The Hungry Pug Cafe in Kenora
204 2nd St S, Kenora, ON P9N 1G3, Canada
About
Locally and globally inspired breakfast/lunch/catering. Kenora"s best Vegan/GF/DF menu including fresh baking.
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Kindly staff and delicious brunch. Staff are very friendly, although still need waited for a while to dine in on Sunday. then they also introduce the specialist dishes for me. BTW the brunch options were also more than I had expected. :)
Lovely breakfast. Clean, cozy, friendly, delicious - everything you need. Meals are about $20 ea but big portions. Iced vanilla latte was delicious. Our French Toast eggs Benny and our Spinach Masala Omelette were very tasty. Lots of menu options and baked goods to go.
Absolutely fantastic breakfast place !!! I would give more than 5 stars The service is impeccable - the lady server was pleasant and friendly and super welcoming The food was decadent and generous portions ! Everything on the menu looked decadent but my stomach could only handle so much - I loved the intimate setting , I felt like I was at grandmas kitchen and that is so warm and welcoming - we will be back !
Great food, very friendly service and a cute town! We stopped by Kenora on a cross country roadtrip and enjoyed breakfast at 8 AM sharp here. They opened at 8 on the dot and were almost full by 9! The half eggs Benny is a good option, the Benny is scrumptious!! The hollandaise had good flavour but was a bit thick and in very short supply (extra hollandaise costing 3$ would make the meal the same price as a full Benny...) loved the tomato and the pemeal was cooked perfectly 👌 The waffle was AMAZING! and the maple syrup is clearly top notch, fresh fruit and service with a smile. Certainly a town and restaurant we will return to!
Very very busy place. Line up out the door when we left. Definitely worth the wait, food was incredible, everything is homemade!! Do not go here if you are in a rush. Wish we lived closer so we could try more menu items. This will be on our “have to visit again” list next trip to Kenora. Only complaint is their room temperature tap water.
Dropped by for a quick bite. The mushroom and brie benny was really good and hit the spot. Also got the tortilla omelette which was decent but nothing exceptional. It was a busy weekend so service was slow but the staff was friendly and polite. Overall a good experience!
So, I love eating here!! I’ve tried quite a few vegan items- 1.) Cinnamon roll- delicious and moist. (5/5) 2.) Tofu scramble- it’s amazing, especially the garlic brings everything together. (4/5) 3.) Steamed bao bun- it was a lunch special, and i loved it!! (4.5/5) 4.) French Toast- pretty good, even though I’m not a fan of it. The icing brings everything together. (3.5/5) 5.) Vegan Burrito- Delicious. Love the filling. I’d recommend eating with tomato salad on the side, as hash browns can make it quite heavy. (4.5/5) 6.) Vegan Benny- My favourite!! Love everything. (5/5) 7.) Chick ‘n’ Waffle (Seoul Style)- Waffle is so moist, and the chick ‘n’ and kimchi goes really together. (4.5/5) 5.) Pierogi- Was another special, it was the best!! I love how chef had vegan substitute for things, w/o taking away from the taste. (5/5) 6.) Caprese Toast- So herbal and light!! (4.5/5) 7.) Brownie- It’s a bit dry for my liking, but the icing makes it better. (3/5) 8.) Cupcakes- Have tried Blueberry and Kiwi flavour. Again, I find it a bit dry, and think flavour can be bit enhanced. (3.5/5) 9.) Smoothies- Love all three, blueberry lagoon is my fav. (4/5) 10.) Scones- No pictures, but it was my first time trying and I loved it!! (4.5/5)
The Hungry Pug is one of my favorite breakfast restaurants, and well worth a visit! Street parking only (and plug the meter even on Saturdays, because the City of Kenora is greedy.) It's not really accessible as there is a step and a tight turn with two doors to get in. That being said, I have seen a person in a wheelchair getting wrangled in by a burly helper. (There used to be a indoor ramp from the hotel next door but it's now a separate entity and not an option anymore.) There are restrooms in back as well. ➡️ Update: March 10, 2023 I checked the washrooms, and they were -as expected- spotless, spacious (if you can consider a washroom spacious) and very clean. I went back out and complimented the owner on the cleanliness. There is plenty of seating both 2 seaters and 4 to 6 seater tables. Service is prompt and the meals are very tasty. I like the chicken and waffles myself but it's all great. I have to compliment the Pug on the bakery goods they offer, fresh scones, cinnamon buns and peanut butter cookies to name a few, all fresh baked. The owner is a trained bakery chef. I wanted more scones to takeout afterwards, and he made a fresh batch and baked them up while I was having breakfast! That is great Kenora service. ➡️Update March 6, had a "naked" cinnamon bun, which is my term for an non-iced bun. Delicious The Pug is closed two days a week (Tuesday , Wednesday at present) and open in the mornings, so check first. I usually look the day before at the hours posted on a sign in the window. ➡️Update, see photo attached. It's located between the old Kenricia Hotel and Dinos Greek restaurant on Second Street. Did I mention it's really worth visiting? October 6 2024 update The placard enticed me to try Turkish eggs. Well, I did and the dish was, as always, delicious. I literally wiped the plate clean. Excellent service and well worth the wait for the meal.
great breakfast
It took a year to try out this little gem and so glad we got the chance. Come through on business every 2 weeks on the days they are closed and happened to be here on a Thursday this time. The service was friendly and prompt. The atmosphere was casual. We had the chicken pesto sandwich (on special) and an eggs Benedict. Both were made with quality ingredients and made with care. Side salads are often boring, but theirs had blueberries and strawberries and an awesome vinaigrette. Loved the home brewed iced tea, refreshing and not sweet. A filling and satisfying meal. Sad we cant come more often, but will any chance we get!
Outstanding food, really top of the range stuff. We had a little wait when we got there as it was quite a busy day, but its so worth it. If you have to wait to get a seat, do yourself a favour and just wait, dont go somewhere else. Weve been travelling through North America for three months and its the best breakfast weve had on the continent so far. Great coffee as well.
Grabbed a coffee and muffin here on the recommendation of the owner of the inn I was staying at in Kenora. I am glad I followed her advice, as both the coffee and muffin were good, while the person who served me was quite friendly.
Would give 6/5 stars if I could. Amazing breakfast and lunch options for vegans and non-vegans alike. Great service, this is our go-to spot every time we are in Kenora. Baked goods are always delicious and we always take some to bring home with us. Wish we had a Hungry Pug Cafe in our city.
It s pricey but very good
Great friendly service and a tasty breakfast.
Waited over almost 40mins for a BLT & Chicken waffle that was next to cold, the waitress although nice, seemed almost scared to talk.. didn t ask if we wanted more water refills or come around at all. Over-priced/ over-hyped.
The first healthy breakfast (for us Swiss) in days. The fruit platter consists exclusively of fresh fruits. You can also get scrambled eggs without bechamel sauce. Everything was very tasty and the service was very friendly and attentive.
Our waitress at dinner gave her recommendation for breakfast as The Hungry Pug almost before we could finish the question. And right she was. Delicious challah french toast and a classic egg/bacon/toast/hashbrowns breakfast. They also served great tea from a local tea store. Cute pictures of pugs on the walls. I also purchased a tote bag with an adorable Pug on it. I definitely recommend.
Loved this little gem. Unassuming atmosphere and food made from scratch! The chai tea was blended by the chef. Served by friendly staff and what s not to love!
Stopped in for lunch, the vegan falafel wrap was fantastic! My partner had the summer bowl salad with chicken which she said was very tasty and had a lovely presentation. I had a vegan blueberry acai cupcake for dessert which was the tastiest thing Ive ever had The atmosphere was friendly and inviting, highly recommended! Vegetarian options: Great vegan options
This is an absolute MUST for a delicious, affordable meal in Kenora. We each got different meals, and they were all absolutely amazing. Super friendly staff. ALL THE STARS!!
Vegan options are extensive. Was very good. We got the vegan steak and egg burrito with tomato salad, classic benny made vegan with home fries, 2 cinnamon buns with icing, passion berry smoothie and an americano.
I love the traditional eggs Benedict here and the cinnamon buns! Yum!
We are from the USA and wanted our kids to try poutin but I also have celiac disease. They were very knowledgeable and accommodating. The food was absolutely fabulous. Out of 6 meals, not a single one was bad. Highly recommend!!
The food is amazing. The waitress was so nice! Carl (the owner and chef) came out of the kitchen to see me, just to say hello. Get there early, the seats fill up quickly Vegetarian options: Im not a vegetarian, but I always forget that there are things in the menu that say V. When the food come, I dont even notice a difference. All the food is wonderful (Ive been there a lot) Dietary restrictions: They ask and deliver what you want
Grabbed breakfast on a Sunday morning. Had the Mushrooms and Brie eggs Benny, partner had the chicken and waffles. Food was spectacular, service was great. One of the best breakfasts Ive had in a very long time.
Lovely local cafe, super friendly service and lots of gluten free treats!
Brilliant healthy options hit and cold
Great brunch spot right downtown Kenora. Chloe, our server, was great. Had the Brie and mushroom eggs Benny and the chicken and waffles, both fantastic and good portion sizes. Will be back when in town again! Vegetarian options: Vegan options. Dietary restrictions: Gluten free options. Kid-friendliness: Kids menu available.
Amazing vegan options. Food was delicious. Definitely recommend! Dietary restrictions: Lots of options! Food : 5/5 |
This place is worth the 2hr drive for us to get there! While the inside is a tad dated, the food is phenomenal. Perfect portion size. Not one person in our party left hungry. The service was also great. Really friendly staff.
awesome food and service! loved the salmon burger! Food
My favorite place to dine in Kenora! Lots of menu options including vegetarian/vegan options for most menu items including scrambled tofu or Just Egg substitutes for breakfast items. The vegan Eggs Benedict, Banh Mi and vegan breakfast burritos are my favorites. Smoothie bowls are also delicious! Really grateful for Carl and the rest of the staff! Vegetarian options: Lots of vegan and vegetarian options. Has Just Egg or scrambled tofu for egg substitutes. Also has vegan substitutes for steak, chicken, bacon, cheese, gravy and non-dairy milk options. All the baking is also vegan and some is GF
Was on a time crunch, our food came so quickly and we made it to our next destination on time. The food was very good. The Pug Mug tea was delish! Bless them for having Half servings of the Eggs Benedict. Much appreciated. Food
Best breakfast/lunch in town. Large selection for vegetarians.
Cute place with great food, good portions for a fair price. Lengthy wait just due to it being one of the most popular spots in town with limited seating.
My favourite restaurant to visit. The food is always very fresh, tasty and soulful. You can tell the team really cares about the food they serve. Locally sourced ingredients and complete dietary inclusivity. Truly one of a kind in our town. Food
This place is an absolute gem! Im form out of town but I took my niece and nephew for breakfast while in town for the holidays and it was so dang delicious Vegetarian options: Though I did not partake, I definitely notice many vegetarian and vegan options.
Great food, friendly service! Vegetarian options: So many great vegetarian options! Food : 5/5 |
Love the cinnamon bun and muffin we ordered today. Fresh and delicious!
Fantastic pastries. Previously being from Kenora, every time we come through we make sure we swing in to at least pick up some of their pastries. You would never know that theyre deserts/pastries are vegan.
Delicious food and friendly staff- it was an absolutely delightful experience.
Food was great! Service was prompt! Was easy to connect with the staff! Had a great experience here :)
The Hungry Pub Cafe catered an event that I attended this week, and I was absolutely blown away by the quality and effort that was put into each delicious option. The fruit trays were full of the freshest, juciest, and most beautiful arrangement of choices, and the cinnamon buns and muffins were to die for. Our lunch options were as though we had ordered sandwiches, salads and hot foods directly from a European 5 star food tour. Carl...you won this girl over with your mad chef skills! Cant wait to travel back to Kenora for more!
Eggs Benny was delicious!
Best Eggs Benny I have ever had! Very friendly staff!
Wow you must try this place is really good Passing by from ottawa we decide to stop and I was soo happy with the food and the place .
Sooo good. The chicken and waffles and French toast benny are must tries. Very friendly service.
Food was excellent! Highly recommend it.
They are very busy and we re short staffed today so the service was a little slow
Tasty breakfast, the tomato salad was delicious. Would recommend eating here :)
Had their eggs Benedict with mushrooms, tasty.
My friend and I came for breakfast on a Sunday morning. I fell in love with the place! The fellow serving us has the best, most welcoming and fun personality. Even if the food was terrible (it was delicious!) I would come back just to see him. Next time I m in Kenora I will stop in. Any chance you d like to open a place in the London area?
Great food, great coffee, service was amazing!
Having recently moved to Kenora, I was so pleased to find the Pug Cafe, an eatery that focused on vegan dishes as much as meat options, along with sweets that literally are all mouthwateringly delicious! The food is prepared with local fresh ingredients and I find myself being attracted to dishes where in a 2hour radius from the town, I cannot find such as their shawarma which can come as a meat or vegan option. Do yourself a favor, come by, take out, eat in, say hi to Carl and all the wonderful upbeat staff, feeling part of the community. Thank you Pug Cafe. I ll see you soon! Dietary restrictions: Great for vegans and vegetarians along with meat-a-vors! Kid-friendliness: Children have so many options to choose from in terms of eating.
We are here for the first time and it was outstanding!! Wow delicious! We had the Thanksgiving Benny and the West coast Benny special OMG both fantastic. Gotta eat here.
First time visiting this place and I am in love. The vegan Benny as well as Mushroom and Brie are amazing. The chocolate monkey smoothie and everything on their dessert menu is seriously out of this world. We will be back again and again
Great food! Great service! Sketchy area...
An absolutely fantastic place! Something for the vegans/veggies and carnivores alike! Vegetarian options: Vegetarian meat options, fruit plates, acai bowls, and smoothies.
Hands down the best eggs Benny anywhere in the world. Especially enjoy the mushroom and brie version but all variations are very good. They also sell cinnamon buns,cupcakes and some other heavenly desserts. So happy this restaurant is in our city and we always have great food and smiling service from the staff and owner. Update Nov 4 2023. Tried the special Greek Eggs Benedict and was very impressed. Fresh ingredients and great tasting it may even be better than the mushroom and brie Benny! See last photo.
Tried the Chicken & Waffle: Seoul style. Chicken had a perfect crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside. It was tossed in a Korean bbq sauce and topped with kimchi. The waffle was soft and fluffy. The sweetness from the maple syrup was a perfect ratio. Unfortunately I didn t get to try their cinnamon buns because they were sold out. But I did get to have a double choc chip cookie and it was great! Soft and delicious!
Amazing service. Food was delicious!!! Vegan Poutine was best poutine I ve ever had!!! Come eat here!
I just love the made-fresh, healthy menu and specials created by the chef/proprietor. I also make a habit of bringing home whatever the soup of the day is. Several different variations of Borscht? Um, yes please!!
11/10 !!! If there were more stars to give we would! My boyfriend said this is the best breakfast I ve ever had and he s still talking about it! I absolutely was blown away by the abundance of vegan options - the French toast absolutely amazing!!! The açai bowl sooo fresh and so delicious! A vegan cinnamon roll so sweet and a brownie that for sure tasted like it couldn t have been vegan! Overall the food was incredible - hats off to the chefs! It was very busy the morning we went and I can see why. Loved that the chef brought out our plates such a nice touch. The waitress was super friendly and on top of it amidst the busy-ness. Highly recommend - a must stop in Kenora! Will be back!
Everything is great. But you have to try the cinnamon buns.
Best chicken waffle
Kenora is fabulously fortunate to have such a great establishment.
So many vegetarian option. The best cinnamon rolls Ive ever had! Kenora is very lucky to have this place!
Great coffee and breakfast! Service was friendly and quick and the kids menu was perfect.
I wish I would ve taken a photo as the presentation was on point, but I just HAD to dig in immediately. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. I had the classic Benny, husband had chicken and waffles. Both were the definition of perfect. *chef s kiss*
Great spot with great food from friendly people. I will definitely be back.
Incredible store! Great, friendly service!! & all dishes are also available as a vegan option!!! Our stopover was worth it.
I love their chocolate monkey acai bowl! They make great cinnamon buns too.
Excellent food
There terrible at answering phones. I called got put on hold, they never picked it back up and when I tried to call back the phone was off the hook for at least a half hour before anyone realized the phone was off and not receiving calls.
yummm delicious great spot and friendly staff!! awesum vegan food options
Delicious! Lots of vegan options.
Very good breakfast, delicious and reasonably priced, would definitely go back!
First time and loved it. Food high end for great value. Everyone smiling regardless of experience. Great job. Only issue I have is the prices should be higher. Cheers
Friendly staff. Great service excellent food. Good value for the money
Enjoyable
Delicious, satisfying meals and good portions. Carl knows his stuff!
We stopped in for lunch while on a road trip, and had a wonderful time! The staff team was friendly, kind, and helpful. And the food was delicious! We enjoyed the mushroom burger & mango salad and would highly recommend both.
