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| - In addition to a bewildering array of Eastern European ingredients, deli items, and prepared foods, the Emporium serves up a refreshingly different selection of Czech brunch dishes in its small dining area -- a welcome alternative to two-egg breakfasts, waffles, and omelettes.
My recent breakfast here was one of the most memorable meals I've had in Toronto in quite some time. I wouldn't describe me as a breakfast fan, since I find that most affordable brunch places are much of a much, but the Emporium sets itself apart with its varied menu, pleasant service, and careful execution, all at a very reasonable price.
The Czech-break, a mix of kielbasa, bread dumpling, and eggs, was lightly seasoned and, despite its meat-and-starch base, not stomach-leadening. The kielbasa was delicious and the chunks of bread dumpling were the right texture, neither chewy nor gluey.
My favourite, though, was the palacinky (crepe) stuffed with fruit and topped with yogurt and blueberry compote. Very much on the lighter side of crepe dishes, and a far cry from the typical sweet-on-sweet combo of syrupy fruit topping smothered in whipped cream. The combination of tart yogurt and pleasant natural sweetness of the fresh fruit was refreshing.
Our server was friendly, funny, polite, and swift. I really couldn't have asked for a better experience and it is nice to see an established restaurant that is still putting in a strong effort to please and attract new customers. Well done! I can't wait to try their lunches and prepared deli items.
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