LB is clearly a neighbourhood favourite as evidenced by the perpetual number of diners breakfasting, lunching, and snacking alfresco on the outdoor tables any day of the week. Having enjoyed one of their pineapple and mint frappes and toasted banana breads (with ricotta and cinnamon butter… dear God it was good!), I was keen to come back and sample some of their breakfast fare.

We finally got that opportunity one lazy Sunday. There was a 5 minute wait for an awkward guest number of three, but we kept the hunger at bay with some takeaway Allpress coffees. Coffees were hot and while not overly strong, they were still well-made and tasted consistent with what I expect of an Allpress coffee.

La Buvette exterior and main dining area

The menu is relatively simple and LB also has a specials board which we only discovered as we actually placed our order (it’s kind of hidden inside the small café interior when most of the action is happening outside). LB is well-staffed with efficient service (although water is not readily provided… pet peeve!).

La Buvette menu (click for larger image)

I was immediately sold by the description of the breakfast burrito – bacon, boiled egg, avo, spinach , tomato, aioli and pesto. I love Mexi-inspired breakfasts, although I would have preferred sour cream and salso to aioli and pesto, but they were still acceptable substitutes. The boiled egg was a healthy alternative to fried or scrambled eggs. The limp lettuce garnish hardly inspired and maybe they could go with a spicy relish (I did have to ask for Tabasco after all). The spinach tortilla was fresh and lightly toasted. All in all, a tasty filling breakfast and good value at $15.

breakfast burrito ($15)

My Eatfreak in crime and our visiting breakfast companion both got thrown a curveball by the specials board when ordering so both rescinded their original menu options for the blueberry pancakes with citrus butter, berry compote and maple syrup. The pancake stack was light and fluffy although drenched in thick maple syrup… a decadent option and not one for a diabetic. A little jug of maple syrup would be a better option so as not to saturate the pancakes. The citrus butter added a bit of flair, although again was liberally applied to the pancakes. Perhaps they should have been a bit more generous with the fruit instead. Basically give up all intentions of being healthy with this option. It was a tasty breakfast but not very filling in the long run. 2 hours later my companions were chowing down a kebab and sandwich respectively whereas I was filled up for quite some time. Just an observation…

blueberry pancakes with berry compote, citrus butter and maple syrup ($15.50)

Return factor? La Buvette is a convenient brunch locale for us eatfreaks and offers great people watching too. It is a good pick for basic brunch options but does not offer anything extraordinary in the way of culinary choices. Overall, a solid pick and a spot I would contemplate returning to on a sunny day or when picking up my drycleaning.

alfresco brunching

eatfreaks brunched here with company in December 2012