Bruxie is unlike any other restaurant: it offers a unique flavor experience with its gourmet waffle sandwiches and desserts. The main menu is split in half, with one side including their savory waffle meals, and the other side featuring their sweet treats, such as the Seasonal Crème Brulée and the “Bruxie S’mores”, a stack of Belgian chocolate, marshmallow, and Graham cracker folded into a waffle.

When I first heard of Bruxie and their peculiar list of specialty meals, I thought the whole concept was just odd – I hadn’t heard of too many people who would jump at the idea of snacking on things like smoked salmon and cream cheese inside a waffle. But willing to say I’d at least tried something off their menu, I headed with my family to their little stand in the Old Towne Orange circle.

As a huge fan of cheeseburgers, I instantly decided that the Bruxie Burger, which is a medium-cooked beef patty layered with tomato, lettuce, cheddar cheese and mayo – would be my entrée of choice. The combo came with their special waffle-cut fries and a drink. And although I’m not usually one to like milkshakes, I decided that since I was already being daring that evening, I might as well try a chocolate milkshake.

The results of this experimentation were surprising in a very positive way. The burger, which had been served inside a savory waffle, had a unique deliciousness to it that could only be described as the special flavor that Bruxie had been shooting for. Its complementary fries were a bit plain, but tasty enough with a bit of ketchup. And the milkshake, which had been made with Belgian chocolate and imported cream, was simply superb.

After all the heavenly taste, the experience did have its downsides. The restaurant, which could hardly be called a restaurant because of its very small size, didn’t offer indoor seating, so guests were left to stand or sit at outside booths and tables. It’s usually very crowded, and although this indicates how well-liked Bruxie has become over the past couple of years, it also demonstrates why the tiny restaurant needs to expand. On a sunny day, it isn’t too much of a bother to stand in line for a bit and then eat outside; on a day with gloomy weather, however, it’s more of a pain.

If you live in the OC area or if you’re just visiting, you should definitely give Bruxie a try. Its casual, friendly, and unique atmosphere makes it a great place for people of all ages to hang out and grab a meal or late-night snack . . . as long as it isn’t raining.