13 Feb Hearty Brunch at The Old Place Cornell

Looking for a local escape? Head to The Old Place Cornell for brunch and you will feel like you have entered another place and time. Located in Agoura Hills, The Old Place Cornell was originally in the once established town of Cornell. Started by Tom Runyon and his wife more than 40 years ago, they converted a dilapidated former country store into a restaurant. Today, The Old Place is run by Tom Runyon’s son Morgan. Whether you head up for brunch or dinner, it’s best to plan ahead and reserve a table. It’s a small space with a handful of tables and seating at the bar that can accommodate almost 70 people. But, if you don’t plan ahead, don’t count on getting a seat, especially a table. Each table is reserved for 1 1/2 hours. You won’t feel rushed, but you won’t be lingering. The food at The Old Place Cornell is rustic, hearty and simple. It’s just plain good. With no fancy coffee machines, you can get a hot cup of coffee served in a tin cup, a glass of orange juice, sodas or a cocktail. The menu offers all of the brunch classics – frittatas, flap jacks, french toast, steak and eggs, biscuits and gravy and granola (if you want to try to go light). Don’t miss the Cinnamon Rolls! Served in a hot skillet, they come to the table fresh out of the oven, covered in a sugary topping. The Wild Mushroom and Goat Cheese Frittata is also served in a skillet – actually everything we ordered came in a skillet! There were big chunks of mushrooms and creamy goat cheese with a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom that were nice and crispy. The biscuit is a cornbread biscuit and is light and fluffy with a crunchy outside. Another special treat is a local house band that serenades diners while they eat. There is nothing more pleasurable than listening to live folk music while enjoying your meal to really complete the rustic experience. After a hearty brunch, head next door to the Cornell Tasting Room to taste a flight of local wines (from Malibu and Central Coast). By the time you head home, you will feel like you have been away for days. The Old Place Cornell 29983 Mulholland Highway, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 For reservations, call 1-818-706-9001