Weekend Brunch at the Highlander Hotel

On a return trip from Nebraska, we were looking for a place to stay for a night to break up the 10 hour drive. Iowa City seemed the perfect half-way point and the first place I thought of was the Highlander Hotel, a spot I'd visited shortly after opening.

This place has a groovy throwback vibe reminiscent of the fabulous 70s when the supper club and hotel were in its heyday. As far as boutique hotels, this has definitely been one of the coolest ones, where everything just lingers in a different era. 

It is recognized as one of the Historic Hotels of America, being one of the newest ones on the list of about 300 significant hotel properties in the country.

We got in late, had a bite at the on-site restaurant, Lucy's, located in the former supper club space, and then got some shut-eye. The next morning was a chill Sunday where we made our way down for the weekend brunch buffet, which is included in your stay (grab and go breakfast options are available on weekdays).

I was very pleasantly surprised by the quality and variety, which included one of the best servings of biscuits and gravy I've ever had, made with a green chili gravy. (I may or may not have gone back for seconds). They rotate other items, but the day we were there, they also had bacon, sausage, egg casserole, oatmeal, a big variety of toppings for a yogurt parfait and mini waffles, with what tasted like freshly whipped cream along with fruit. It has ruined me for hotel breakfast buffets. It will be hard to top this one. For a breakfast like this at a hotel, you're usually paying extra beyond the cost of your room. It's been a week and I'm still craving those biscuits and gravy.

The buffet is set up in the Legend Room and then we walked across the hall where tables were set up with a lush purple theme that included little lamps with deep purple shades atop them and purple velvet chairs at the ends of the table. It felt a little bit royal. A little bit retro. A little bit rock n' roll.

If you're ever making your way west along I-80 in Iowa and looking for a place to stay, you should absolutely keep this place in mind - especially if you're a weekend bruncher. It's available up until 11 am for those who like to sleep in or may be recovering from a festive night before.

For more information or to book reservations, visit highlanderhotel.us.