(bruxie.com) – Old Towne Orange, Orange County, California

How I heard of this place: Visiting my sister in So-Cal gives us so many reasons to find and enjoy cute, local culinary endeavors. Bruxie is one of them.

Type of cuisine: “Bruxie is a new take on The Sandwich, using a creative version of an authentic Belgian Waffle as the bread. The waffle is light, airy, crispy, yeasty and not sweet. Bruxie Waffles are paired with quality seasonal ingredients, offering both Savory choices like Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Prosciutto & Gruyere, and Hot Pastrami, as well as a variety of Sweet options such as our Seasonal Crème Brulee, Nutella & Banana and S’Mores! It’s great for breakfast  lunch  dinner dessert!”

Ambiance: An outdoor establishment, we were delightfully surprised to find ourselves walking through the residential streets of Orange – the only city in the state (maybe the country!) to have zoned commercial and residential on all of their blocks! – and happen upon this hoppin’ joint. We walked up to the order counter/kitchen, the only enclosed space of the restaurant, where a large chalkboard menu hung overhead.

After perusing the menu, placing our orders and obtaining our beverages, we made our way to the bar height tables and stools shaded under large umbrellas to take our seats and await the delivery of our baskets of goodness.

What I ordered: My sister stuck with her usual, The Cheesy Bruxie ($4.95) with Tillamook Cheddar and Gruyere, topped with the addition of arugula (her favorite!).

My husband made his decision from the Today’s Special board and enjoyed the Carolina BBQ Pork ($8.95) for slow-roasted pork with cheddar cheese, cider slaw, and house-made BBQ sauce.

In the mood for breakfast, after our six o’clock a.m. flight, I opted for the Bacon, Egg & Cheddar ($6.95), a rounded waffle stuffed with Tillamook Cheddar, mayo and applewood smoked bacon over two fried eggs.

We also purchased a Strawberry Lemonade to share.

What I loved: The tart sweetness of the strawberry lemonade was perfect for a warm morning brunch, while the moist yet crisp waffles completely and adequately satisfied. Each of our dishes, however similar in presentation, gave a burst of flavor in each cheesy and meaty bite. I might choose The Cheesy on my next visit, though.

Why I loved it: Outdoor seating at ten o’clock in the morning, while enjoying savor waffles with two of my favorite people in the world. Heaven.

Cost: Average ($4.95 – $9.95 per waffle sandwich)

Tags: Featured