Ranch hosts clubhouse opening

A festive crowd enjoyed the opening of the new Big Meadow Clubhouse.

Neither overcast skies nor light drizzle could dampen the spirits of Black Butte Ranch homeowners, guests and well-wishers at the festive grand opening of the new Big Meadow restaurant on Saturday, May 18.

Several hundred partygoers spent the evening enjoying the ambiance of the lovely setting with friends while dining on creative appetizers and beverages.

The new $1.4 million dollar building provides vistas of the local mountains with its bright and airy views. Big Meadow restaurant includes a lounge, meeting room and outdoor patio accommodating up to 125 people.

Chef David Berger's menu is relaxed yet elegant in its presentation, featuring appetizers, pizzas, soup and salad, pannini sandwiches, pastas, dinner entrees and desserts.

"We have to serve a variety of customers," said Berger, "but we'll focus on food with great tastes to match our fantastic setting."

Berger's strength bends towards his Mediterranean creations. Bruschetta Caprese, Pizza Mediterranean, Mediterranean Salad, Baked Penne and Veal Piccata are specialties.

"I'm happy to see the new restaurant open," said BBR homeowner David Douthit. "I'm planning to ride my bicycle here in the summer, have a burger and a cold beer, and view the beautiful scenery."

The new Big Meadow restaurant is now open and serving the general public and Ranch property owners. A breakfast buffet is featured in the morning and lunch and dinner offer a sit-down menu. Prices range from $2 (cup of soup) to $15 (scampi dinner).

"The old clubhouse, demolished last fall to make way for the new structure, was small and inadequate to meet the expectations of today's golfers, both owners and guests alike," said Loy Helmly, BBR General Manager. "The new Clubhouse was funded entirely by Ranch property owners and represents their desire to see our facilities and services maintained and enhanced for the future."

Big Meadow restaurant and clubhouse is located at Black Butte Ranch, eight miles west of Sisters on Highway 20.