At Portage Bay Cafe’s Ballard branch, the French toast features their house-made challah dipped in an organic egg custard, then cooked until the crust is lightly crisp and the interior is pillowy.[15] This version is distinguished by its pairing with the fruit from the cafe’s toppings bar, encouraging diners to load the plate with berries and other garnishes that change with the seasons.[12][15] Eating it, you get a soft, rich slice under a bright mix of fruit and add-ons, with each bite shifting depending on how you build your toppings.[12][15] Diners often highlight the consistency of the preparation across visits and the satisfying combination of a classic base with the cafe’s emphasis on organic ingredients.[2][12][15]