Enter this little-bitty establishment on any morning or afternoon and you'll find artists, lawyers, accountants, hairdressers, cops, and carpenters grazing on sandwiches, omelettes, eggs Benedict, and apple pancakes - this is where the salt of the earth fill up on home-style fare. The dishes aren't dripping with fake butter, the eggs come up just the way you ordered them, and the hot home-style soup could pretty much save your life on a wintry Monday.

Formerly inhabited by XXX Diner - for a few days - this storefront spot is a warm, relaxing retreat, painted the very earth tones and exposed brick walls that was designed to be XXX. Not much changed, not even the furniture, and it never really matters, as not many had a chance to see it in that likeness.

This friendly breakfast and lunch spot is still a refreshingly non-corporate (read not Starbucks) operation. Owners Tonya Reid and Johan Maes decided they wanted to open a restaurant that was back-to-basics and totally hands-on. To that end, Reid works the counter and tables and Maes prepares all the food. And they are ever-present, meeting guests at the door and visiting tables to make sure everyone is being taken care of.

The space is warm and bright with light brick walls, light wood tables and retro banquettes, and a small breakfast counter with stools. Although a few spirited touches of rustic roadside decor adorn the walls, the overall aesthetic is that of, well, a dilapidated little shanty. But don’t let that put you off. Early morning visitors are greeted with fresh coffee and a selection of pastries - choices typically include scones, muffins and cookies.

The lunch menu changes daily, based on demand and availability of fresh ingredients. Choices include the toasted salmon salad sandwich, an apple and cheddar sandwich, traditional breakfast fare - eggs Benedict, and what they call the “Hungry Gal’s Breakfast”. All sandwiches are served with a daily house-made soup - perhaps cream of mushroom or split pea. Most everything is made from scratch, and the duo uses organic ingredients when possible.

Chef Maes who previously cooked at Zola and The Windsor Arms, has created a straightforward local café menu with a predilection toward coffee shop fare. But the shop could go further; there are few items to choose from and Maes has the potential to produce more than what’s presently being offered. But that will come, as currently Le Petit Dejeuner is a daytime affair, closing daily at 4:00 pm.

In the meantime, an enticing assortment of luncheonette-style fare awaits, a welcome incentive to linger a bit longer before facing the harsh tints of the real world. - D.E.


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Reader Reviews

perfect crunch
Jan 31, 2003
John Declerq, Toronto
I thought that the LPD offers a very unique atmosphere. Perfect for an early morning meeting or get togethe with close friends or family. They ofer the bes Chai Latte in Town and the Toast Champignon is to die for. Try the Brussel Style Waffle with a perfect crunch. True, the menu isn't huge but at least all is fresh and you can see it being prepared. Keep it going and support this place as we need more of these individuals in Toronto. Thanks,
John Declerq


John Declerq Toronto
I thought that the LPD offers a very unique atmosphere. Perfect for an early morning meeting or get togethe with close friends or family. They ofer the bes Chai Latte in Town and the Toast Champignon is to die for. Try the Brussel Style Waffle with a perfect crunch. True, the menu isn't huge but at least all is fresh and you can see it being prepared. Keep it going and support this place as we need more of these individuals in Toronto. Thanks,


just-rolled-outta-bed patrons
BP617, Toronto
December 15, 2002
So I popped in here on a Sunday morning for a quick brunch. Much to my delight-no line-up at 12 noon. Let's start with the good...excellent interior. Felt like i was back home in Soho NYC. Small space but cozy and funky- even a bit grungy. Perfect ambiance to match its grungy just-rolled-outta-bed patrons. Excellent addition to strip of King East restaurant scene. Let's get to the bad- servers all wore a sweet smile and eager to please, about 30 minutes after seating us. The wait was unbearable. "Anyone gonna get us some coffee here?" Menu was terribly limited, although my toast arrived pre-buttered (nice touch). My advice: servers need to be more attentive, broaden out the menu with some traditional diner fare, and you've got yourself a real gem on King East.


minimal menu
Dan Kiel, Toronto, ON
December 10, 2002
Very cute. Our only disappointment was the minimal menu options . Even as a café, there should be a few additional choices. That failing aside, service was rather good on all our visits. We'll be back


LPD is a STAR!!
KOMRADE, Toronto
Please ignore the other two reviews. They know not of what they speak...
LPD was designed to be a minimalist eatery, with basic yet astonishingly tasty goods provided at very reasonable prices. Grass roots of food, and that is what they are, take it or leave it... They usually have only one server, one cook, but hey, go to LPD to relax, chat, and dwell on your hangover but don't expect corporate efficiency, its NOT WHAT THEY DO!!
Oh, and the food? EVERYTHING on the menu, limited as it is - but check out the equipment in the kitchen and you'll understand - is FANTASTIC, and sumptuous!
-KOMRADE K