Chococrepe
Chococrepe is Queen and Bathurst's newest destination for crepes, crepes and basically, crepes. Did I mention crepes? Okay, they serve a bit more than just the delectable wispy thin pancakes, but don't expect a lot more. Brought to you by a husband and wife team, one part graphic designer, and one part self-taught pastry chef, Dewey Truong and wife Kim decided that Toronto was under-indexing in this culinary gem that's widely celebrated in Europe and Montreal as a sandwich substitute. Crepes aren't just for dessert and they are on a mission to prove it.
Taking over the old Modrobes store at Queen and Markham at the end of 2011, Chococrepe is a cheerful fusion of modern mixed with traditional. Ornate chandeliers and picture frames amp up the clever design of bright blues and commanding surreal art. Tables are flanked by their trademark blue chairs and two front tables offer excellent (and often equally surreal) views of Queen Street.
While teetotallers will be satisfied by the drink menu, those looking to tip a few should wait to quaff their thirst. Chocofiends take note; this is one of the city's finest hot chocolates. They make 12 different varieties of gourmet hot chocolate using premium Valrhona and customize the drinks to suit each customer's sweet tooth (milk vs. cream, dark vs. milk chocolate).
We're tempted to the dark side and try the traditional hot chocolate made with milk ($5.95). Rich without giving us a toothache, the Valrhona chocolate is intense and the portion size is large enough to ensure we have high blood sugar for the next 3 hours minimum.
Next, the Pear Salad ($12.75) offers an excellent respite. Tender freshly cut Bosc pears frame a platter packed of olive oil coated arugula, crushed and toasted almonds and creamy and gloriously sublime salty goat cheese. Perched on top is (their take on croutons) a drizzled pattern of crepe batter. The presentation is a good match to the flavour. Both are equally stunning. I would return if even just for this salad.
Disappointed and dejected after finding that the Pulled Pork ($9.25) crepe is sold out, we opt for the Breakfast crepe ($8.50) instead. Cheddar cheese holds the shaved ham and eggs together, and maple syrup offers another chance for my insulin to spike. A small smattering of mixed greens presents a nice balance in competing textures and gets us closer to that 5-10 a day rule.
The Chipotle Chicken ($9.25 - top photo) is a favourite here and comes packed with shredded chicken, diced red pepper, mozzarella and (woot!) more arugula drenched in a slightly sweet and spicy chipotle mayo. A little too saucy for my tastes, but otherwise I can see why this is a popular choice. It comes flanked by the same mixed greens which loses it a few points for originality.
The Nutella dessert crepe ($7.75, plus $1 for extra toppings) is served with a do-it-yourself mini pot of creme Anglais for drenching the plate, or just for drinking. It is that delectable. The crepes here are just the perfect thinness which results in the ingredients taking centre stage. Simple nutella channels some feel good childhood memories and the bananas and strawberries are fresh and make great palate cleansers.
Chococrepe is positively brimming with charming details like embossed custom logoed napkin holders. Gluten free crepes are right on cue with current food trends. Service isn't rushed. In fact it's a bit slow at times but it all adds to the European flair, right?
Chococrepe takes reservations. It is not wheelchair accessible.