Yum, Mo:Le is a fairly new restaurant on the Victoria scene and after a half dozen or so visit over the past year; I’ve decided it’s my current favourite spot for brunch. Patty and I both agree that a restaurant that puts in the effort to come up with interesting brunch dishes is worth noting.

Located on lower Pandora St, Mo:Le, occupies one of the Old Town buildings featuring original brick walls, contributing a naturally cozy environment. The restaurant design is simple, contemporary art on the walls, basic chairs and booths; highlighted by large entry way windows and an equally large skylight. On my first few visits the power went out a few times during service, but they seem to have resolved that problem.

Normally, I’m not a fan of long menus, but Mo:Le successfully differentiates the dishes on the menu adequately to legitimise the 19 breakfast dishes (plus a la carte breakfast staples). The lunch menu (both served all day) is a little shorter, but is fairly extensive in its own right.

Today, I had the Huevos Rancheros ($11). Sure, not an inspired choice, but I am a connoisseur of the dish and for me it’s a good way to rate a restaurant.

I was impressed by their interpretation of this classic breakfast dish. I was delighted by the deep fried corn tortilla. While I’m not a fan of deep frying, in the case of tortillas it adds a lot of flavour. Instead of the standard refried beans, they used more of a red bean chilli. It was yummy, with a nice rich flavour that was complemented  by the house hot sauce (which wasn’t really hot, but had a great flavour). The eggs were cooked perfectly and topped with cilantro. The biggest surprise mind you was the side dish – a baked apple.  A little unusual, it was a good alternative to your regular hashbrowns.

Patty had the Born in France – French toast with a nectarine and cardamom compote, with whipped cream, fresh fruit and an add on of maple sausage ($9 + $1.50 for the sausage). He was pleased with his choice, adding that the seasoned fruit compote was as inventive,  as it was delicious. We also liked that they split the sausages during cooking so they were nice and crispy on the outside. Not a coffee drinker, Patty was pleased with the fresh squeezed OJ, at a reasonable price ($2.5).

The service was good, quick and efficient, with the correct amount of coffee refill service.

All in all, Mo:Le is one of my top picks for brunch in Victoria. The only turn-off for me, are the lineups on the weekend (that is, if the stars align and I’m not working all weekend…grumble, grumble).

 Value of Food: 8/10

Quality of Food:8/10

Service: 8/10

Ambiance: 7/10

Wine List: n/a

 Reviewed: August 7, 2005