If there’s one thing Torontonians are really good at, it’s brunch. Of all the meals I’ve had in Toronto, the most memorable ones have been at the overflowing, popular brunch joints. Whether it’s a dim sum feast in Chinatown (will post about the heavenly Bright Pearl SOON) or a trendy cafe on Queen St. West, brunch rules in Toronto.
When my brother took me to Insomnia Cafe on Bloor St. West, I found its name to be quite ironic for a brunch hotspot. Once I got to the cafe though, the energetic and youthful vibe of the trendy joing suggested that this place is indeed, well, an insomniac.
With mimosas, spiked smoothies, coffee and other cocktails on the menu, those entering Insomnia with a hangover can continue their morning-after festivities here. My brother’s friends and I, however, chose to forego the breakfast liquor and opted for some fresh OJ. Nothing special or extraordinary.
The breakfast entrees, on the other hand, were out of this world. I decided to be a little adventurous and went for the Eggs Charlotte, the smoked-salmon version of the classic eggs benny. Thank god I was feeling daring, because these eggs were delicious. The smoked salmon served as a surprisingly tasty complement to the eggs, and the entire concoction was topped off with the perfect amount of hollandaise sauce.
The rest of the crew went for the Citrus Spiked French Toast, the Waffles w/ fresh strawberries and a specialty omelet (can’t remember the name unfortunately!). There was a positive response all around the table and a whole lot of finger-lickin’. Our extremely theatrical waitress (struggling actress, perhaps?) was spot on with all her recommendations – the homefries and the sausages on the side were distinctive and flavorful.
Will be back this summer to sample the dinner menu. Also a major plus – its University of Toronto campus location.
Deets: 563 Bloor St. West, www.insomniacafe.com
