How the Egg-Themed Gudetama Cafe Copes With the Egg Shortage | Eater

"A Sanrio-themed, egg-focused cafe in an outdoor mall that leans into its lazy-egg mascot with yellow decor, portraits and merchandise everywhere, giant bacon-and-toast ceiling decorations, a human-sized character figure and branded touches on tables and even the sunny-side-up yolks. Despite national egg shortage worries, staff reported no supply issues and the menu—centered on egg dishes and sandwiches priced roughly $13.50–$18—arrives reliably; examples include a chicken katsu egg-and-cheese and a bacon-egg-and-cheese (each $16) served on a stamped, buttery brioche with a runny fried egg, American cheese, chile sauce and a side of tater tots, and the spot also offers quail-egg options. The sandwiches were the highlight: warm, plush brioche, bright, creamy yolks, a non-dry katsu and generous bacon slices, while a collaborative cream puff dipped in white chocolate with peach “yolk” jam and vanilla-bean filling was cute and fine. Operations can be popular (stanchions for lines and long waits reported on opening day) and the vibe attracts families and photo-taking groups, but service during the visit was smooth and the food quality felt on par with other Los Angeles cafes—surprisingly good given the heavy emphasis on aesthetics and branding." - Kat Thompson