French Toast

These more daring versions of this breakfast classic could make a convert of anyone who thinks it’s just bread fried in egg batter.

* The Standard: This airy, buttery French toast is made from small, thick slices of homemade brioche bread in a batter that includes cream and sweet spices. Three slices come with caramelized apples and warm maple syrup. (French toast with sauteed apples, $7.) The Standard, the Standard Hotel, 8300 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, (323) 650-9090.

* Basix: This kitchen makes French toast using the fresh croissants it bakes every morning. Three slices come with maple syrup and, for $1 extra, fresh fruit (right now, blueberries). (Croissant French toast, $4.75.) Basix, 8333 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, (323) 848-2460.

* Victor’s Restaurant: Here French toast is made from challah bread, either plain or studded with golden raisins. The egg bread soaks up all the delicious egg batter made with milk and a shot of vanilla and is dusted with powdered sugar and served with a small pitcher of warmed maple syrup. (French toast, plain $6.95; with raisins, $7.25.) Victor’s Restaurant, 1917 N. Bronson Ave., Hollywood, (323) 464-0275.

* Old Town Bakery: Four pieces of homemade egg bread are dipped in batter and then the crust is dipped in granola. As it cooks, the edges get nice and crispy. It comes topped with vanilla sauce and fresh strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, with more granola on the side. (Granola French toast, $7.95.) Old Town Bakery, 166 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, (626) 793-2993.

* Broadway Deli: This one is made from brioche bread dipped in Rice Krispies and almond slivers, which gives the toast a wonderful sweet, crunchy crust. Served with warm maple syrup. (Crunchy French toast with almond crust, $7.25.) Broadway Deli, 1457 Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, (310) 451-0616.

* Mamma Mia: Chef and owner Angela Ghori bakes a light, airy homemade panettone with raisins and candied fruit, which she slices and dips into a simple egg batter then cooks golden and puffy. She serves it dusted with powdered sugar and with her own tart, chunky marmalade on top. (Homemade panettone French toast, $4.75.) Mamma Mia, 1727 N. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles, (323) 669-3354.