early bird catches a table

One of the great things about having a child who wakes up somewhere between 5 and 6 a.m. on the weekends, is that you can actually get stuff accomplished and maybe even get up and out the door in time for brunch without having to wait in line for a table.
(at least this is how I am trying to make myself feel better for my sorry ass being prematurely ripped from bed every morning)
Before we had Lulu we used to eat out for brunch quite a bit. But I have to admit, it did get to a point where I was so hungry by the time we got a table, and finally got served, that I actually got tired of going out for brunch all together.
Instead I felt it was much easier (and cheaper) to poach a couple of my own free-range eggs at home, with some Cobb's bread lightly toasted, a side of cumbrea's breakfast sausage and some greave's chili chutney on the side.
Then again, there is something to be said about letting someone else whip up a bit of breakie for you on  a Sunday morning.

That being said, we managed to go out a few weeks ago to Edward Leveque's Kitchen on Queen east in Leslieville.

I wasn't expecting much, and hadn't really heard much about the place. It caught my eye, and I was feeling my restaurant mojo, so we decided to give it a try. We had to wait...but not for a huge line up of people, but for them to open up. That's how pathetically early we actually were. But fortunately we weren't the only early birds, and the place was half full within the first half hour of being open. Looks like they have a pretty loyal following, I couldn't help but noticing that the waitress seemed to know a few of the regulars by name.  Always a good sign.

The place is bright and cheerful, cozy and quite charming. I love the bright open concept kitchen at the front and I'm sure it's a pleasure cooking there. Plus it's nice to see where your food is being prepared. Our waitress was super sweet and really great towards lulu. Which is another good sign of a great neighborhood restaurant. We all got cozy on the booth with lots of funky pillows to relax against. Big daddy shared his delicious banana pancakes with a side of fresh fruit with Lulu. I enjoyed the poached eggs with a tomato basil sauce and a side of whole wheat toast. It was simple and very good. No frills, not greasy or too heavy. My kind of breakfast.

I'd like to go back and try the dinner there, I took a peak at the menu and it looks good. Again, simple and unpretentious. A great little neighborhood spot.

3 G's for this place.

Good food + Great service + Great Vibe

oh and I might add that the chef/owner had a big jar of homemade chocolate chip cookies which he very sweetly offered to Lulu...who of course couldn't be more thrilled.

Edward Leveque's Kitchen

1290 Queen east 416- 465-3500

www.edwardlevesque.ca

Comments

[metro mama]

We haven't made it to this one yet, but my friend who lives in the 'hood says it's fab for dinner.

[redwagons]

I love this place. Great service, great food and close-ish to home. so glad you wrote about it!