SubscribeBREAKFAST September 1, 2007
A few weeks ago, after stumbling out of Toaster onto Laurier after a less than satisfying breakfast (http://www.montrealfoodie.com/reviews-and-opinion/le-toaster.html) I was seized with a deep pang of regret. It wasn’t just what I had for breakfast (which I did regret) but rather that we walked right in front of Truffert to get back to the car. When I stopped to look at the brunch menu I knew that this is where I should have eaten.
Fast forward a few weeks and the JJ and I took our seats at the back of this cool, modern bistro: deep reds contrasted by creams, greys and light wood with sunlight pouring in through the open windows. I have heard and read great things about the dinner menu (and especially the desserts) and, while breakfast is a more humble meal than lunch or dinner, was ready to be impressed. I was not disappointed.
A variant on the croque monsieur that looks a lot more like a variant on eggs benedict, a poached egg with bacon and melted cheese toasted on country bread and smothered in sauce Mornay, was excellent and accompanied by a light salad. The JJ’s poached eggs with smoked salmon “maison”, hashbrowns with cheese and onion (delicious) and a side of fruit and toast was also right on the money. The service was friendly and while it came to $32 with tip, coffee and a bowl of café au lait, the price did not strike me as outlandish. We ate a comparative breakfast at Spice Safar the next morning which came to $36 with no café au lait and very sloppy food (overcooked eggs and dense overcooked rosti). While the service is friendly at Spice Safar it is not very professional and my initial enthusiasm for this breakfast joint has now been fully shattered.
Spice Safar is dead. Long live Truffert! And, oh yeah, I will definitely make it a point to return for a full dinner.
Rating: Four star breakfast
Truffert Bistro de Christophe
1481 Laurier E.
514.590.0987
Completely opposite experiences to yours. SpiceSafer made good when I pointed out that certain dipping sauces were not provided and Bistro Truffert took back a frittat with a hair in it and returned with the same frittata later, just warmer. No appologies, no new frittata, nothing! Bistro Truffert — never again.