TOAST is a new eatery in Carlsbad, just off the 5 freeway and steps from the beach, is the perfect (and much-needed) brunch addition to North County. With a varied menu that offers a plethora of choices, any brunch fan will be happy. We were no exception!
I typically gravitate toward #TeamSweet when it comes to breakfast, while Trevor is 100% #TeamSavory. TOAST has plenty to satiate both. We started with a signature dish: coconut pistachio kanafee, a Middle Eastern/Lebanese dish that is made from phyllo – the same dough used to make baklava. It’s a flaky, buttery, light crust atop a piece of Brioche bread, and Chef Alfie has added his own signature spin to it: it’s covered in flaked coconut and chopped pistachios, stuffed with ricotta cheese, and drizzled in honey blossom syrup. Seriously the most unique, and delicious, thing I have ever eaten, and delightfully perfect for a sweet, but not overpoweringly so, breakfast.
Because we didn’t realize how big the kanafee would be, we each ordered a separate dish as well! My Elvis Presley French toast – thick Brioche bread stuffed with peanut butter, honey, and banana – was a decadent, filling, and glorious indulgence of carbs. Meanwhile, Trevor is on a mission to try every Eggs Benedict in San Diego, so he had the Southern Fried Chicken Benny: fried chicken and poached eggs served atop cheddar cornbread, with garlic spinach, bechamel, and scallions.
Featuring a full bar, TOAST also offers boozy brunch faves like mimosas, Bloody Marys, and bellinis, but their signature cocktail menu – running the gamut of spiked coffee drinks, champagne cocktails, and micheladas – is more exciting. I loved my Lavender Lady, with gin, champagne, and lavender cordial, while Trevor’s Irish Coffee (strangely served in glass), was both strong and rich.
All in all, TOAST is a complete delight. With delicious dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and super friendly service, it’s definitely going to become our new weekend brunch go-to. The next time you’re in San Diego, definitely add this to the food itinerary.
More info: https://toastgastrobrunch.com/