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I've been waiting to try a couple of spots that I saw in the Toronto Star's "The Morning After" column. They seemed to get good reviews...
The Westerly ("ooey-gooey Monte Cristo sandwich" got top marks)
13 Roncesvalles Ave.
www.thewesterlyrestaurant.com
&
Uncle Betty's (raves about the "Breakfast in a Bowl"
)2590 Yonge St.
www.unclebettys.com›4 Replies -
Looking for a great breakfast place mid-town Toronto, didn't want to start a new thread. I am looking for a non-chain place that serves tasty and unique breakfasts. For example, in San Francisco I recently had a delicious rhubarb pancake at one place (and my husband had french toast with blueberry reduction), and amazing beignets at another (flavours were: crawfish, granny smith, and chocolate). Portions need not be huge and price should be no more than $15 per entree.
What I am not looking for is a chain restaurant that serves a breakfast that I could probably make better myself at home.
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re: TeacherFoodie
TorontoJo
Apr 23, 2012 04:31 AM
Hmm, that's a tough one. I'm a big breakfast/brunch fan, I live in North Toronto and have done a lot of exploring of local options. Unfortunately, all of the really interesting spots are downtown. Once place you might want to check out is Vivetha in the Yonge/Lawrence neighbourhood. It's good quality and really good value. The menu is a tad more interesting than a regular breakfast joint, though not up to the interest level of a place like Lola's Kitchen. Here's a thread with some reviews and descriptions of the food from me and others:
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re: TeacherFoodie
Googs
Apr 23, 2012 07:17 AM
You're in brunch, not breakfast, territory. If brunch suggestions help, you might consider strolling down Mt Pleasant south of Eglinton once the weather's nice. Here's Simple Bistro's brunch menu. There are more places that you can find in the area with your feet and your nose. If MP & Eg suggestions are useful to you, perhaps others can suggest more.
http://www.simplebistro.com/Home_file...-
re: Googs
prima
Apr 28, 2012 09:58 PM
Agree that Simple is a good place to brunch in midtown.
I like the offerings at Aroma Espresso Bar at Yonge & Eg. It's a coffee shop rather than a restaurant. Some of the breakfast offerings are interesting. http://www.aroma.ca/menu/our-breakfasts/
Caffe Latte also has some nice paninis available for breakfast. It's also more of a coffee shop, but I like eating there at breakfast time.
Homeway on Mount Pleasant near Eglinton is also open for breakfast. Mostly typical diner items, but you can add blueberries or chocolate chips to your pancakes, they use challah in their french toast,they also offer benedicts, and they open at 8 am. http://www.homewayrestaurant.ca/the-homeway-restaurant-breakfast-menu.html
http://www.homewayrestaurant.ca/the-h...
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re: wano
ingloriouseater
Apr 23, 2012 06:32 AM
yes to barque-huge portions, great service
no to mildred's temple kitchen-mostly due to poor staff-starting from texting hostesses
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re: TeacherFoodie
I am looking for a weekend breakfast spot in Yonge and Eglinton area, however, it could be a few blocks south, north, or east of there as well. Unfortunately I am North of the city so will have to drive or take the subway to get there.
Portion size is not important - it is more quality and uniqueness I am interested in.
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re: Luvtooeat
Funny thing about fry basket. I used to eat breakfast at the midway all the time and never even noticed the fry basket. One time I was telling a lady at work a story about eating at the miday at 3am and she asked "do you prefer midway or fry basket"?
never even noticed it was there. Next time i was in the area I tried fry basket and I coudn't believe how similar it was. Too bad Midway closed. I love the fact they were 24 hours.
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re: TeacherFoodie
TorontoJo
Apr 24, 2012 06:02 PM
Just a heads up that while I like Good Bite and I love Fry Basket (it's one of my regular breakfast destinations), they are both diners serving regular diner-style breakfasts. Neither has the type of "unique" breakfast items you say you're looking for.
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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
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re: BritInTO
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.
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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.
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Morning Glory Cafe
457 King St E, Toronto, ON M5A1L6, CA -
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TorontoJo
Jan 17, 2011 03:58 PM
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.
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re: ms. cornbread
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.
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If you like an English breakfast, then try Melody Cafe on Weston Road (Weston/Steeles).
Proper breakfast !!! Pure hangover cure !!›7 Replies-
re: lovemysweets
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-----
Crepes A GoGo
18 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M4W1L4, CA-
re: toveggiegirl
food face
Jan 7, 2011 02:57 AM
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.
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re: food face
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?
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re: euryleia
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.
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re: LTL
food face
Jan 17, 2011 03:46 PM
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.
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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.
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The Universal Grill has great huevos rancheros.
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Universal Grill
1071 Shaw St, Toronto, ON M6G3N4, CA›3 Replies-
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re: Sarah Cat
chocabot
Dec 11, 2010 09:44 AM
agree that the delux brunch is a favourite.
menu here.
http://deluxrestaurant.ca/menu/brunch...
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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
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Le Petit Dejeuner
191 King St E, Toronto, ON M5A1J5, CA›2 Replies -
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Ediblethoughts
Jan 3, 2010 07:35 AM
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.
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re: Ediblethoughts
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!
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re: Yum2MyTum
Ediblethoughts
Jan 3, 2010 04:06 PM
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.
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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?
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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!
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re: Sui_Mai
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!
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Bar One
924 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J1G6, CA-
re: Yum2MyTum
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.
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re: Sui_Mai
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?
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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...
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Rebel House
1068 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4W2L4, CAAunties and Uncles
74 Lippincott St, Toronto, ON M5S2P1, CA›1 Reply-
re: SpiceMustFlow
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
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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.
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-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!›1 Reply -
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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.
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re: Adrock75
Googs
Jan 14, 2009 08:11 AM
So you loved the brunch at Xacutti, did ya? He's baaaaack.
http://www.sbcto.com/
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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.
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Harbord House www.harbordhouse.ca
Awesome, all on-site home-made food, great prices, relaxed atmosphere. -
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
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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.
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re: missyoulikegravy
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.
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betsythedairycow
Mar 8, 2008 07:55 AM
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.
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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.
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re: bogie
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.
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re: thenextbite
Full tummy
Dec 20, 2009 11:30 AM
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.
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re: bogie
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.
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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
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re: snackboy
velouria
Feb 17, 2008 09:28 AM
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!
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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.
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Merriam
Oct 16, 2007 01:48 PM
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 -
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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.
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re: Tzero
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.
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re: jayzie1
Food Tourist
Jul 20, 2008 10:31 AM
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.
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re: jayzie1
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.
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re: weekerrie
Googs
Apr 27, 2009 05:36 AM
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.
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re: weekerrie
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.
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I'm looking for a great breakfast place north of Steeles (b/w Bathurst and Leslie/Don Mills). Thanks.
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re: LikeTheWolf
jonnybee
Feb 6, 2007 09:08 AM
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.
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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.
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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 -
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!
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Cereal Killer
Jan 16, 2007 02:07 PM
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
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re: Cereal Killer
Cereal Killer
Jan 25, 2007 06:33 AM
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
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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 (416) 237-9414 . 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.
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re: justlogic
Cereal Killer
Jan 16, 2007 02:02 PM
Hounders were just talking about creme de la creme the other day: http://www.chowhound.com/topics/356222
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re: camp1980
nummanumma
Jan 12, 2007 09:42 PM
and *I* can't believe no one has mentioned Bar One out on Queen West- it is my favorite breakfast, along with Hart House.
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re: Tboy
deelicious
Jan 11, 2007 07:56 PM
I agree. I see those line ups and figure it is largely from the hotels and locals who have little choice in the area.
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re: nic1
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.
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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 :)
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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
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re: downtown
Cereal Killer
Jan 9, 2007 01:16 PM
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
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re: Cereal Killer
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.
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re: John Dory
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.
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Mitzis Cafe & Gallery
100 Sorauren Ave, Toronto, ON M6R2E2, CA -
re: John Dory
ingloriouseater
Jun 28, 2010 03:00 PM
breakfast standards
mitzi's Breakfast
Two eggs any style with Sourdough Toast, Home fries & your choice of Bacon, Sautéed Tomato or Fishcakes $6.95
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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.
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re: Peechie
deelicious
Jan 8, 2007 03:23 PM
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.
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re: Peechie
deelicious
Jan 8, 2007 03:30 PM
Because The Senator is one street over. And because the original poster was asking for the best breakfast joint in TO.
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re: Peechie
deelicious
Jan 8, 2007 03:57 PM
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.
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re: deelicious
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.
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re: Peechie
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).
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Cereal Killer
Jan 8, 2007 01:51 PM
Musa at Dundas and Euclid is my current brunch crush, although I often return to the well of Aunties and Uncles.
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re: Cereal Killer
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?
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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.
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Food Tourist
Jan 8, 2007 02:13 AM
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!
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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.
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re: LK1975
Jenn and Al
Feb 6, 2007 06:48 AM
...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.
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re: Jenn and Al
akyra
Jan 14, 2009 08:43 AM
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 ...
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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›4 Replies-
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re: hungryabbey
redhead
Dec 20, 2006 11:28 PM
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!)
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TorontoJo
Nov 26, 2006 10:19 PM
Two of my favourites: Aunties and Uncles (College and Lippincott) and Sugar Cafe (Queen and Shaw-ish).
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re: JMHewer
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.
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Googs
Nov 25, 2006 10:13 PM
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.
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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...
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xtal
Nov 25, 2006 06:30 PM
My personal favourite is Daybreak at Church & Carlton. Cheap, cheerful, good food, good service. Can't be beat after a long night out. :)
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re: xtal
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.
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re: jjmellon
VivekS
Jan 23, 2011 12:13 PM
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-----
Aunties and Uncles
74 Lippincott St, Toronto, ON M5S2P1, CA
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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.
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re: estragon
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.
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re: estragon
BritInTO
Jun 21, 2011 01:55 PM
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.
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Universal Grill
1071 Shaw St, Toronto, ON M6G3N4, CAFaema Cafe
672 Dupont St, Toronto, ON M6G1Z6, CA -
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re: Ediblethoughts
estufarian
Jun 5, 2012 06:48 AM
Sadly, it closed last week. I'm searching for somewhere new (after around 30 years)!
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re: estragon
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-
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re: Yongeman
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.
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