Ladurée Yorkdale: The vibe
Having brunch and mimosas inside of a shopping mall doesn't sound like the most enticing experience, but Yorkdale Shopping Centre is as high-end as they come and Ladurée more than matches that vibe. The boutique and afternoon tea salon is primped and polished from head to toe, with a beautiful Tiffany-blue facade that makes it look like its own little house, but in the mall.
Inside, the whole shop is lathered in soft pink with gold detailing, while wainscotting on the ceiling and a sparkling chandelier set the oh-so-cute scene. It feels fancy and French, but playful touches like a neon "macarons" sign keep the atmosphere youthful and fun. It's the kind of place where I would bring my gal pals or my mom and squeal over the latest tea (literally).
Ladurée Yorkdale gets busy on the weekends, but it still feels like a world away from the shopping centre — unless of course you sit by the window and indulge in some prime people watching.
Ladurée Yorkdale: The menu
Brunch at Ladurée Yorkdale is a millennial's dream come true: They have three different kinds of avocado toast on the menu. I opted for the salmon version which was presented so beautifully, I almost didn't want to eat it. Perfect slices of creamy avocado came fanned over a toasted slice of brioche and topped with three rolls of delicate smoked salmon. It was light, delicious and dainty — the perfect brunch to fill you up without feeling bloated or heavy after.
The succinct menu also features a few different styles of French toast, croque-monsieurs and omelettes. All of the brunch options are on the lighter side, compared to more hearty, stuff-your-face brunch spots. But you'll want to save room for their famous macarons anyways. A dozen different flavours of the delicate desserts range from creamy vanilla and Marie-Antoinette Tea to the floral rose and fruity raspberry.
Afternoon tea at Ladurée Yorkdale is an equally adorable affair, that includes macarons, finger sandwiches, sweet and savoury tartlettes and other treats piled on a tiered cake stand.
Ladurée Yorkdale: The drinks
When it comes to brunch, mimosas are the way to my heart, but Ladurée also offers house cocktails and champagne by the glass or bottle if you're really feeling fancy. A few different mocktail options let non-imbibers get in on the fun, too. Their tea collection ranges from classics to gourmet teas and can be ordered on their own, or as part of the afternoon tea service. They serve espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, too.
Brunch and cocktails for two: around $75 before tax and tip.
