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The ongoing egg shortage has posed significant challenges for many, particularly for those who rely on eggs in their daily meals and cooking. For instance, in Los Angeles, prices have surged to as high as $14 per dozen, transforming what was once a staple into a luxury food item.
In light of this crisis, one might wonder how an egg-centric establishment, such as the Gudetama Cafe in Buena Park, California, is managing. The cafe is themed around Gudetama, a character created by Sanrio, known for its lazy egg persona. With an array of Gudetama memorabilia displayed throughout the cafe, it’s reasonable to assume that the menu, heavily egg-focused, could be adversely impacted by the current egg supply issues.
Arriving at the Gudetama Cafe on a sunny Friday morning just before its opening time, I was greeted by stanchions indicating that long lines are common. Reports from the Los Angeles Times indicated that visitors faced wait times exceeding 12 hours on the cafe’s opening day. However, on this occasion, I found the entrance void of patrons and noticed a sign stating the cafe would open later than scheduled due to operational challenges, leading to a brief moment of concern over the impact of the egg shortage on the business.
As I awaited the new opening time, I observed several groups approaching the cafe only to leave upon seeing the notice. When the doors finally opened, I was first in line, eager to experience what the cafe had to offer.
The interior of the Gudetama Cafe is whimsical and vibrant, saturated with shades of yellow and playful Gudetama decor. The atmosphere captures the essence of Gudetama; from illustrations on the tables to larger-than-life figures and themed decorations, it immerses visitors in a unique experience.
The menu offers a variety of egg-infused sandwiches, with prices ranging from $13.50 to $18. I selected a katsu egg and cheese sandwich alongside a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, both priced at $16 and served with tater tots. Each sandwich featured a sunny-side up egg adorned with Gudetama’s iconic face.
Curious about the impact of the egg shortage on their operations, I inquired about any price adjustments or temporary closures. To my surprise, an employee reported that they hadn’t experienced any issues regarding supply, which contradicted my recent experience at a different venue that implemented an egg surcharge due to rising costs.
Despite initial skepticism regarding the food quality—often a concern in themed cafes—my expectations were pleasantly exceeded. The brioche bun was fresh and rich, while the eggs were perfectly cooked with vibrant, creamy yolks. The chicken katsu was satisfactory, and the bacon sandwich boasted a generous portion of thick, crispy bacon. Overall, these breakfast sandwiches rival typical cafes in Los Angeles regarding taste and value.
Additionally, I opted for a cream puff created in collaboration with Beard Papa’s, featuring a traditional vanilla bean filling. The dessert was cleverly designed to resemble an egg, complete with Gudetama branding on the topping. While enjoyable, it was the sandwiches that truly stood out during my visit.
By the conclusion of my meal, the cafe filled with a mix of families and friends, all enjoying the playful ambiance and capturing memories with the various Gudetama installations. Although not overly crowded, I anticipated busier weekends at peak hours.
In summary, my visit to the Gudetama Cafe was far better than expected. Despite the ongoing egg shortage, the establishment managed to maintain an ample supply of eggs for both culinary and decorative use. Service was efficient, and the dishes provided a delightful experience that brightened the mood amidst the backdrop of external economic pressures.
Source
www.eater.com