Review below, first a short, semi-related diatribe:
If you're an Early Bird, be a hetrosexual. That's what I've learned. This morning, I found myself on the southwestern outskirts of the Gay Ghetto. I decided that there must be somewhere nearby worth trying. My first stop was Bulldog Cafe, which has some great reviews. Unfortunately, at 7:28am, it's closed. Hmmf, I think, expecting that coffee is a morning kinda thing, and therefore, odd time of day to be closed. So, I check my Yelp iphone app for another neighbouring haunt. Ah "Daybreak Cafe". Now surely, you open early if your name is Daybreak. Nope, closed at 7:35am. Hmmf!
I saunter towards my tried and true favourite, Victoria Restaurant. On the way, I pass the Senator, which is open for breakfast at 7:30. But I tried that a few weeks ago, and found that while it's a great spot, it's not so great at that time of day, as all the plates, cups, counters, etc are near freezing at that time, and coffee and food both cool down too quickly.
So, it's onward to Victoria Restaurant, where I've been a faithful customer for many years. Peameal bacon, which is often overcooked or god forbid, steamed, is done perfectly every time at Victoria. Eggs must be jumbo sized. Home fried potatoes are always well browned and never meally. The coffee is fresh, hot and plentiful. Service is always fast and friendly. The place is never too warm nor too cold, there's never a radio that's too loud, there's no shouting from the kitchen, the tables are never tippy or unclean. Despite the dated decor and aged wall-mounted menu, this place is maintains high standards in every sense of the word.
At lunch, the place is hopping. Grilled cheese and fries is a perfect winter comfort lunch. Club sandwich has no surprises nor disappointments.
In short, Victoria Restaurant is a superb little cafe.