(tomdouglas.com/lola) – Downtown
How I heard of this place: My friend Lindsay first told me that the brunch at Lola was the best in town, to die for. I tried it about eighteen months ago when a friend wanted to take me out for my birthday, and haven’t been able to stay away.
Type of cuisine: Lola has a “Greek” spirit. Modern Mediterranean and North African riffs on local ingredients.
Ambiance: Modern boutique style – casual to the extent that you can walk in off the street and grab a nice lunch or dinner. Formal enough that you can take out-of-town visitors you want to make a good impression on. Somewhat dark interior with windows all around.
What I ordered: I have a few favorites at Lola, which are the things I order nearly every time I’m there. This time I tried to branch out, but was advised against it (by the waiter), so I went back to my staples – which apparently are the most popular. My staples are: the Greek omelette with broccoli, florina peppers, feta, bacon, toast ($16) or the Eggs benedict with house smoked berkshire ham, dill hollandaise ($16). The made to order doughnuts served with seasonal jam and vanilla mascarpone are to die for – warm and lightly dusted with cinnamon and sugar. mmm. There were four of us today, three of whom ordered the eggs benedict and one who branched out and got a stack of golden brown pancakes and pork-maple sausage, date butter, and spiced maple syrup ($16).
What I loved: the smashed garlic-fried potatoes are always a hit. This time they were a little too salty for my taste, but perfectly crisp around the edges and soft and flaky potato on the inside. The smoked ham and the light hollandaise on the eggs bene were wonderful and the touch of fresh dill atop each poached egg heavenly. The pancakes, though I had just one meager bite, were fluffy, prepared to the exact right consistency and paired so well with the vanilla mascarpone. One dining companion commented that they are some of the best pancakes served in a restaurant.
Why I loved it: I love Lola for several reasons. Before I forget, I should mention that they have a punch card for brunch/lunch (buy ten get one free), which always gives a place a thumbs up from me. That being said, I also love the booth seating that can be found throughout the entire restaurant, creating a cozy sense of home-quality dining. The staff is always pleasant and available, efficient and very helpful with honest recommendations! In fact one of the first times I went the waiter brought us a plate of doughnuts for free – as part of our “reunion” eating experience.
Cost: average ($14-$16 for a brunch dish, $8-$10 for something like granola or oats or a continental breakfast)