Cafe Laurent: Saturday Breakfast Done Right

I like breakfast—it is my favorite meal of the day. I think a good breakfast is a wake-me-up, a energy boost, something comforting and a great launching point for whatever the rest of the day or night holds.  The next level of breakfast enjoyment is to make sure you have a place to enjoy our unseasonably cool but perfect-for-outdoor-dining weather.  Last Saturday, I had exactly that experience at Cafe Laurent.

Originally opened on Overland Boulevard just south of Culver a little over five years ago, Cafe Laurent is blessed with French flair and a wonderful little patio.  Like the porridge for Little Red Ridinghood, this patio is just right—it's not too shady, with just enough sun. It's not too crowded, with ample seating and space between tables. In fact, my friend and I only waited 10 minutes for a late Saturday breakfast, a rare find here in foodie land. The patio is also not too loud, but with classics like Edith Piaf and Parisian-inspired jazz playing on outdoor speakers, you are generally unaware of the traffic on Overland, which is only steps away.  Perfect for a pair like us, or a table of four, the space lends itself to slowing down for a moment and enjoying your meal. 

The waitstaff was busy, but not overwhelmed. If you asked for a few minutes to consider your order as we did, they actually left us to casually come to a decision before returning.  Attentive but not hovering, the staff was pleasant and kind.  It was definitely a good environment for breakfast. 

When we perused the menu, we saw a bounty of choices, including omelettes, crepes, classic French toast, pancakes, and waffles.  We, however, were both interested in variations of their Eggs Benedict.  My friend ordered the traditional with Canadian bacon and I opted for the Benedict with smoked salmon.  The Laurent Benedict starts with a toasted, buttery croissant, then your meat item of choice, then a medium poached egg topped with a hollandaise sauce that nicely balanced the delicate flavors without being overwhelmingly rich and creamy.  Both the Canadian bacon and the smoked salmon added just the right amount of savory and salt to the dish, providing a good overall balance. Finally, the best potatoes gratin I’ve had outside of a fancy restaurant came on the side. 

While the portion sizes are nothing to scoff at, the dishes also were not so large that you left stuffed to your gills. So next time you are looking for a good morning breakfast or brunch, stop by Cafe Laurent.  As for me, I think one of their wonderful looking crepes is next on my list.

Cafe Laurent is at 4243 Overland Avenue next to Veterans Memorial Park.

*Know of other Culver City breakfast hot spots? Nominate them in the comments.