Fresh ingredients power French 50 to the top of the 2023 Western Wheel Readers' Choice Awards.
The restaurant and bakery is the winner of the Breakfast/Brunch category in this year's edition of the awards. French 50 also received a trio of third place nods — Best Patio, Romantic Restaurant and Bakery.
“It's a really nice accolade from the community,” co-owner Brad Labrenz said of the recognition.
Building community is a cornerstone of the philosophy that guides French 50.
“The fact that the community supported us that way, and has recognized us, is really rewarding," Lorenz said.
The bakery and restaurant strives to offer simple, fresh food, co-owner Marie-Luce Denis said, and people like the fact that the breakfast offerings are made in-house.
Even the hollandaise is made on location, Labrenz said.
“And it's different, because it's made in-house,” he said.
Denis said they are thankful to have been among the nominees for awards.
“It's all these small little businesses, and everyone works really hard at their business,” she said. “We're just honoured to be part of that community now.”
French 50 opened at its current location earlier this year, following the renovation of a historic house on Elma Street.
"We've taken a house that was built in 1910, which is actually one of the two Lineham houses that were here, and we've brought it back to life," Labrenz said.
The co-owners had a vision of what they wanted to create there, and people are enjoying it, Denis said.
“And that's what we wanted, so we're very honoured by all of it,” she added.
The business is at home among the other small, local businesses in the area, Labrenz said.
“I think when you are like that, you definitely are able to make a connection to the community.” he said.
French 50 is closed Monday and Tuesday. Beyond a breakfast and brunch menu, it offers artisan pizza beginning at 5 p.m.
