REVIEW | Café Boulud - prix fixe Sunday brunch at Toronto's Four Seasons Hotel

The prestigious Four Seasons Hotel opened its doors in October 2012 but we still haven't dined there!  Thought it was about time to change this so, last Sunday, my girlfriends and I met for some long overdue Brunch at the Café Boulud inside the hotel.

Upon our arrival, the hostess immediately took our coats for coat check and seated us on a comfortable couch with a beautiful glass table.  It wasn't long until they offered us a coffee or tea, and of course I had to get my late morning cup of java.  Couldn't help but to get a mimosa later as well!

Looking around the space, I noticed that tables were set up with a good distance between each group, which I appreciated.  It was a busy time as many families and friends were gathered for brunch so it's nice that each group had their privacy.

Café Boulud offers a prix fixe two-course brunch menu, which also includes coffee, tea or fresh fruit juice - all for $38 per person.  Each course features 5-6 choices so you're bound to find a few things that will appease your appetite.  Here's what we indulged in:

First Course

Charcuterie & Cheese Board with chefs selection of cured meats pâté and artisanal cheeses. There were various meats and cheeses, dijon mustard, olives and a pickle.  All were tasty and good to nibble on together before the second courses arrived.

Viennoiserie Basket with chef’s selection of house-made croissant and danish with fresh berries. This was very fresh and perfect to start off your day.  Also, enjoyed the fluffy, buttery pastries.

Preserved Quince Tartine.  The spread was sweet and creamy and quince, refreshing. It would have been better if it was less on the sweet side though.

Second Course

Lemon Ricotta Hotcakes with spiced cherries, Ontario maple syrup and whipped cream.  The hotcakes were sweet enough that we thought it was fine without the extra maple syrup on the side.  Other than that, the soft and fluffy hotcakes were pretty delectable!

Farm Egg Carbonara with housemade pepper bacon, poached egg and parmesan.  Seems like a simple enough dish but there was a lot going on with the flavours.  The savoury pepper bacon and creamy sauce was balanced out by the perfectly poached egg.  But, had to make sure you have a bite of bacon with the fettuccine or it could get too salty.

Steak & Eggs with over easy farm eggs, hanger steak, grilled tomato and béarnaise sauce. Steak was tender and seasoned well to go with the potatoes and tomato. Really enjoyed this with the eggs over easy.

If you're looking for a trendy yet quiet and delicious brunch spot in Toronto, I'd recommend that you give Café Boulud a try.  You will not only enjoy their brunch menu with a twist, you will also feel comfortable and welcomed by the attentive staff.