Polished hotel brasserie with very good food, lively vibe, and standout brunches, but service consistency and holiday buffet value can vary.
Laurel Brasserie & Bar delivers solid A-grade performance through strong food quality anchored by praised steak frites, pizzas, and seafood, paired with exceptional setting appeal within the Grand America's elegant design and pergola patio. However, inconsistent execution—particularly around holiday buffet variability and occasional temperature/seasoning lapses—prevents the higher distinction needed for grade A territory. The warm service and fair pricing for a luxury hotel setting make this a reliable choice for special occasions and brunch traditions.
Inside The Grand America, Laurel feels elegant yet relaxed: high ceilings, fresh flowers, and a patio under a pergola. Service skews warm and polished, with live music lending holiday brunches a festive energy. One guest summed it up: "It felt like a chic European spot downtown." The cooking leans elevated comfort over theatrics: steak frites with béarnaise butter, crisp pizzas, branzino and salmon, and seasonal touches like squash arancini and pistachio pesto. Portions satisfy without heaviness, and pricing lands fairly for a luxury hotel setting—though buffet value and selection can fluctuate on big holidays. For families, this is kid-welcoming when you time it right. Brunch spreads often include pizza, mac and cheese, fried chicken, and a gelato bar. On the a la carte menu, burgers, fries, and margherita pizza suit younger eaters; vegan choices are limited, but vegetarian options are solid.
Area vibe: Upscale downtown hotel setting attracting business travelers, special-occasion diners, and visitors.
Safety: Well-maintained hotel block with strong security and foot traffic; generally safe and well lit.
What's nearby: Inside The Grand America complex; near offices, convention venues, and other downtown attractions.
Steak Frites, Scottish Salmon, burgers and the seasonal pastas are consistently praised and have clear price points.
You should dress smart-casual, book ahead for brunch or holidays, and plan for garage parking and typical meal prices in the $32–$66 range.
An elegant but relaxed hotel brasserie with high ceilings, floral touches and a pergola patio, often lively during brunch with live music.