Norman

What do you do when you purchase a historic, mid-century modern motel on the top of a hill overlooking a tiny town off the 101 freeway on the Central Coast of California that has a photographer's dream of a sign out front but that is also lovingly referred to as the Bates Motel? You renovate the rooms, make it look like it was transported here from the Coachella Valley, keep the sign, and open an on-site restaurant named Norman, of course!

The Skyview Motel in Los Alamos, California first opened in 1959 and had always been a roadside icon. However, icon status does not always ensure that something will remain. It sometimes takes dedicated individuals to breathe new life into a place to make sure its sticks around for future generations. Thankfully, that is exactly what has saved the Skyview from being forgotten.

Norman is the brunch spot to end all brunch spots. The decor is elegant rustic, the menu is locally inspired ,and the views are spectacular. Since the weather here is more often perfect than not, you can sit outside and soak up the poolside ambiance or you can settle into a comfy suede booth indoors.  

The brunch menu at Norman is relatively small, which is exactly what makes it so good. The chefs here aren't going for quantity over quality by trying to dazzle the eyes with dozens of choices. They aim to dazzle your tastebuds with a carefully curated assemblage of seasonal and local hits. Try a cheese plate for the table to start, then go for the Norman Burger (with Swiss cheese and caramelized onions on a brioche bun that looks like a sculpture when it's brought out) or the Avocado Toast (with heirloom tomatoes, macerated leak, and bagel crunch). And don't forget a cocktail! 

The only problem with brunching at Norman is you won't want to leave! Lucky for you you don't have to.

www.skyviewlosalamos.com