Syrup Trap serves superior waffles

Why: The Syrup Trap opened on National Waffle Day (March 25) on Main Street just south of The Source. They specialize in Liege waffles, which are made with a yeast-leavened dough that has chunks of Belgian pearl sugar incorporated that caramelizes on the outside when cooked. The waffle house provides plain and savory options, mornings until 3 p.m., six days a week.

What I tried: I settled on the Leslie Knope with maple syrup, and my dining companions tried the Second Breakfast with bacon added and the Couve Club, also with bacon added. I had a cup of drip coffee, as well.

The Leslie Knope is topped with fresh, sliced strawberries and whipped cream. The organic maple syrup is served as a side in a shot glass. Although it is enough syrup for the waffle, it is pricey at $1. The strawberries were cold and aided in cooling the waffle. I would have preferred the fruit to be warm, or at least room temperature, in order to maintain the heat in the waffle for longer.

The Second Breakfast has balanced amounts of prosciutto ham, brie and pear atop the waffle.

The Couve Club is topped with honey maple turkey, havarti, bacon and a big dollop of raspberry preserves.

The additional bacon on the waffles was chopped and fried to a chewy finish.

My dining companions and I all agreed that the waffles are spectacular. They are dense and pastry-like with a delicious, buttery and sweet presence. The menu selections are not numerous, but with the additional topping options, there is something for everyone.

Once you add in the cost of a beverage, you are looking at about a $12 ticket for a meal that may not satisfy if you have a hearty appetite.

Although I was dining in, my coffee was served in a paper cup, without a sleeve. When I asked if I could have it in a mug, there was hesitation to honor my request because, “we usually run out of mugs fast.” In my opinion, a simple solution (more mugs), would alleviate the stress for them and provide a more pleasant experience for diners who opt for plain, drip coffee.

Overall, I loved the waffles, but found room for improvement.

Menu highlights beyond what I tried: The Mojo Jojo waffle is topped with Nutella, organic bananas and whipped cream. The JG2 sounded delicious. This sweet waffle combines lemon curd and organic blueberries on top. Among the savory options is the Audrey, topped with goat cheese, roasted hazelnuts and honey, and the Anne Fan with crispy bacon and organic maple syrup. Topping additions include chocolate syrup, prosciutto ham, honey maple turkey, havarti and honey.

Atmosphere: The space is just to the right of the entry to the main building, which also houses other businesses. The flooring is a weathered wood-tone laminate. Tables and countertops are a contrasting light tone of wood. Gray hexagonal tiles face the ordering counter, and industrial pipe shelving holds items throughout the space. Tables and chairs for two to four provide a moderate number of dine-in seats and a window-side bar accommodates a few diners, as well.

Other observations: The service was friendly, and they keep a tidy environment. The waffles were tasty and far superior to the Belgian waffles available at other establishments in Clark County. Produce incorporated into recipes is 100% organic. I found the atmosphere had a bit of a grab-n-go feeling, not really conducive to lingering.

Cost: The Original Liege Waffle with powdered sugar is $3.50. Sweet waffles cost $7 and $8, and savory waffles are $8 and $9. Topping options are $1 to $4. Espresso drinks cost $3 to $4.75. Add-ons cost 25 cents to $1.50. Drip coffee comes in 8-ounce for $2.25, 12-ounce for $2.75, and 16-ounce for $3.25. Tea is $3. Other beverages range from $2 to $4.75.