‘The maple syrup is running’: Nova Scotia town celebrates French Toast Fest

The 7th annual French Toast Festival is underway in Amherst, N.S.

French toast – it’s not just for breakfast anymore.

The seventh annual French Toast Fest is taking place in Amherst, N.S., this week.

The Elm Tree is one of 10 participating cafés and restaurants.

“A lot of love is what goes into it and local blueberries,” said Sissy Cunningham, owner of The Elm Tree.

But the key ingredient – sliced bread and eggs.

The town’s egg factory, bread producing facility and sugar maple woods make it the perfect location for a French Toast Fest.

“What better time than when the maple syrup is running,” said Amherst Deputy Mayor Hal Davidson. “We have a huge maple syrup business in northern Nova Scotia and we’re trying to take advantage of that.”

The municipality is also trying to boost restaurant business and foot traffic.

“Business owners love it because they have new customers that are coming in. It really is a slower time of year you know,” said Davidson. “Business slows down after Christmas and it starts picking up in around April. We’re trying to give a little injection into our local business.”

Cunningham said it’s working.

“We’re very happy with it,” she said.

All the ingredients needed are locally made and local industries are collaborating to create community vibrancy.

Great news for people out at lunch time on Wednesday.

“Certainly, a lot of good restaurants nearby,” said Mark Carter while dining at Bliss Cafe. “It’s nice to support local and have a great meal at the same time.”

Paul Coulter decided to head to The Elm Tree for a late breakfast.

“I saw a picture of it and I know the festival is going on, so I figured we were going to partake,” said Coulter.

The French Toast Fest runs until Sunday, March 23.

Participating cafes and restaurants:

• Abstract Coffee
• Art Of Eating Deli And Catering
• Bliss Crystal Café
• Breakfast At Brittney’s
• Portlander Jamaican Restaurant
• The Elm Tree
• The Old Warehouse Café And Lounge
• Harvest Clean Eats
• House of Birria
• Johny’s Java

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