best breakfast joint in Toronto?

[JMHewer]

where is the spot to fuel up after a night on the town

[Habsfan]

Not sure baout Toronto, but if you are in Mississauga, try Skyway Jacks...on Mississuaga Rd just south of the 401. Quantity and quality.

[JMHewer]

Thanks for the info but I will be downtown so am looking for something a little more central

[rbc]

mars at yonge & eg is my #1 stop for early morning refuel/pit stops.

[estragon]

The original Mars, at College and Bathurst, is the real deal. The one at Yonge and Eglinton has that uptown vibe.

[mortgageguy]

I have to agree, the College location is the real deal. Is Yonge a franchise? I could never figure it out, the menu is more or less the same but the taste is off in the Yonge local.

[Vinnie Vidimangi]

The original Mars stopped being original about twenty years ago when the Ukranians sold to the Greeks. The Greeks successfully turned a million dollar business into a hundred thousand dollar business. As`you may have guessed , I haven't been there for a long, long time. What is it like now-adays, in comparison ?
VVM

[Yongeman]

Well, V V, Jimmy the counterman is still on duty--at least he was the last time I was there. We've been going for almost 30 years. Not the 'happening' place that it was then, but still pretty good.

[maybethereshope]

I grew up going to Mars and was shocked and appalled earlier this year to go in and be served disgusting food. Frozen food at which they microwave in front of you and then plop on the plate. It was vile, I took one bite and sat while my companion ate their burger and then left and vowed never to return.

I think the telltale sign of a restaurant is when you walk by and there are people in there. I live a few blocks from the original Mars and have not walked by in the past six months and seen more than two people in at a time.

It's a shame too, I had such fond memories of the place from when I was a kid and my dad took me.

[cocolou]

Very good. They sure know how to cook eggs to your taste, but beware of fried potatoes: they taste kind of sweet. Service is fast and friendly.

[estragon]

Breakfast or brunch?

One of my favourite breakfast spots is People's Foods on Dupont at St. George. The un-greasiest greasy-spoon breakfast in town.

On the gourmet/brunch side, the Drake and the Beaconsfield (AKA Molson Bank) are great. Also, the Swan, a few blocks east of there, at Queen and Crawford.

Finally, my neighbourhood spot, the Universal Grill (Dupont and Shaw), has the best steak and eggs I've ever had, and many other fine things.

[JMHewer]

thanks for the tips. It will either be breakfast or brunch depending on how well the evening before goes.

[sherry f]

I Love Boom on the north side of College street just east of Ossington. Not greasy, great omelettes and lattes.

[cwong5]

Boom is good. They make "shakes" too!

[Riblover]

I second Boom as well. The place is fantastic! I usually go to one on Eglinton, east of Avenue.

[Sui_Mai]

I seriously do not understand the deal with the Swan. I've really tried to like it since it's close by and the decor and ambiance is appealing, but the food feels so slapped together and flavourings are often off or overdone. We head a couple doors west to bar one for a yummy brunch. The Drake knocks out a great breakie too.

[BritInTO]

I second Universal Grill. It looks like nothing. I walked past it for like 2 years before setting foot in there just for somewhere different to go as i was sick of Faema. Universal knocked brekkie out the park and i have not been back to Faema since. I have yet to try their dinner menu but when they leave the specials up from the night before i can see that the place looks really interesting. Has anyone else had a look at dinner in this place and what is their wine list like? Places like this often get in some really nice wines.

[xtal]

My personal favourite is Daybreak at Church & Carlton. Cheap, cheerful, good food, good service. Can't be beat after a long night out. :)

[Peechie]

I second Daybreak. Their portions are HUGE.

[jjmellon]

Just had breakfast at Daybreak. The best thing about the place is the variety of choices on the menu. I had the parilla mexicana, which is two kinds of sausage, one piece of bacon, two fried eggs cooked with tomatoes, and refried beans for about $9. No toast came with it, and the refried beans were colder than luke warm -- I left them. The coffee was good, but I think it cost extra. My partner asked about the oatmeal, and was told it was instant. She ordered pancakes, which was a plate of four huge pancakes with some dollops of whipped cream for $6.

So, I agree the service is cheerful and the portions are large. It is not particularly cheap. Maybe some of the other 60 choices are better than what we ordered. But there is no way on earth this is one of the best breakfast places in Toronto.

[VivekS]

Huge negatory on Daybreak. I had an omelette there once and it was a total mess. Eggs are typically a no-brainer, so I haven't given them another chance.

For breakfast/brunch I really like:
Aunties and Uncles
Lady Marmalade
Karines

[EPIcureanTO]

Not sure of their later hours, but Easy on Queen W & Roncy is my new current fav.

Try www.torontobrunch.com for more places & reviews...

[Googs]

Not since Brothers on the west side of Yonge across from Isabella has there been a hands down winner of a downtown breakfast (read not brunch) joint. Yonge St taxes drove them away.

We like Zoulpy's downtown for quick, cheap, and on the way to the SL Market. The Tulip for steak & eggs if we're Beach bound. Then there's the Tara Inn on Eglinton in Scarborough for traditional Irish breakfast.

[TorontoJo]

Two of my favourites: Aunties and Uncles (College and Lippincott) and Sugar Cafe (Queen and Shaw-ish).

[JMHewer]

thanks, has anybody been to the Senator Diner which is part of the Top of the Senator?

[cwong5]

Breakfast? They server on the main floor! Great toast and jam.

[estragon]

Top of the Senator is long gone.

[downtown]

Senator diner is not the cheapest but is certainly one of the freshest breakfasts and of consistently great quality. The coffee is delicious and is refilled continuously. For something different try the Yogurt Surprise or the Huevos Rancheros. Oh yeah, and they actually give you real maple syrup.

[Peechie]

Yeah, breakfast at Senators is on the main floor. You could try their crab cakes, not the best in town but it's tasty. Depending on the day, be prepared to wait. If you're looking to impress at breakfast, this would be better than Daybreak.

[foodgangsta]

Mimi's on Bathurst, north of Queen.

[Canada Eats]

Most of mine have been listed already (Auntie's and Uncles, Boom, Mars on College, People's Food), but here's a few more:

Grapefruit Moon- Bathurst, a few blocks north of Bloor.
House on Parliament- this one's in Cabbagetown, and one of the best breakfast I've ever had. It's on Parliament, about a half block south of Carlton.

- Canada Eats
canada-eats.com

[hungryabbey]

hmm, never been to HOP for breakfast.. whats on the menu?

[redhead]

hungryabbey..you are such a HOP fan, I can hardly believe you are not up to speed on their brunch! They have a few types of eggs benny, an omlette of the day, some sandwiches and I think pancakes..I have to say, it's a darn good good brunch..my fave in the 'hood (Eggs Parliament is great!)

[Canada Eats]

Hi hungryabbey, I think redhead has pretty much covered it for HOP breakfast. Everything always tastes great, very fresh, interesting ingredients along with more standard fare, plus, very little grease.

Cheers, Lea

- Canada Eats
canada-eats.com

[hungryabbey]

very nice sounding, Ill have to check that out this holiday

[Quasimime]

Le Petit Dejeuner @ King/George (just E. of Jarvis) is quite delicious.

[Peechie]

Oh, I heard about le Petit, it's very homey. My friend loves it, but then again he lives across the street. Haven't been to it myself.

[Googs]

Maybe since your friend lives across the street he can see when the line-up at Le Petit dies down. Personally I don't line up for anything let alone the first meal of my day. It only means the place is small, not of any special quality.

[deelicious]

bingo

[Quasimime]

you guys are pretty insightful...
i used to live pretty much across the street and would look to see if there was a line-up before i went over. ;-)

[LK1975]

Cora's by the SoHo Metropolitan Hotel...(I think it's on Wellington street)...if you want something cheap and basic, Sunset Grill. They seem to be popping up everywhere. I think there's one near the Eaton Centre.

[estragon]

Feh on both counts. Cora's is a chain that serves pre-packaged food. Sunset Grill is a franchise based on a favourite Beaches joint that slid into mediocrity years ago.

[JMHewer]

We went to the Sunset Grill when we were in town and it was horrible.

[Peechie]

Sunset Grill is not what it use to be and not all Sunsets are made equal.

[foodgangsta]

went to Cora's once, and won't be going back. Service was awful, place was a mess, and food was blah.

[Jenn and Al]

...good call on Cora's. We used to visit Cora's in Fredericton (NB) and found the quality was second to none...great fruits accompany each dish. you can't go wrong with Cora's.

[akyra]

bring a big bag of money with you to Cora's ...
and a comfy waiting chair if visting the Pickering location.
Brekkie was certainly not worth the 40 minute very cramped can't turn around now wait ....
I did however get a good workout on the chewiest french toast this side of rubber ...

[Food Tourist]

Avoid Kilgour's Bar meets Grill on Bloor between Spadina and Bathurst. Had a horrible experience with brunch today involving crunchy eggshells in the smoked salmon non-caramelized onion non-melted bocconcini omelette. A request for "no onions" in a different omelette was overlooked. Both dishes were "fixed" and returned, overcooked til tough, with dubious toast (one already bitten into). Really hopeless!

[Canada Eats]

That sounds a bit like Maggies, on College (between Spadina and Bathurst). Another one to avoid- they thought a smoked salmon benedict would go well with cheddar English muffins. When I asked for plain English muffins instead, they simply sprinkled on shredded cheese between the muffin and the salmon. Blech.

- Lea
http://canada-eats.com

[Cereal Killer]

Musa at Dundas and Euclid is my current brunch crush, although I often return to the well of Aunties and Uncles.

[dannyboy]

I'm with aunties and uncles as well, good home cookin', i think insomnia on bloor is good for a neighbourhood spot as well, heard the Vic is good too

[hanc]

The food is good at Aunties and Uncle but the place needs a thorough cleaning. I don't know when the last time they dusted in there. There were cobwebs in every corner, especially on the second floor kitchen area. I'm one for unpretenuous mom and pop style decore but if it feels dirty and looks dirty my question is, what's the level of cleaniness in the kitchen?

[Peechie]

If you haven't been to Eggspectations, you could try that too. It's not as good as the original Eggspectations in Montreal but it's not bad. I find the service inconsistent though.

Eggspectations is at Eatons near Shuter, where the old radio station use to be.

[deelicious]

Personally I put Eggspectations on par with Frans. I did not like anything about it. I only went once but you couldnt pay me to return. If it has improved I certainly invite other hounds to speak up.

[Peechie]

Oh, I completely agree. Eggspectations at Eatons isn't great by any measure, but if you're in that area and need to fuel up - why not? I like the smoke salmon Egg Benedict.

The Eggspectations in Montreal is much better.

[deelicious]

Because The Senator is one street over. And because the original poster was asking for the best breakfast joint in TO.

[Peechie]

true, and point taken. I forgot about the initial request after reading all the suggestions.

[deelicious]

no biggie. i dont want to appear like the board bully. Sorry, I just get upset when those big places open up and offer mediocre meals to my tourists.

[Peechie]

LOL, no offense taken. To be quite honest, I was very excited when I found out that Eggspectations was gonna come to Toronto. I kept raving about this all day breakfast place in Montreal to my friends and when I took my friends to the Eaton location, I was mildly disappointed. It wasn't how and what I remebered it to be but my friends enjoyed themselves and at the time the server was cute and friendly =). But every time I go back, it seems to get worse. So I know what you mean by mediocre touristy place.

[balthazar]

I loved Eggspectactions in Montreal when I lived there, and when I heard it was coming to TO I was excited at first - then saw it was in the Eaton Centre. I have been too afraid to go for fear of ruining the memory of Mtl - sounds like that is the case.

Then I went back to Eggspec. in Mtl in fall 2006, and even it isn't quite what it used to be. Still nice, but not the same (e.g. you no longer get the jar of homemade jam at the table, but instead those little packaged plastic jams; no little pot of beans and not as much nice, fresh fruit with your omlette).

[Peechie]

OH NOO..really? I think I went in 2002/3. It was so good, the whole experience. *sigh* too bad. Yet another fab eatery down the drain.

[downtown]

What about Mitzi's? I had an amazing breakfast there a couple of years ago but haven't eaten there since because every time I drive by its lined up out the door. Sigh

[Cereal Killer]

I live around the corner from Mitzi's, and don't go unless it is a REALLY late start. There simply isn't enough bandwidth there to accommodate the demand, although if you go late enough the crowd dies down considerably. And if you aren't fan of ankle biters on Saturday or Sunday morning, it isn't the place for you. Food is still very good though.

CK

[elle_v]

The food is great, but it's overpriced, and is cash only. The service is touch and go too. I would recommend going as soon as they open to guarantee some kind of attentiveness.

[Sarah Cat]

Mitzi's has by FAR my favourite T.O. breakfast!!! It's worth the wait. That sourdough toast is to die for. If you can, go during the week and order the fishcakes. They are fantastic!!

I don't see what the big deal is with Boom. I went and found it to be mediocre. Looks cool but that's about it.

Over Easy (at Bloor and Avenue) is still a pretty good bet. A little expensive, but tasty.

[John Dory]

Walked into Mitzi's and waited 10 minutes for a menu ( I finally had to approach the waiter), at which point the brunch started at $13.95 for bacon and eggs. There are many options in the neighbourhood and Mitzi's will never be one of them.

[Sarah Cat]

We went last weekend, and I agree, the new server there is not great. I'm not sure how long she's been there, but she gets easily flustered and seems to struggle accomplishing what seem like straightforward tasks (bringing coffee, ringing a bill through, etc.). She seems pleasant enough, and the other server picks up the slack as best she can — I'm patient to wait until this new person gets a bit better. I just haven't found anywhere else in the area where the coffee and food and ambiance are quite as good.

I've never heard of the price for the standard bacon and eggs special going up that high — I've only ever paid 7 or 8 dollars for it. What time does the price go up? I know the "specials" on the chalkboard can be pricy, but I always order plain old bacon and eggs and they have always been reasonable. Maybe I eat an earlier breakfast.

[Sui_Mai]

At Mitzi's Sister they used to call the bacon and eggs the Tennessee in homage to the Tavern/greasy spoon that used to be there and kept the low price the same for years. Moved out of the area so I can't say now. I miss their buttery good toast!

[duckdown]

LOL, $13.95 for a bacon & eggs breakfast? I would have thrown the menu like a frisbee back at the servers head

[chocabot]

i'm not sure if it's actually that high but the servers at mitzi's on sorauren did admit the brunch prices go up on weekends.

i like mitzi's but only the one on sorauren or on college.

[ingloriouseater]

breakfast standards

mitzi's Breakfast
Two eggs any style with Sourdough Toast, Home fries & your choice of Bacon, Sautéed Tomato or Fishcakes $6.95

[Tboy]

Nobody has mentioned Stem on Queen Street. It's hard to find - you've all probably walked past it a million times without seeing it. It's a REAL greasy spoon original diner! Perfect portion sizes, and their homefries are outstanding!

If you can't find it, its next to the Roots store on Queen Street West.

That's definitely my vote for best Toronto breakfast :)

[sarshiny]

A good one for a yummy Italian Styled Eggs Bennie is Fusaros on Saturdays. They have great Lattes too. Richmond and Spadina

[TheGurl]

Cora's. Its located at 277 Wellington Street West. Best Breakfast/Brunch in town

[nic1]

chai on bayview - my favourite

[balthazar]

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Chai and it is one of my faves - but if out all night drinking it might not be what many people crave (i.e. light fluffy omlettes with goat cheese & fresh basil leaves, chai tea with soy, soba noodles, bok choy, bagels with olive paste, dumplings?). I'm guessing after a drinkfest you want the eggs & home fries kind of deal.

If on the Bayview strip try McSorley's (not the best but cheap and does the pub twist on the typical egg breakfasts), Originals (similar), or Rosie's Kitchen (traditional home-style breakfast foods, eggs & bacon etc., and super-cheap). There are far nicer breakfasts to be had in TO than these 3 places, but if in the area and without high eggspecations (<groan> sorry, couldn't resist) these places have that kind of food and the price is right.

[Tboy]

RE Cora's - It's only my opinion, but I think that place is overated, and certainly not worth the *crazy* line-ups that are there on the weekend!

[deelicious]

I agree. I see those line ups and figure it is largely from the hotels and locals who have little choice in the area.

[camp1980]

Can't believe no one has mentioned Good Bites up at Younge and Eglinton. Awesome breakfast.

[nummanumma]

and *I* can't believe no one has mentioned Bar One out on Queen West- it is my favorite breakfast, along with Hart House.

[justlogic]

Everyone has different tastes but if you want an beautiful old style breakfast not delivered by a corporation or Franchise try Creme de la Creme 2991 Bloor W, Etobicoke [phone] . Place is run by a lovely greek family. Right in the Kingsway, watch out for the long lineups on weekends. I don't know how they make such good pancakes but for something so simple they are awesome. Best breakfast in Toronto hands down. Believe the place has been reviewed very well by several newspapers.

[Cereal Killer]

Hounders were just talking about creme de la creme the other day: http://www.chowhound.com/topics/356222

[Cereal Killer]

Hit up both Easy (Queen and Roncesvalles) and The Beaver Cafe (Queen just east of Dufferin (near the Gladstone Hotel)) on the weekend.

Although I often go to Easy as it is fairly close to my digs, I think I'm finally "done" with it. The food is just too tasteless. Other than the smoothies (man, that peanut butter one is good), it just doesn't have the flavour of some of the other places mentioned above.

Hadn't been to The Beaver Cafe in a while for brunch, and was more than pleasantly surprised. For a place without a full kitchen, they turn out some great food, and four of us had an outstanding late brunch. Word of warning though - if you are looking for a quick bite, The Beaver is not the place for you. And of all the coffee I've had in the City, The Beaver Cafe makes a top notch cup (this stuff doesn't come from a pot, so don't expect free refills either).

I still stand by Musa as my current fave place for brunch.

CK

[Cereal Killer]

Clearly I don't cook on the weekends - went to Musa on Sunday. The food wasn't as good as usual, and the portions (especially the home fries) seemed to have shrunk.

CK

[Polkaroo]

Aunties and Uncles always seems to get rid of foggy head. Great staff, music, and the food is excellent. And I love playing with the shopping list!

[bluedog]

No-one has mentioned the Only Cafe on the Danforth at Donlands. Best hidden gem weekend brunch I've come across (and it helps I live nearby!!!).

[Poorboy]

No kidding, I live nearby as well. What do they serve up?

Poorboy
www. TOeats.com

[mary sand]

IF Café (Dundas/Dovercourt/Ossington area, by the LCBO) is really really good AND inexpensive! A bit farther west than the trendy part of Dundas (Musa, Saving Grace) but 1) never a line up, 2) extremely reasonable, 3) very yummy. Unexpected GEM in this very home-style Portuguese neighbhourhood. Café Brasilliano, right beside Musa is a FIND too! Go there for lunch, when the line ups at Musa and Saving Grace are ticking you off!

[downpressor]

A bit less conventional in terms of a "breakfast spot" but I was still impressed: Shai's (or Shae's, but i think the former) in Kensington Market, I think on Augusta. You won't get crazy amounts of food which is what most people go to breakfast places for, but its one of the few places where you can get eggs with potato-stuffed naan, its good and quite cheap. i think it is a ma and pa place owned by an Indian couple. havent been there in a while so i can't remember more details. also, a nice little patio during the summertime. and across the street from patty king, so you can get a doubles or two if you're still hungry.
Also, the By the Way Cafe (Bloor and Brunswick) has great weekend brunch specials, including a fantastic zataar, goat cheese, and (i think) sundried tomato omelette and fantistic mexican breakfasts including eggs sunnyside with tomatillo sauce and other delights. decent prices too; make sure you try their house hot sauce which is tasty

[asheky]

My favourite brunch place is Cafe la Gaffe on Baldwin st. They have nice big portions great egg bennys and great soup. I know soup is not something one usually orders for breakfast, but I have on more than one occasion ordered the soup of the day for breakfast because it sounded so good and it always ends up tasting just as good.

[LikeTheWolf]

I'm looking for a great breakfast place north of Steeles (b/w Bathurst and Leslie/Don Mills). Thanks.

[jonnybee]

A few of my friends are partial to The Fry Basket, east side of Yonge St. just north of Steeles. They give you quite a bit of bacon, but it tastes kind of off to me. It is quite a greasy breakfast, but I am not sure if it greasy in that ever so good way. I should mention that their menu basically consists of bacon n' eggs, fish & chips, and a few sandwiches. Also, they close at either 3:00 or 4:00.

[chefmama]

What-a-Bagel at Bathurst Street and New Westminister in Vaughan offers great, fresh breakfast food.

[tellerium]

No one has mentioned KOS on Bathurst just south of Dupont. Hands down one of the best breakfasts in the city. Their homefries are worth every penny. And as an added bonus it's cheap so you don't need that many pennies.

[jayseeca]

Definitely KOS is my fave (not a place if you want atmosphere, but delicious cheap food after a painful night with friends), Aunties and Uncles, and The Beaver.
Heard good things about Leonards, but i've never been..

[Tzero]

Quote: "Maybe since your friend lives across the street he can see when the line-up at Le Petit dies down. Personally I don't line up for anything let alone the first meal of my day. It only means the place is small, not of any special quality."

If you go on a weekday, there are no lineups. And, the food is really ultra-fantastic. Get the croque madame, or anything with the apple coleslaw!

On the weekends, I second Musa.

[jayzie1]

I find it amusing that people are lined up to 10 deep for brunch at Le Petit, when just a block and a half east is Toba which serves a lovely brunch. Great eggs, blueberry flapjacks, french toast and even steak and eggs. Wonderful, friendly service and no line ups! The Patrician Grill, which is right between Le Petit and Toba does a great classic greasy spoon breakfast.

[Food Tourist]

I recently had a disappointing brunch experience at Toba - poor service and mediocre food. It was my third visit (second brunch visit). I won't be back.

Thuet or any of the french bakeries (Ma Maison, Jules, La Cigogne) are my fave brunch spots.

[weekerrie]

I've given up on The Patrician-I live right across the street and I don't go there anymore. I've been there enough to realize a few things 1) don't expect to have your coffee refilled - even when you ask..twice! 2) jam must cost a fortune because they hate giving it out..again even when you ask twice 3) how you order your eggs is largely irrelevant. Walk a few blocks east to Morning Glory at King and Gilead. Much better food, no lineup and they actually are happy to have you.

[Googs]

If you want a greasy spoon style breakfast, without the grease or attitude, don't forget about Zoulpy's Deli. Huge breakfasts, nice or at worst indifferent staff. I love the place. One meal can easily feed two. 244 King St E between Sherbourne & Princess.

[melezane]

I couldn't disagree more.

The Patrician Grill is a true old-school diner, terrific service from a bunch of originals, and great food. Back in the day I loved Mars (on College) but it ain't what it used to be. So if you like the true diner experience, Patrician Grill is the real deal.

Oh yeah, George Street Diner, just up the street at Richmond, is just as good.

[Yongeman]

If you're using the Mars in its heyday as your guide for what a good diner is, I couldn't agree more. Jimmy at the grill (still there, I thinki) worked wonders, but the atmosphere is lacking now. I'll definitely be trying your two suggestions, melezane.

[Snarf]

Homeway on Mt. Pleasant does a good diner breakfast. Fairly light on the grease. Before the makeover, that was their stock in trade, and the place was surrounded by city worker vehicles in the AM.

[Merriam]

has anyone tried the brunch at RICE near Kensington market?

try these previous threads for suggestions:
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/105120
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/102680

[retrobolted]

I want to register a vote against Easy on Queen at Roncesvalles. We went there today and were pretty disappointed. The food was at best so-so, and it isn't good value for the money. The eggs benny was 10.95 and nothing special....the english muffin wasn't even toasted. And a side order of bacon had the thinnest bacon I've ever seen....it just comes across as really cheap to give people bacon that is thinner than a piece of paper.

[robgm]

i agree with the vote against easy...they screw up toast...over paprika the potatoes...just not great

[snackboy]

I love Sneaky Dees for breakfast on the weekend . . . They have some great omelettes and their home fries are excellent . . . They also use a great quality bacon . . . and if you want something a little different they serve some Tex Mex style breakfast as well . . . their "Eggs Benedict" made with ham is made with more of a cheese sauce than a hollandaise...but for $6.55 it is a great deal.. as they always poach their eggs perfectly . . . For the money I find they cant be beat . . . And as a bonus the staff and owner are always friendly...

SB

[velouria]

Leonard's is the SHIT! I used to work at Eglinton/Laird and we would go to Leonard's ALL the time for lunch. I have no doubt that their breakfast/brunch is equal in quality. At lunch I always get the swiss/mozzarella grilled cheese with fries, it's the BEST!

[bogie]

My wife and I were having some car maintenance done this morning at Canadian Tire, Eglington & Laird. We crossed Laird to this non-descript little joint called LEONARD"S and had a superb breakfast. Real grill jockeys here, folks. Our pancakes were absolutely amazing with just a slight crispness and very flavourful. Sausages were perfectly cooked and coffee was strong, hot and plentiful. Very inexpensive, too. We will definitely return here for more homestyle breakfasts.

[amphetamine]

no one likes Mel's montreal delicatessens???

[piccola]

Oh, Mel's gets plenty of love from me. :)

[thenextbite]

Leonards is by far the worst place my husband and I have ever been. The vegetables were over cooked and gray, the eggs were under cooked with runny whites when I asked for them over-easy. The owner became physically violent towards us when we complained. The police were called in "warn him, again". Apparently we weren't his only victims.

[Full tummy]

Woooaaahhhh. Well, I never got into an altercation with the owner, but that would be because I didn't complain, I suppose, though complaints I had--aplenty. Will never go back there.

[bandicoot]

Leonard's is terrible. The food is fine, but nothing special but the service is a disaster. Both times that we've been there (we tried to give it a second chance), there was no indication that anyone was remotely interested in our dining experience. They were clearly miserable.

[betsythedairycow]

Hi team,

I went to BOOM on College this morning and it was less than I had hoped for. Super cute little place and friendly staff and although my omelet and and friend's eggs benny were very well made there was nothing overly interesting, new or spectacular about them.

Pretty bland.

Safe bet for all you sensitive unadventurous folks out there.

(I should have ordered their hilarous monkey french toast with bananas and nutella).

Love,
moooo.

PS. I have no kill switch for pastry and BONJOUR BRIOCHE was A-1 fantastic. If you truly like food... and/or pastry...deal with the service, its not going to kill you.

[missyoulikegravy]

Fran's, Boom or Eggspectation...

[centralepicure]

How has Kivas (Steeles/Bathurst) not made the list. Always busy (a good sign), generous portions, good service and old world charm. Check out the pictures around the place; Sly Stallone, Howie Mandel, Bobby Hull (2 of which I have personally seen enjoying breakfast there) Worth the trip to Thornhill.

[A flock of seagulls]

I've given Musa several chances. The food is good, the atmosphere is great and it's just around the corner.
But the indifference of the staff is chronic; they are far more interested in feeding themselves and downing their own shots behind the bar during brunch than in serving pesky customers. The last time, and I do mean last time I went, I asked to seat myself after an uncomfortably long wait at the door. I waited about 10 minutes then walked up to ask for a few menus and some coffee. After about 5 more minutes a waitress came by to ask if we wanted coffee?! Then we waited 10 more minutes and still no coffee and no order yet taken. There is such a thing as laid back service but it's inexcusable to have no coffee or water on the table within 25 minutes especially when the place is half empty. We just left and I am sure they didn't even notice.

We ate at the Palmerston. Had a delicious fried egg panini on their patio. Lots of attention to detail here, even the variety of fruit and berries on the side were at a perfect stage of ripeness. Another good brunch place is Easy on Queen near Roncesvalles.

[andrea0guernz]

Kensington market area / downtown- (nothing too fancy)

Fresh Wood Grill has unique eggs benedict options (goat cheese, charred tomatoes, organic sausage etc) and nice big portions (if your feeling really greasy and hungover order the garlic or curry mayo's for your potatoes, sickly delicious) $10

La Palettte - I've been there twice for breakfast and loved both times, cute french feel to the place, and yummy breakfast creations - I dont think they have a regular 2 egg breakfast, but they have savoury crepes, a delicious benny on a croissant, omlettes etc.. $11 - note they also have a couple higher end items w/ duck confit etc.. for like 26$

The Red Room or Nirvana - I believe these are owned by the same people, but they are always good if you are feeling cheap and greasy. Red Rooms 2 egg breakfast is under $5 and I always like it.. It's not huge, but its so cheap you could order other stuff if you are starving.. It comes with a salad and homefries.. i say ditch the salad, not that good. Omlettes arent bad either. Don't expect anything fancy here though..its students and indie kids..etc.. but cute atmostphere with couches, xmas lights, old church pews, and great music - Nirvana is the same deal but maybe a buck more, a little bigger and more variety.

Sneaky Dees - mexican style breakfast.. or just regular 2 egg breakfast. grundgy, loud and cheap ..if your in the mood for that. $6

Hair of the Dog - In the Gay Village, amazing breakfast spot. Good crowd, nice selection, great food AND they give you cute little muffins as you wait. $11

KOS - ive heard its just meh. fine food, nice service, but nothing super cool or unique, just basic eggs etc.. but lots of seating and options $8

Shanghai cowgirl - nothing spectacular..but decent .. lots of tattoed servers and good tunes $8

Eggspectation - It's a chain so nothing too unique, but delicious food. There is always a lineup on wknds, but it goes super fast. $12

[canadianbeaver]

Harbord House www.harbordhouse.ca
Awesome, all on-site home-made food, great prices, relaxed atmosphere.

[mekat]

I know this thread is old, but I just have to add in my favourites. I am a SERIOUS brunch lover, and I can't believe no one has mentioned Saving Grace at Dundas and Bellwoods! The price is good, the food is amazing and unusual, and the atmosphere is sweet, especially now that they've gotten rid of the bitchy waitresses. ;) The coffee is sometimes great, sometimes not, but they have an Avocado/espresso smoothie you should try. Carmelized banana waffles are a favourite, as well as home made muffins. Be prepared to wait for a table on the weekends.

My next favourite is Sadies Diner, at Portland and Adelaide. A cute little vegetarian place, a little out of the way, and like Saving Grace, it closes earlyish in the afternoon, but you should make a point of checking it out, and I have never lined up there. The food is fast, delicious, inexpensive and more interesting than most breakfast places. Plus, the owner has decorated the interior with his massive Pez collection. Hundreds, maybe thousands of them line the walls of the diner. Also, Mike Meyers eats there whenever he's in town...but don't bug him-- he's shy!

Thirdly, believe it or not, The Rex Hotel (Jazz Bar) at Queen and St. Patrick does a yummy, no-nonsense breakfast. Eggs, toast, sausage-- the usual-- I think it was about $4. A quick, and satisfyingly greasy meal, made even better by the sounds of the all-day jazz floating out into to the large and sunny patio. Hmmm, they might just serve breakfast on the weekends, though. Better check first.

[auberginegal]

I've been meaning to check out Saving Grace. would you know what time it starts getting busy on the weekends? I wouldn't mind going earlier if I could beat the lineups.

[elle_v]

Go East, young man.

Toast (Queen E and Pape) makes a fantastic Croque Monsiuer type sandwich, as well as amaz-o stuffed French toast.

Ok Ok (Queen and Bertmount) rightly stakes Huevos as their claim to fame - cash only.

Lesliville Diner - stay tuned, as it's opening soon.

[Adrock75]

I love the coffee at Niche, just west of Bathurst on Queen, north side. The food's good too, and I the house-made ketchup is a nice touch.

I have the sense that the Boom at St. Clair and Oakwood is better than the one on College that's gotten no love from posters. I've been 4 or 5 times "up north" and it's been very good every time, although the last two times I've been there my eggs requested over-medium have been delivered over-easy.

The Wychwood Art Barns Farmers Market has some great snacking options, including Cafe de Olla (a mexican coffee/cacao hybrid from one of the booths), but it's only open 9-12 on Saturdays.

On the late and lamented list: Noon on Bathurst near Dupont and Xacutti. Their brunch was fantastic.

[Googs]

So you loved the brunch at Xacutti, did ya? He's baaaaack.
http://www.sbcto.com/

[MelodySoul]

Went to BOOM on St. Clair W. for the first time today, since it's in our neighbourhood. It was nice, nothing really special about the food but good overall. The service was good, they are quite attentive to the customers and it's a really cute little place.

[danipixy]

-try the spicy pilgrim sausage @ Butlers Pantry (queen w.)
-Mildred Pierce (random side st. off dovercourt) is a lovely (slightly expensive) place with mimosas, fresh baked scones and beautiful victorian decor
-Uncles and Aunties uses hallah egg bread for their breakfast sandwiches- brilliant!

[TorontoJo]

Mildred Pierce has been closed for a year. Mildred's Temple Kitchen is now open on Hanna St.

[halugii]

waffles from aunties and uncles!!!! and the tomato soup with chickpea and caramelized onion!

[Boop]

South Mississauga I have to vote for The Orchard on Hurontario between Queensway and Dundas. Prices are reasonable, food is good and plentiful, lightening fast service. Old school diner, been there for decades, most of the waitresses probably been there since its inception, and have the attitudes to go along with it.

[rexwood]

ive been to the orchard i have to agree with you i also trird the bounty on dundas past the 427 found it very good the hungry mans meal also the grille for a cheap brakfast during the wk

[SpiceMustFlow]

I've had a few decent brunches at the Rebel House on Yonge at Rosedale Station- but part of the appeal is the very pretty patio. The eggs bennie is good, but not good enough to warrant the strangely diffident service and the truly awful coffee.

Much better coffee and an interesting menu is at Fire On The East Side, on Gloucester at Yonge. The place gets packed on the weekend, so it's worth it to call ahead for a reservation. A new favourite.

Also like Aunties and Uncles, but not so much the line up...

[mykeylykey]

My picks for best breakfast eats . . .

FUNKY/RETRO DINER
flo's (yorkville ave)
mel's (beaches)

OLD SCHOOL DINER
fran's (college/yonge)
shanghai cowgirl (queen w)

HIP, INDIE, NEIGHBOURHOOD
auntie's and uncles (college/bathurst)
grapefruit moon (bathurst/n. of bloor)
mitzi's (roncenvalles/dundas)

HOLE IN THE WALL
sunset grill (beaches)
maggie's (college/bathurst)

FAMILY
steve's (bathurst/hwy 401)

CHAINS
denny's
wimpy's

[Sui_Mai]

Our local is just great - Bar One at Queen and Shaw. They make fantastic hollandaise and know how to cook (not over-cook) an omelet. The service is nice too. Nice and cozy for brunch too!

[Yum2MyTum]

Just had brunch at Bar One and it was so delicious. I had the Ovo Buco (egg in a hole, with smoked salmon, brie and spicy hollandaise), and my brunch partner had the Bar One brunch. Killer pancakes! Everything was delicious, from coffee to the bread, to the eggs, to the hollandaise. I will be back for sure!

[Sui_Mai]

Just tried something new there for brunch last weekend:

Roast Beef Benito (I guess Italian for Benny)

It had caramelized onions and arugula with the poached eggs and hollandaise - only thing I didn't like was half the plate was "decorated" in dijon mustard swirls (like about 5 teaspoons worth!). Kinda off-putting for breakie. But man what a nice brunch item.

[Yum2MyTum]

Oh that sounds delicious (except for the mustard swirls). They do try for presentation and normally I appreciate the effort!

One other place I tried out recently is Pico. Wanted a table at Petit Dejeuner but there was a mad lineup. There was a 30 minute wait between putting in our order and receving food... I had poached eggs w/ smoked salmon on brioche, which came with some decent homefries (although quite a few charred potatoes). The server asked how I'd like the eggs done (soft, medium, hard) and I asked for soft. They came as ordered, which was a nice touch, but the meal didn't transcend the sum of its parts... I'd rate it a 7. Coffee/all other aspects of service were quite slow. I guess they're working out their new-resto kinks?

[Googs]

Pico isn't new. It's simply been rebranded. The kinks are permanent.

[Yum2MyTum]

Oh. That's unfortunate. Thanks for the headsup Googs!

[ayl]

Maggie's! I don't know what the deal is with Aunties and Uncles. I've been there a couple of times with friends and besides the decor nothing really strikes me. And I'm not even sure how I feel about their potatoe salad...seemed like the potatoe was undercooked and the mayo was runny?

[Ediblethoughts]

Tried out Bar One for brunch based on recommendations here and I was very disappointed. The Ovo Buco, which I had been thinking about ordering for weeks and so was very excited about, was dry and the brie very easy to not notice at all. And while the omlette of the day was interesting, it was very greasy. The coffees (a latte and a regular coffee) were both incredibly weak. The blueberry pancake was fine but I actually prefer Golden Griddle. Also brunch places that only offer white bread start off with marks against them for me--even if it is crostini. The service was quite friendly and fast but it doesn't make up for the food. Next time I'm in the neighbourhood, I'll go back to Saving Grace.

[Yum2MyTum]

Oh dear, Ediblethoughts. Sorry you didn't enjoy your experience at all! And especially the ovo buco. I can't disagree with any of your descriptions - I have a different take on the matter. To me, the bread base could be called a bit on the dry side but the runny yolk was better absorbed by it over time. It was light and fluffy and in my mind, a good foil for the richness of the dish. Also the brie added to the texture of the dish more than the flavour. I guess I just really liked the combination of flavours and textures! Hate being disappointed at brunch though, so am sorry if I misled!

I will have to get to Saving Grace sometime soon. Is there something there that you can recommend that's hot, and not too greasy? Hoping that there's no bad food karma between us!

[Ediblethoughts]

Different tastes for different hounds. Or something like that. I see how you could take the dish that way. I was hoping for gooey brie. I always hope for soft gooey brie! (Any post made in good faith is good food karma!)

I haven't been to Saving Grace for quite a bit (I used to have more time to go to Queen West for brunch--now we do brunch much less frequently and usually stay closer to home). I think I had specials at Saving Grace much of the time I went---something with a Mexican twist if I recall correctly. I really liked their breads---a whole bunch to choose from and one that had an Indian twist (not naan--something more interesting... can't remember). If you go, please let me know what you think.

[Neverever]

Aunties and uncles
le petit dejuner
saving grace

[jon.russell1212]

I like Boom Breakfast on College St. Always delicious!! Its a real neighbourhood hangout and has a lot more personality than any of the chains.

[monsterkookies]

I think that Sadies Diner (if you're Vegetarian or Vegan or even if you aren't) is pretty damn tasty for breakfast, as is Le Petit Dejeuner. I used to go there for Brunch and get their waffles and a pint of Guiness - I know, the breakfast of champions... haha. But I remember the maple syrup came in these lil' glass ramekins that had a naked lady at the bottom. It always made me giggle, but that could have been the Guiness. :P

[food face]

Hate to _____in your cornflakes, but Sadies is horrible in every respect. Rude dirty looking cooks and servers. The surliest waitress' I've ever experienced and terrible food all round.

[Niki1373]

Never been but the owner frequents my dog park with sadie - I should check it out.

[Sui_Mai]

I am very sad to report that Easy has gone way downhill. Stale spelt toast (or worse- freezerburnt). moldy greens. eggs not cooked to order - all these on repeated visites - what a shame, it used to rule.

[Niki1373]

I SO disagree. I am there all the time and still one of my favourite breakfast places in the City. I love the egg white omellete with goat cheese and roasted red peppers. Also, the BEST coffee in town (Illy).

[jones99]

Beacher Cafe in the Beaches!

[Full tummy]

What do you recommend?

[toveggiegirl]

The Universal Grill has great huevos rancheros.

[Sarah Cat]

I just had the BEST cuban brunch at Delux!! It blew me away. Was actually one of the best meals I've had in the city in a while.

[Yum2MyTum]

Hi Sarah Cat - can you please elaborate on what kind of food was served at this Cuban brunch?

[chocabot]

agree that the delux brunch is a favourite.

menu here.
http://deluxrestaurant.ca/menu/brunch...

[Niki1373]

Easy in Parkdale (at Queen and Ronces). The Drake is nice because you can sit on the patio but the menu is getting kind of boring. Recently I've gone to Burger Bar in Kensington and was really pleased. If you go on the last Sunday of the month, they close the streets in Kensington Market for a mini street festival, so after brekkie you can walk around and take in the vintage shops, street performers and other neat stuff.

[Ediblethoughts]

What does Burger Bar have for brekkie?

[jaikaran]

If you like an English breakfast, then try Melody Cafe on Weston Road (Weston/Steeles).
Proper breakfast !!! Pure hangover cure !!

[toveggiegirl]

If you like sweet crepes, Crêpes à GoGo (at Yonge & Yorkville) has a lot to choose from including some great sweet & savoury ones (like raspberry jam with brie).
http://www.crepesagogo.com/menu.html

[food face]

Crepes a Go Go is good but overpriced. The owner also has a habit of being too friendly to the point of being a nuisance with her problemes and woes to regulars. I stopped going because of this. A lovely lady and a good business owner who puts love into it but when I spend $8 on a crepe, leave me alone to enjoy it please! One more thing I don't like about Crepe's a Go-Go is they tend to get distracted when they cook the crepe and overcook it till it's like a cracker. They do have the best selection of fillings with brie being hard to find in Torontro Creperies. I prefer Crepe it Up now. Other than the lack of brie, it is almost half the price. Great unintrusive but lovely staff. They also are accomidating to how you like your crepe (crispy vs non-crispy). They also are comparitively way more generous with their fillings, especially with their desert crepes. Nutella and Dolce de Leche is really packed in their opposed to Crepe's a Go-Go that gives you more of a light smearing. Try both and decide for yourself.

[euryleia]

I recently went in to try Crepes a Go Go as I work in the area. I asked for a different cheese and the owner lost it, told me her crepes were perfectly designed and there could be no changes from the menu. I was so stunned that I responded in French that I would go elsewhere and she began insulting me for having no taste. You call that a lovely lady?

[food face]

Yea. I am not suprised. I didn't want to cut her down too much as CH's get defensive about Crepes a Go Go and seems to be a real Darling around here. I feel for you. That is really shitty.

[LTL]

I too sympathize with you as I had a similarly wretched experience with the service at Crepes a Go Go a month or two ago. I ordered a crepe that came with scrambled eggs, dill and red onions to go. Upon arrival back at the office, I bit into the crepe only to discover that they omitted the scrambled eggs. Once I opened the crepe to verify this, I called the cafe and told them what happened. They took my name down, told me to come back in for a refund or re-order (my choice). Three days later, I went back in, presented my receipt and asked for a refund. I was answered with rolling eyes by two servers as they "whispered" loudly enough to one another about me. When they finally reluctantly presented my refund, one of the servers asked me three times if I was sure I wasn't "mistaken as people who aren't used to eating crepes can easily not realize how crepes should be". The gall! As if I'm such a nitwit that I can't tell whether a major large component is in the crepe or not. Needless to say, I stood my ground, took my money and vowed never to return.

[food face]

Yes, I have used to go very frequently and know that her staff is in constant rotation. One of the qualifications to work there is that you have to be fluent in the French language. This cancels out lots of potential great employees and widdles it down to highschool/university students with little to no experience or drive to give good service. I really do love Crepe it Up in the Church Wellesley Villiage. Way cheaper, just as good quailty and much for generous with their fillings. Every crepe is poured fresh. Best of all, no drama and truly kind and accomidating staff and owner.

[C mac]

Never even heard of it. Will give it a try!

[TorontoJo]

Since this thread is still going (4 years on!), I'll chime in with my current favourite weekend brunch spot -- Lola's Commissary. I've been there 3 times since I discovered it last month and have had really great food and service each time. I love the space and I love that when I get there when it opens, there isn't a line out the door. :)

The eggs rancheros and eggs Lola are fantastic, the coffee is strong and tasty and they actually squeeze the orange and grapefruit juice to order. Not cheap, but good value. Super friendly service. I think another visit this weekend is in order.

[ms. cornbread]

I have to second Lola's Comissary, one of the best brunch experiences of the past year (if not the best). Large portions, and the eggs Lola are one of the best take on eggs benny that I've ever encountered. Food is fresh and super tasty. And best of all, NO lines!!

[abigllama]

A 3rd vote Lola's, it my favourite in the city right now. The fact that it's just down the street for me is bonus, but really feel it's beyond neighbourhood gem and is really a destination for brunch. Not a huge fan of the sexy potatoes but everything else I've had has been great. Just like TorontoJo the Eggs Lola and Eggs Ranchero are my fave dishes on the menu.

[TorontoJo]

Totally agree on the sexy potatoes. They are the weakest component of the meals I've had. I'll stick to the salad or the fries. We drive in from Yonge/York Mills, so it's definitely a destination for us. :)

[CocoTO]

Has anyone been to Luna Cafe on Dovercourt (at Argyle) recently? I haven't been for a while but used to LOVE that place for a Sunday morning breakfast ...

[Jules1155]

I would add Morning Glory cafe, 457 Queen East, closed Tues/Wed. It's excellent, homestyle food. Crowded little hole in the wall but the very fresh omelettes and coffee make up for that. Their website is down for the count for some reason.

[hans]

So how about anything chow-worthy (breakfast especially but others welcome) near the Sheraton at 123 Queen? I haven't seen anything in this thread yet to make me hopeful.

[good4me]

Was driving along York Mills the other day near Don Mills and saw a sign in front of a plaza saying "Cora ... Opening Soon" ... Looks like Cora is finally going to mid town. I live in the area and this is great as we need more breakfast/brunch alternative in that area

[tochowchick]

I wouldn't be too excited about this...I find Cora's over priced and the food mediocre...not a fan...

[thenextbite]

Oh, tochowchick, I couldn't agree more!!! "You can always buy better, but you'll never pay more!" is a saying my hubby applies to this place all the time... I really don't see what people see in it.

[BritInTO]

Its replacing Shoeless joes in the plaza there. Not much of an improvement. Looking forward to the fox and fiddle that is opening across the street, if anything just for a change of afternoon beer spot other than kelseys.

[good4me]

Oh. Shoeless Joe there was kind of empty there always. In regardless I am a breakfast/brunch person. So i welcome any additional dining options in that category in the area ( really there are not that many breakfast/brunch alternative in the vicinity) Heard that home depot is moving in that area as well, looks like that intersection will become really busy.

[BritInTO]

The Artisan bakery is pretty good and open for breakfast.

Our company pays for a managers breakfast once in a while at Winfields at York Mills/Leslie but its not that good.

[good4me]

Never tried Artisan. Will try. Thanks for the suggestion. I tried Winfield before , . Yes agreed it was just ok... Don't really like the atmosphere.