Will W.
Yelp
A Sunday Brunch to Remember at Roberto's Deluxe
Woodstock is a culinary town that always promises surprises, and I've held off reviewing just a few restaurants here, waiting for something truly special. Roberto's Deluxe was at the top of that list, and it did not disappoint.
From the moment I arrived for Sunday brunch, I realized this was not going to be your typical eggs-and-mimosas affair. The menu leaned more towards lunch than brunch, which, while unexpected, felt like a deliberate choice. If brunch is about indulgence, Roberto's achieved it in their own way.
I began with oysters--a dozen, three of each variety on offer. The Macintosh and Sons from Georgia were my personal highlight, their briny sweetness a perfect match for the slightly unconventional mignonette. It wasn't trying too hard to stand out but had a subtle elegance that lingered beautifully on the palate. The freshly grated horseradish added just the right kick.
For the table, I ordered coleslaw. Yes, coleslaw. It's a polarizing dish, but Roberto's rendition struck a balance between familiarity and flair. Creamy yet bright, it whispered of tradition while teasing with nuances I couldn't quite pin down. It was an unexpected star.
As for my main, I took a risk and ordered tuna tataki over glass noodles--a choice I might hesitate to make again for brunch but appreciated for its insight into Roberto's culinary range. The flavors were clean and well-executed, if not entirely what my brunch cravings desired. Still, it showcased the kitchen's versatility and finesse.
I also sampled the chowder fries--a creative, seafood-inspired take on poutine. Creamy chowder replaced the usual gravy, weaving the dish into Roberto's seafood-centric identity. They were indulgent and impossible to stop eating, the perfect table-sharer that hinted at whimsy without losing sophistication.
The kitchen's work was flawless, each dish arriving with precision and care. The Back of House team clearly knows their craft. However, Front of House was slightly less polished. While service was friendly and attentive, there were noticeable differences in the servers' level of training and etiquette. It wasn't disruptive, but the experience could be elevated with more cohesive service.
Despite these minor hiccups, Roberto's Deluxe lived up to my high expectations. This is a restaurant that knows its strengths and leans into them with confidence and creativity. I'm already planning my return visit--and next time, I might bring an even bigger appetite.