French Toast Fantasy: A Brunch Guide

By: Carolyn Hall | December 16, 2024
French toast with berries

French toast is the ultimate breakfast indulgence—a dish that takes simple bread and transforms it into a golden, custardy delight. Whether topped with fresh fruit, drizzled with syrup, or dusted with powdered sugar, this breakfast staple is reimagined in countless ways across Metro Detroit. Here are some must-visit spots where you can savor the best French toast creations in the area…

AVENUE BRUNCH HOUSE

22075 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn

Avenue Brunch House is all about delivering bold flavors and Instagram-worthy presentations in this industrial-style spot. On their menu, they have a variety of sweet options, that you can get made any way you’d like – pancakes, waffles, or my favorite, French toast. This Sugar Freaks menu section includes decadent options like Peach Cobbler, Candied Walnut Apple Crumble, or Cap’N Crunch, with deep-fried Texas toast, Cap’N Crunch cereal, vanilla ice cream, and berry coulis to top. Any of the choices pair great with the Southern-style grits, French fries with Caveman Sauce, or jalapeño cheddar beef sausage for a more savory accompaniment. The inviting interior and friendly service make it a must-visit for anyone in the Metro Detroit area.

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ROCHESTER BRUNCH HOUSE

301 Walnut Boulevard, Rochester

Located in the heart of downtown Rochester, Rochester Brunch House has earned a reputation for its elegant take on brunch classics. Their Fruit Mascarpone Stuffed French Toast is a crowd favorite, featuring thick slices of bread soaked in a rich custard, grilled to perfection, and served with your choice of fruit (strawberry, blueberry, or banana). Another excellent choice is the Banana Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast, topped with delightful whipped cream. Pair with a side of breakfast potatoes, corned beef hash, or granola with fresh fruit, and you’ve got a delightful brunch experience on your hands. The chic ambiance and delicious beverages make it a destination for weekend brunch enthusiasts.

SHINE CAFE

6024 Rochester Road, Troy

Tucked away in Troy, Shine Cafe is a cozy spot that’s perfect for breakfast and lunch. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant menu, the French toast here is as delightful as the space itself. Options include Cookie Dough (with vanilla buttercream, chocolate, and vanilla sauce) and Banana Split (bananas, strawberries, berry compote, pecans, and chocolate and raspberry sauces) to Monte Cristo and Double Trouble (cookie dough, Oreos, and Nutella). “From decadent French toast and classic eggs Benedict to hearty burgers and refreshing day drinks, we’ve got something for everyone,” shares the Shine Cafe team. Whether you opt for a simple classic or one of their inventive takes, you’ll leave with a smile and a full stomach.

french toast from shine cafe
Photo courtesy of Shine Cafe

THE HUDSON CAFE

1241 Woodward Avenue, Detroit

17101 Haggerty Road, Northville

700 West Big Beaver Road, Troy

The Hudson Cafe serves up French toast that is anything but ordinary. Their Vanilla Mascarpone version is oat-crusted and topped with fresh berries, vanilla mascarpone cream, and brown sugar, while the Strawberry Shortcake variety is coated with graham cracker and stuffed with strawberries and cream cheese frosting. The Apple Walnut Stuffed French toast is alternatively made with cinnamon raisin bread and is covered in apple flambé, walnuts, and stuffed with cream cheese frosting. Other great French toast choices include Very Berry, Monte Cristo, S’more, or Churro French toast sticks with caramel or Nutella to dip. The Hudson Cafe also has some great sides to pair with your breakfast, ranging from housemade corned beef hash and salmon croquettes to sweet potato fries and cheesy grits. The bright, inviting spaces make it a go-to for brunch lovers across Metro Detroit.

THE BRUNCH BAR

90 East Tienken Road, Rochester Hills

The Brunch Bar takes French toast to new heights. Their menu offers playful and indulgent variations, including a Banana Bread option, which takes house-made banana bread and tops it with bananas, walnuts, and caramel, or Samoa French toast, stuffing Brioche with cream cheese frosting and coating it in coconut flakes, before being topped with toasted coconut, caramel, and chocolate drizzle. The Fat Elvis version combines Nutella, peanut butter, and bacon for a sweet and savory experience. Paired with freshly squeezed orange juice, a brunch cocktail, or a side like dressed greens or fresh biscuits, The Brunch Bar offers an excellent selection to satisfy your brunch cravings and fuel your morning adventures. 

This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on November 8, 2023.

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