spa’s tranquil atmosphere and skilled therapists ensure a truly blissful experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Dining and Drink Options
In addition to the Sunday brunch at the Blue Ridge Restaurant, the Omni Grove Park Inn offers a variety of dining options to cater to all tastes. From casual fare to fine dining experiences, there’s something for every palate. Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the hotel’s elegant restaurants, sample artisanal cocktails at the bar, or grab a quick bite to eat at one of the more casual eateries. Whatever your preference, the Omni Grove Park Inn has you covered.
Accommodation
For those looking to extend their stay, the Omni Grove Park Inn offers luxurious accommodations that ensure a comfortable and memorable experience. Choose from a variety of room types to suit your needs, whether you’re seeking a cozy retreat or a spacious suite. Each room is elegantly furnished and designed to provide a sense of relaxation and tranquility. Wake up to breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoy the convenience of having all the hotel’s amenities at your fingertips.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a luxurious getaway, a visit to the Omni Grove Park Inn is an experience you won’t soon forget. From the grandeur of the hotel’s architecture to the delectable cuisine at Sunday brunch, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Take the time to explore the facilities, indulge in a spa treatment, and savor the culinary delights on offer. The Omni Grove Park Inn is a true gem nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a perfect blend of luxury, history, and natural beauty. Make sure to add it to your list of must-visit destinations and create memories that will last a lifetime.