Photograph by George Sakkestad
Roma Riker (left) and Mary Anne Leach of the Montalvo Service Group are preparing for a series of Sunday brunches at the Villa.
By Suzanne Cristallo
Champagne Sunday brunches will be served in the main rooms of Villa Montalvo in Saratoga once a month starting with a Valentine's theme on Feb. 16. The brunches, each with a different seasonal theme, are being offered to help raise money to expand the artist-in-residence facilities on the estate, which was donated by the late Sen. James D. Phelan for the purpose of furthering the arts.
Pat Smith's Extravaganza Catering in Saratoga will serve a buffet of chef-carved meats, vegetable and fruit salads, a variety of egg dishes and desserts in keeping with the themes. In addition to Valentine's Day in February, the March brunch will honor St. Patrick, the April brunch celebrates spring and the May brunch will be held on Mother's Day.
On each Sunday, there will be seatings at 11 a.m. and again at 1 p.m. by reservation only. The cost is $40 for adults and $20 for children 12 and under, tax and tip included. Infants under 2 years are free. A portion of the cost of the brunch is tax-deductible.
Local musicians will perform for the guests, and as the weather improves, both diners and artists may move outdoors to enjoy more intimately the sweeping lawns and gardens which surround the villa.
Presently, there are five artists-in-residence, chosen by a jury from as many as 300 applicants from the United States and abroad. Usually "young and up-and-coming," the artists are given the gift of time to pursue their various disciplines. They occupy some small cottages and apartments but need up-to-date rehearsal rooms, studio space, a darkroom and community rooms.
"We're hoping to make spots for more artists by helping to fund a capital campaign with a goal of $3 million which can be used to expand the living facilities," says Ursula Millett of the Montalvo Service Group, the volunteer organization which is sponsoring the brunches and which funds the upkeep of the villa and grounds. Millett notes that much of the goal has been realized, and matching funds will be available.
Champagne Sunday brunches at Villa Montalvo, 15400 Montalvo Rd., Saratoga. Open for brunch Sun., Feb. 16, March 9, April 13, May 11, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Call 741-3421, ext. 300, weekdays for reservations.
This article appeared in the Saratoga News, January 29, 1997.
©1997 Metro Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.