Lakeside Café quietly opened in Encino a few weeks ago in the spot best known for housing El Torito. The café sits on a good-sized edge of the Los Encinos State Historic Park with rustic seating nestled under trees with a waterfront view (ducks included!), outdoor front and back patios, extensive indoor seating, a pastry counter and a back bar area. (However, they are awaiting a liquor license.)

As with most any restaurant in the soft-opening stage, patience is necessary as servers are in training. The ambitious menu is also a work-in-progress as various dishes are being tested, names of dishes are being changed, and a children's menu is being developed. Lakeside Cafe offers an all-day breakfast featuring a selection of Benedicts, eggs and omelets, as well as pancake and French toast variations with such decadent ingredients as Nutella, marshmallow and dulce de leche. Lunch and dinner options include pasta, salads, burgers and sandwiches. Portions are all generous and nicely presented. I can say that breakfast potatoes are worth the splurge and the caprese eggs Benedict was very tasty, except for being a tad cold. Entrees range from $9 to $16.

Lakeside Cafe has the potential to be a unique respite to kick back outside on a sunny day. In fact, it has already gathered quite a crowd. I definitely look forward to trying it again when the loose ends are tightened up.

Metered parking and valet available on La Maida Street. 16817 Ventura Blvd., Encino, 818-616-2430.

This sandwich was called corned beef, salt beef and brisket depending on the menu.  

Salmon club 

Pastry counter is at the front of the restaurant.

Dine by the pond.

Entrance to Los Encinos Historical Park.

Exterior of restaurant on Ventura Blvd. Park wth the valet on La Maida or find metered parking.