The top 5 brunch restaurants on the Danforth

Brunch restaurants on the Danforth are scattered all along the east-end corridor - from Broadview and the heart of Greektown to Woodbine and the burgeoning East Danforth neighbourhood. These eateries elevate
traditional brunch items through their use of quality ingredients and their ability to add a
unique flare to old favourites.

Here are my picks for the top brunch restaurants on the Danforth.

The Wren
The Wren's menu takes its inspiration from Southwestern comfort food and Mexican cuisine. Popular brunch items include the Huevos Tostadas ($11 or $14.50 with chicken tinga) and the Brisket Hash served with cornbread ($13). Wash it all down with a mimosa ($8) or a Caesar with an odd price tag ($7.08).

Melanie's Bistro
The brunch menu at Melanie's boasts plenty of seafood options. Get the Newfoundland Breakfast Special ($14) which comes with pan-friend cod cakes, poached eggs, herbed hollandaise and toast. While there's classic eggs benny on offer, there's also a version with panko-crusted crab cakes ($15).

Hollandaise Diner
If you're after customizable brunch, look no further than Hollandaise Diner. With the "Build A Benny" option (starting at $11.95), you can replace the classic English-Muffin base with grilled tomato, baked polenta, grilled cheese, bitter greens or even meatloaf. There are eight kinds of toppings and four different takes on the traditional dish.

Cafe Fiorentina
The eggs benny ($15) at Cafe Fiorentina features two farm-fresh duck eggs and super-tender beef tongue but is also sometimes served with lobster, pastrami, rabbit and duck confit.

Patisserie La Cigogne
Owner-chef Thierry Schmitt opened the Danforth outpost of Patisserie La Cigogne following the success of his original operation on Bayview Avenue. Both locations offer all-day breakfast and brunch, seven days a week. A popular item is the Croque Madam, which consists of brioche layered with ham and cheese and topped with a fried egg ($9.50).

What did I miss? Add your suggestions for the top brunch spots on the Danforth in the
comments. Photo of Hollandaise Diner.