Bru's Wiffle: waffles reloaded

Aliza AbarbanelStaff WriterGenerally, waffles are associated with sleepy Sunday breakfasts, sausages and orange juice. However, new restaurant Bru’s Wiffle (2408 Wilshire Blvd.) is challenging the waffle stereotype head-on with its eclectic menu of gourmet waffle fare. Specialty favorites include the classic “dessert Belgian-style waffle,” pizza waffles, chicken curry waffles, and even meatball marinara-stuffed waffles. These gourmet takes on menu classics all point to one conclusion: this isn’t your average eatery.Bru’s Wiffle has mastered the art of balancing quirkiness with class; from decor to menu, everything walks the fine line between intriguing and going too far. The atmosphere is light and fun, and everything from the miniature bottles of ketchup and mustard to the massive jar of Nutella perched above the counter creates a delightfully eccentric mood.Foodies, rejoice. Toppings for various waffles include dried cranberries, sugary hunks of coconut and the delightful ambrosia that isNutella, while the house specialty beverages include freshly made watermelon, strawberry and ginger lemonade. Sweet and homemade, the lemonade is just the thing to wash down waffle-centric dishes.Be sure to order the waffle sliders — these bite-sized burgers on mini-waffle buns are flavorful and savory, and the new taste of a waffle bun instead of the typical hamburger bun adds a bonus layer of flavor. They come a bit pricey, at $8 for a plate of three, but their savory layers of flavor are well worth the price.For dessert, the simple joy of a plain waffle topped with powdered sugar, chopped almonds or chocolate chips is enough to satisfy even the most extreme sweet tooth. At $5, it’s the perfect price to share it with a friend.I had heard rumors of baked goods also being served, but the display cases are suspiciously empty. One can only attribute this to the restaurant being very new, and still in the process of fine-tuning, a fact that can easily be overlooked due to the quality of food.In the unlikely event that non-waffle lovers should stumble into Bru’s Wiffle, the chocolate mousse and variety of salads should placate them. However, it is the waffles you should come for; they push the the boundaries of countless culinary classics.aabarbanel@thesamohi.com