A local culinary coronavirus casualty was Bruxie, which closed all its locations in mid-March, including its original location in Old Towne Orange.
Bold, fun and unconventional, Bruxie (aka the Bold Fold) launched in November 2010 serving sandwiches and desserts packed inside a folded waffle.
The brand veered from its original menu a few years ago to focus on chicken and waffles, a decision that gained a lot of press but left some diners (including me) longing for more of what made the brand famous in the first place.
Good news for Bruxie fans—the Old Towne Orange location opened in late September with a renewed menu that harkens back to the brand’s origins yet retains some chicken and waffles dishes for those that need them. Bruxie Brea reopened a week later.
“The introduction of Gourmet Waffle Sandwiches created immediate excitement and sensation,” commented Scott Grinstead, CEO of Bruxie, when announcing the reopening. “Bruxie created a buzz in social media and talk shows. More importantly it gained lots of loyal customers. That’s the excitement that we’re hoping to create as we take the concept back to its roots by bringing back menu favorites and the Old Towne Orange charm that has always defined Bruxie.”
Bruxie’s return comes courtesy of an investor group led by Gordon Miles, the founder and chairman of Bubba Gump Shrimp Company Restaurants.
After making its debut ten years ago, Bruxie was named one of Nation’s Restaurant News’ “Top 50 Breakout Brands” and then gained buzz by adding fried chicken and waffle sandwiches. After being named one of 20 “Best Fried Chicken Places in America” by USA Today, Bruxie added more chicken options.
Now, the focus is back on the authentic Belgian waffle sandwiches.
“We’ve always been considered the ultimate comfort food and we’re excited to bring back fan favorites such as BBQ Pulled Pork and Braised Beef Short Rib Waffle Sandwiches as throwback specials,” stated Chef Kelly Mullarney, a co-founder of Bruxie. “Additionally, guests will be able to bite into a little nostalgia as we bring back original Bruxie favorites like Hot Pastrami & Swiss and Lemon Cream & Berries.”
Once I learned that Bruxie was reopening, I made a point of having lunch at the Old Towne location a couple of days after they reopened. I ordered one of my original favorites: Green Eggs and Ham with two large eggs over hard, sliced ham, melted cheddar, mayo and arugula pesto, served between a waffle.
All it took was one bite to put a smile on my face. Yes, as good as I remember. I also ordered the lemon cream and berries—a sweet ending to a nostalgic lunch.
The Bruxie staff are out front as always, helping with orders, answering questions, and delivering food to hungry patrons.
Welcome back, Bruxie.
Bruxie in Old Towne Orange and Bruxie Brea are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bruxie Old Towne Orange, 292 N. Glassell St., Orange, (714) 633-3900, Bruxie.com. Bruxie Brea, 215 W. Birch St., Brea, (714) 255-1188, Bruxie.com.
