Yay, they have fadge. What is fadge you ask? Irish fadge, also known as a potato scone among Scottish folk (and at the Shine Cafe), is a breakfast treat that I thought only my mother made. I was very excited to see it on the menu at the Shine Cafe.

As recent recipient of accolades from another Victoria reviewer, we decided to actually stop the car at the Stadacona centre (at Oak Bay Junction) to see what all the hubbub was about. It was certainly very busy on this, a Saturday morning. The queue however, was managed exceptionally well and it didn't appear that anyone was waiting very long for a table. Similarly, we were delighted to see three servers working in this small restaurant, ensuring the efficient customer turnover. Our server was even able to comment on the menu in an intelligent way - wow!

Patty had the Spanish omelette served with toast and the potato scones. A little bit spicy, Patty was pleased to see the fillings had been treated with care and the omelette executed in a professional manner. I had the Cajun Chicken Benny (unfortunately, there are no huevos rancheros on the menu). Fresh ingredients: chicken breast, salsa and banana peppers, topped with hollandaise, I was completely satisfied with the quality of the food. The hollandaise was fresh, albeit a little thick for my taste - a good hollandaise is certainly an indicator of a good kitchen.

Breakfast prices ranged from $6-10 and our bill for the two of us with beverages was $24. The service was good, the food fresh and the atmosphere comfortable - what more can you ask for in a breakfast place. Open only for breakfast and lunch, the Shine Cafe also has a shorter lunch menu, mostly sandwiches and burgers.

Value of Food: 8/10

Quality of Food: 8/10

Service: 8/10 (above average for a breakfast place)

Ambiance: 7/10

 Reviewed: October 8, 2005