Best of Danforth Thread

[katbri]

Danforth area, from Broadview to Woodbine. Looking for best food, not ambiance, décor or service.

One place per category. Can you also mention if your recommendation does take out.

Best Indian

Best Italian

Best Thai

Best Chinese

Best Mexican

Best Pub

Best Meal under $100

Best Wings

Best Pizza

Best Greek

I think hands down the best fine dining would be Globe, don’t think anything else is in their league in this area.

[KitchenVoodoo]

Globe Bistro is expensive but worth every penny. Excellent food and very warm hospitality.

[asianbettycrocker]

Best Greek? Pantheon by far. The garlic shrimp and fish dishes are the best.
Brunch - Three's Company

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Three's Company
673 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J, CA

[gilbert1111]

Best Indian none on the Danny, and certainly not Sheree-Punjab

Best Italian 7 Numbers, sit in back if you don't like noise

Best Thai none, same btw for sushi

Best Chinese Danforth Dragon

Best Mexican Sol for food but not for service

Best Pub no question - Auld Spot

Best Meal under $100 Embrujo Flamenco Tapas, good food and good fun, 97 Danforth

Best Wings skip the Danforth and go to Duff's, it's not far

Best Pizza don't know

Best Greek I have a long enduring soft spot for Ouzeri's They're tirosalata is to die for

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Danforth Dragon
861 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J, CA

Auld Spot
347 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K, CA

Embrujo
97 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1N2, CA

Ouzeri
500A Danforth Avenue, Toronto, ON M4K 1P6, CA

[phoenikia]

What do you recommend at Auld Spot, gilbert1111?
Has anyone tried the Auld Spot's mac & cheese? Is it any good?

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Auld Spot
347 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K, CA

[phoenikia]

While I would agree that Pantheon is usually the best bet for seafood dishes on the Danforth, especially since their turnover is high because that's where Danforth Greeks tend to go for seafood, other restaurants are better if you're looking for non-seafood dishes.

asianbettycrocker, what do you recommend on the brunch menu at Three's Company?

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Three's Company
673 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J, CA

[asianbettycrocker]

Hmmm, I had the Chicken Pot Pie. It was actually decent. The rest of the table had a variety....waffle special, french toast, egg frittata...the carrot cake and cinnamon buns on the counter looked pretty delicious and it was packed, so the food was pretty fresh. Definitely a fun vibe and good "morning after" kind of place! Hope that helps!

[phoenikia]

Thanks, asianbettycrocker. Sounds like I should give Three's Company another try, next time I'm looking for a decent brunch on the Danforth.

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Three's Company
673 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J, CA

[air621]

Best Indian-Sher E Punjab, I guess. Not much Indian on Danforth

Best Italian-7 #s or for take out, Columbo's Pizza

Best Thai-Not sure, I go to Thai Fusion on Coxwell near O'Connor

Best Chinese-Not sure, I order from Seabreeze on Queen E

Best Mexican-El Sol

Best Pub-Eff Allen's, Auld Spot rulz the Danforth

Best Meal under $100

Best Wings- Allen's

Best Pizza- Danforth Pizza House

Best Greek-Pantheon

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Auld Spot
347 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K, CA

Danforth Pizza
920 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L9, CA

Seabreeze
1342 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4L, CA

Thai Fusion Restaurant
969 Coxwell Ave, Toronto, ON M4C3G4, CA

[LTL]

What about "Best Dessert"? I'm having dinner at Dukem tonight (first time trying Ethiopian so I'm very excited!) and looking for somewhere to go for dessert afterward around 8pm.

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Dukem
950 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1L9, CA

[foodyDudey]

The food at Dukem is good, but just a warning, they don't provide cutlery so bring your own knife and fork, if you require that. For that reason alone, we only order take-out from there.

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Dukem
950 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1L9, CA

[Pincus]

Not a big dessert guy. Off the top of my head, there is Demetre, and Athens Pastries is excellent if you like Greek desserts. Not the hugest sit down space inside Athens, so not the best choice for a huge dinner crowd.

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Athens Pastries
509 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K, CA

[julesrules]

Not a lot of good, non-Greek dessert in the hood. If you like Greek pastries, Akropolis is just a couple of blocks from Dukem (but I am not sure what time they close). Mocha Mocha has a small selection of pies and other homey desserts, but again check to see when they close.

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Mocha Mocha
489 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P5, CA

[phoenikia]

Sadly, the desserts at Demetre can be dreadful. After a particularly bad-tasting pre-made crepe stuffed with canned apple pie filling experience last year, I vowed to stick to coffee or tea if I ever find myself inside Caffe Demetre again.

Second Athens pastries for loukamades, galotoboureko or bougatsa.

Eurocrepe Cafe for nutella-stuffed crepes and the like.

The Globe for good continental/caker desserts that can be ordered in their front lounge.

I like the spanakopita, tyropita and pizza (not authentic pizza, but tasty for what it is, esp. at that price) at Akropolis, but haven't tasted any of their desserts.

[Dr. John]

I'm a very late entry to this thread, but I grew up on the Danforth and have moved back to the Danforth so I wanted to have a say on a few of the categories:

Best Indian - Sher-e-Punjab has been consistently decent for the past 30 years or so

Best Ethiopian - Dukem followed by Wazema. Best for flavours, variety, injera that has a fair bit of teff. Lalibela is pretty good. Rendez-Vous was way too salty. Ibex is unremarkable.

Best Mexican - El Sol for the flavours, but the chicken is often way overcooked. I try to go there not hungry so that by the time the food arrives I am hungry.

Best Greek - for 30+ years, my favourite grilled meats have been at Astoria. For overall well roundedness I'll go with Kalyvia. Pan is good for upscale fusion-y Greek. Avli is great for certain dishes (rabbit pie). Athens Pastries for the galactobouriko.

-John

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Dukem
950 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1L9, CA

Lalibela
869 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G, CA

Avli
401 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P1, CA

El Sol
1448 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1N4, CA

Athens Pastries
509 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K, CA

Kalyvia
420 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P3, CA

Rendez-Vous Restaurant
1213 Pitt St, Cornwall, ON K6J3T3, CA

[Gumbril]

Can anyone tell me which place(s) do the fried dough-balls coated in honey syrup? I had them once at a Taste of Danforth and remember them fondly whenever I want to sicken myself with sweets.

[Full tummy]

Athens Pastries is your best bet for loukoumades:

http://www.chow.com/restaurants/14396...

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Athens Pastries
509 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K, CA

[biffy]

Just wanted to comment on the Best Greek restaurant on Danforth.... I'm Greek and have eaten and virtually all the Greek restaurants on the Danforth. I would say that consistently, the best Greek restaurant on Danforth is AVLI. I have known Lambros for almost 20 years and have eaten in his restaurants in their various incarnations. What I love about Avli is that it is the closest to REAL Greek food that you are going to get, with a nod to the peasant food and vegetarian food traditions of Greece. There is some nod to the chicken souvlaki, rice and potatoes that those that go to the Danforth look for, but a lot of though has gone into the menu with a great nod to the "alternative" cuisine of the motherland.

A lot of posters have mentioned Pantheon and I would like to make a few comments: I have eaten at Pantheon many times because my husband (who is not Greek) likes it there. Pantheon cuts a lot of corners in its cuisine..for example, the dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves) are hard and dried out and the avgolemono sauce is thickened with corn starch (i have noticed this in the avgolemono soup as well) rather than purely being an egg and lemon mixture as it is supposed to be. I also do not care for the accompaniments to the entrees and the curse of the "winter tomatoes" being offered in the horiatiki (village) salad. A true village salad is a celebration of the ripe delicious tomatoes so plentiful in Greece....please please please do not serve underripe hard tomatoes!!! Anyway, just my 2 cents, I realize everyone has different tastes but I trust the reviews on here and always look here first when looking for a new restaurant to try.

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Avli
401 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P1, CA

[phoenikia]

Agree Pantheon often cuts corners.

But I was embarrassed by the terrible avgolemono soup that was served last time I had lunch at Avli. I don't know if they have a different staff working the lunch shift, which might explain the calibre of the food we received. I've also had less-than-fresh fried calamari, and less than fresh seafood pie at Avli at dinner time. Not a great place for seafood. While I have liked the dips, the spanakopita, the loukaniko, and chicken pie at Avli in the past, I find the food at Avli to be hit or miss. Sometimes their food is very good, and sometimes it's awful.

I wish more people supported Lambros (the offshoot of Avli that closed after a short run) while it was open. I liked the food Lambros was serving at Lambros better than much of what I've ordered at Avli.

I usually like the Village Salad at Messini when tomatoes are in season. When tomatoes aren't in season, I stick with the maroulosalata when I'm on the Danforth ;-)

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Messini
445 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P1, CA

Avli
401 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P1, CA

[worker]

Best Indian - Sher E Punjab

Best Italian - il fornello (7 numbers use to be good, now its way overrated)

Best Thai - Diner's Thai

Best Chinese - Danforth Dragon

Best Pub - Rails and Ales

Best Pizza - Danforth Pizza House

Best Greek - Kalyvia

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Danforth Dragon
861 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J, CA

Danforth Pizza
920 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L9, CA

Kalyvia
420 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P3, CA

[somewhere4]

I agree with the emerging consensus (El Sol, etc.), with the exception of Best Pub. What ungodly hold does Allens have over people? Adequate, over-priced food served with a heaping portion of attitude (unless you can guarantee the server a walk-on in your next film/TV series episode). Oh, and you better be a damned fast eater so they can turn over your table to the next set of paying customers (UNLESS you can guarantee....etc., etc.)

My vote for best pub = Brass Taps. Nice selection of imported beers, good burgers (not the best in Toronto, mind you, but as good as any you'll find along the Danforth) and a wide selection of delectable pizzas. They will also accomodate special pizza orders if none of the combinations on offer appeal to you.

[Pincus]

I've been enjoying the Court Jester just west of Pape. Their chef does some nice specials, and sometimes there are even homemade potato chips up for offer at the bar!

Haven't been to Brass Taps in a while, I remember their pizzas with great fondness, they are due for a return visit!

Still trying to decide whether Taps and Tales is a destination pub or not. The one meal I had there wasn't awful, but not memorable either.

Agree with Allen's, went there once, and the service was actually good, but the food was mediocre and overpriced.

[phoenikia]

What kind of specials does the chef prepare at the Court Jester?

I often walk by the Court Jester and Brass Taps, but didn't realize that either of them served decent and/or better-than-average food.

Will have to try out the pizza and the burger at Brass Taps one of these days.

[Pincus]

I've had a nice roasted chicken with mash and veggies, also enjoyed his version of a veggie burger which I didn't recognize as an Yves or other similar vendor, so it might have been made there.

[hungryabbey]

They seem to have a lot of comfort type foods.. meatloaf, pulled pork sandwich, mac and cheese, interesting sounding soups.. The menu reads much better than that but I cant remember specifics.
I have actually never gone in, but I read the board every day on the way to the gym and it sounds good.

[julesrules]

I eat at the Jester a lot but not really for chow reasons. I find the kitchen inconsistent. One thing I have enjoyed recently is the cabbage rolls (weekend special). They used to have perogies on special sometimes too and these were good. Other than that, eh. Specials can be okay, I like the homemade buttermilk salad dressing, but I can't really say it's good eating overall. But for better or worse I guess it's our pick for pub on the Danforth - I like the Black Oak pale ale on tap and unpretentious atmosphere.
Taps and Tails has some interesting items on their menu board but I've never checked it out.

[Pincus]

Yeah, some of the pub grub at the Jester is mediocre, I had a forgettable plate of nachos there last week.

I had a "risotto" at Taps and Tales which was edible, but not remarkable. Still, I can't judge a place on one meal.

[julesrules]

After two lunches at Taps and Tales I think it might be about on par with the Jester. Some good items, homemade cheesecake, but some just ok stuff too. Decent tap list though, and virtually all Canadian beers from smaller breweries (except for Guiness)

[julesrules]

Taps and Tales has overtaken the Jester for me for both food and tap list. Had a tasty red snapper special with guacomole and roasted corn/cherry pepper salsa and Dennison's Weissbeir, perfect for what might have been my last patio lunch of the year yesterday. I think specials are the way to go here because the meatball sub I had a couple of months ago was also really good, while regular menu items seem kind of limited. But I think it's the housemade desserts that are the clincher for me. Best bread pudding of my life yesterday. The only problem is that they plate some of them with a yucky commercial chocolate sauce. The Jester's apple crisp is housemade and decent but their other desserts are crappy food service quality. Taps and Tales switches up their selection and so far, all have been very good (in a homemade way ie/ not fancy).

[neighborguy]

Thanks julesrules. I haven't been to Taps and Tales since the summer but I really want to like them. Last time there, I ordered something unmemorable off the menu, tho not as unmemorable as the 'food' at Sarah's. ;)

[Pincus]

Thanks, I'll keep an eye open for the specials at Taps and Tales. it's a bit closer anyway.

[Pincus]

I've been enjoying some of the specials at Taps and Tales. You're right, they are generally a bit nicer than what is on offer at the Court Jester (although I still go to the Jester once in a while). I especially enjoy the Tuesday night spaghetti and meatballs at T & T.

[phoenikia]

Which pizzas would you recommend the most at Brass Taps, somewhere4 & Pincus?

[Pincus]

I recently had a veggie one (but with fancy vegetables like sun dried tomatoes and eggplant) which I quite enjoyed. I think they offer about 10-15 vairieties as their specials. I think you can build your own, but I'm not sure. I almost never get meat on a pizza, so I'm a bad choice to ask about how the meat pizzas are.

They also give you some flavoured olive oils to drizzle on your pizza if you're into that.

I suggest going on Wednesday, they are half-price then, so the sting of a failed experiment around your tastebuds isn't so bad. But for a bar pizza, the ones I've had have been really good, so I don't think you'lll suffer as long as you're not expecting Libretto,

[hungryabbey]

Have you tried anything else other than pizza at the Brass Taps??

[foodyDudey]

I've tried the wings there. They are 1/2 price on Mondays. They also have a good selection of draft beer such as Creemore and Beau's.

[phoenikia]

Good to know. Thanks for the Monday wing tip, foodyDudey ;-)

[foodyDudey]

Better go before Jan 1st when you start eating that rabbit food!

[phoenikia]

That's the plan! ;-)

Which reminds me...has anyone seen a Buffalo Chicken Salad (basically an iceberg lettuce salad with Buffalo wing sauce-coated chicken breast strips/chicken fingers, blue cheese crumbles and/or blue cheese dressing) on the Danforth?

It's on the menu at the Richmond Rogue, and I could order a salad and add chicken & wing sauce at Duff's, but I haven't noticed Buffalo Chicken Salad on any other menus in TO.

[millygirl]

Is the pizza thick or thin crust?

[phoenikia]

Thanks, Pincus. I tend to order veggie pizzas, too, although, sometimes I'm more in the mood for an old school version with sausage or pepperoni.

Thanks for mentioning the half-price Wed ;-)

Don't worry, I won't expect Libretto. To tell you the truth, I crave good but typical Ontario-style pizza more than I crave the types of pizzas served by Libretto or QMP.

[eastendpioneer]

Okay, better late then never, I guess:

Best Indian - Sher E Punjab (or order from Famous on Gerrard which delivers!!)

Best Italian - 7 Numbers

Best Thai - Jean's Vegetarian Kitchen

Best Mexican - El Sol (yes, service is mildly slow on mains, but apps come out fairly quickly)

Best Pub - Taps & Tales (@ Linsmore)

Best Pizza - Gerrard Spaghetti House

Best Greek - I have a soft spot for Astoria, but I also love Ouzeri. Their Rosemary Pie is absolutely to DIE for!!!

Three's Company makes really good brunch as does Globe Bistro.

[Poorboy]

Best Pizza - Danforth Pizza House it's been debated before.

[melos]

I feel that since I am a veteran of the Danforth area (17 years), I should contribute to this thread.

For every "BEST OF", it is important to consider other factors which make a place on the Danforth, the BEST OF something. I divide the categories in the following areas and in order of importance:
1. Food Quality and drink choices
2. Price
3. Service quality
4. Ambiance
5. Overall Customer experience

That being said, here are the choices which would not disappoint:
1. Best Indian - Shar E Punjab (although we are so close to Gerrard and Coxwell for the BEST Indian choices ever)
2. Best Italian - 7 Numbers - but I wish their portions and quality would improve.
3. Best Thai - Diner's Thai ... so far.
4. Best Chinese - nothing authentic. Go to Gerrard St - Eikona.
5. Best Mexican - El Sol ... in laid back Mexican time.
6. Best Pub - Auld Spot - Food, price, beers and ambiance no doubt
7. Best Meal under $100 - Auld Spot Pub - try the flat iron steak salad or the strploin and you'll see what I mean.
8. Best Wings - Brass Taps - Monday nite 1/2 price!!!
9. Best Pizza - Mamma's Pizza is good but Pizza is not at the top of the food choice and its fast food.
10. Best Greek - Mezes or Avli - No doubt.
11. Best Sushi is Aji Sai but they need to have "happier" service staff.
12. Best Breakfast greasy spoon - Detroit eatery - Chris will fix u up.

Honorable mentions - Mambo Lounge for Latin foodfare and flare, Mocha Mocha for great lunches and healthy eating, Alexandros has the tastiest Gyro around.

I believe a place has to be best all around and I would have to add some comment on the places recommended in this thread but I think it should not.
Globe - too pricey but that is elegant fine dining.
Melanie's - good food and service but YIKES no ambiance, no customer experience. They played elevator music while we were dining.
Allen's - There is no reason to eat there... maybe just for the whiskey and Guinness.
Messinis - bland tasting Gyro.
Danforth Dragon is disappointing.

I like discovering new places on the Danforth but until the places put more attention to the above 5 categories in detail, I would rather cook at home.

[duckdown]

I guess I'd do the obvious and pick Messini for Gyros, although if thats the best in the city... kind of a bummer. They're good, but not amazing

Who's got the best chicken souvlaki? Big, chunks of charcoal grilled chicken.. I guess I'd vote Astoria

[bittermu]

Better late than never?

Best Indian: Sher-e-punjab
It's been consistently tasty for me.

Best Italian: Still looking ...

Best Thai: Gotta go with Jean's, simply because it isn't horrible.

Best Mexican: El Sol
As childofthestorm mentioned, it's slowwwwww, but the food is tasty and portions large.

Best Pub: The Auld Spot
Good taps, solid menu. I can't get enough of the mac 'n cheese with crab.

Best Meal under $100: Bistro Camino
Simple and good.

Best Wings: Allens
Not that I'm necessarily a fan, but everything else has simply been worse.

Best Pizza: Gerrard Spaghetti and Pizza House. (Take out)
Killer pizzas and they actually appreciate your business.

Best Greek: Christinas

Other bests mentioned:

Best Brunch: Threes Company (@ Pape)
Great benny and pulled pork poutine (topped with a fried egg).

Best Ethiopian: Rendez-vous
Great portions and big taste.

Best Burger: Square Boy
Could also sub in as Best Greek or, at the very least, Best Entertainment.

[katbri]

I've never read anything about Three's Company mentioned on this board. I checked out their website and it looks good. Anybody have any reviews on brunch or dinner menu.

[foodyDudey]

Unless you somehow have audio on the board, you won't hear anything. :-)

It's been mentioned in at least 7 threads
http://search.chow.com/search?query=%...

My wife and I tried it a few weeks after they moved to the location near Pape, and we were not impressed. They probably improved as it seems to be busy enough to survive.

[Pincus]

Had brunch there once about a month ago, it was adequate but didn't blow my socks off. Wouldn't go out of my way to eat there, but wouldn't avoid it if I was nearby and hungry.

[mariecollins]

Not necessary the best but some other alternatives:

Best Pub: TKO's - comfort food and a good place to catch a game
Best Sandwich: any panini from Quattro Ragazze. Other offerings are good too.
Best meal under $100: Melanies
Best Pizza: Colombo's or for convenience, Pizza Nova at Glebemount & Danforth - order online and pick-up
Best Ethiopian: Rendez-vous
Best Roti - Ital veggie roti at Danforth Roti (OK we've strayed out to Dawes).
Best Thai: Jean's Vegetarian

[foodyDudey]

When is the last time you ate anything from Quattro Raggaze?

You said not the best but then prefaced each suggestion with "Best" !
Is Melanies really any good? I can think od many of other places to eat for under $100

[Paulustrious]

Melanie's is good - but not my favourite $sub-ton.

Marie - isn't Pizza Nova on the corner of Woodbine and Danforth? I will try your roti suggestion as I usually head up to Eglinton / Lawrence.

[mariecollins]

Pizza Nova is opposite East Lynn Park - perhaps the street is not Glebemount but Glebeholme? I always get them mixed up.

Quality varies at Danforth Roti. The Ital roti has always been pretty good and the doubles and aloo pie are fresh and tasty. Report back if you have a meat roti.

Marie

What's the best greasy spoon for breakfast on the Danforth? I've had two nasty breakfasts in a row at the Terminal, Sunrise is unremarkable, and the rest of them look a little scary.

[Paulustrious]

I get them confused, and I only live 100yd from it.

Greasy spoon. I presume we mean a proper one, with real grease. I've had a couple of reasonable breakfasts at the New York cafe (?) SE corner of Broadview & Danforth. My So prefers Melanie's and another SE corner spot which houses a more Earth-friendly eco-organic vibe. I cannot remember the name of the place. It's a long thin North-South cafe with a serving counter down the West wall.

[cinda]

When in need of a greasy spoon hangover cure and a damn fine burger, IMO, we often head to Detroit Eatery on Danforth near Chester. Chris and the rest of the staff couldn't be nicer.

[AntontheGreek]

Greasy Spoon? Detroit Eatery hands down

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Detroit Eatery
389 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P1, CA

[Full tummy]

What do you recommend there?

[phoenikia]

I like Detroit's Greek omelette, and their home fries.

Currently Detroit serves my favourite home fries in TO.

[millygirl]

Good BLT's too!

[Googs]

The home fries. Are they deep-fried or the real deal?

[phoenikia]

They looked pan-fried to me. With paprika and onions, and maybe some garlic or seasoning salt? A little greasy, with crispy bits. Might have to try them again tomorrow to double-check.

For Chowhounds who haven't dined at Detroit Eatery, it is downmarket atmosphere-wise. I don't want any Chowhounds to travel all the way from Etobicoke/Mississauga/Guelph to try the recommended home fries/Greek omelette/BLT, and then post that Detroit Eatery wasn't all that and by the way, the bathroom wasn't pretty. Although I'm sure Googs already realizes this ;-) Detroit ain't the King Eddy ;-)

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Detroit Eatery
389 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P1, CA

[millygirl]

Hey phoenikia, have you been to Motorama of late? It's our new greasy spoon hot spot these days. Maria, the relatively new owner, has really spruced things up over there and puts together a very nice omelet.

I just learned yesterday that she used to own Maria's Garden which is now the home of Three's Company. She is so cheerful and welcoming, it's a good part of the reason we've been supporting her.

At the moment she's only open during the day but is considering doing once a month Sunday night dinners on a greek theme. We got talking about this because apparently she makes a fine pasistiso and a number of regulars have been trying to convince her to offer it on the menu.

[phoenikia]

Hi millygirl,

Thanks for the heads up. I haven't had breakfast at Motorama for at least 3 years. I didn't realize Maria had taken took over. Maria's Garden was the go-to alternative to Zorba's for good late-night Greek comfort food before it closed, and quite a few of my friends preferred her food to the food at Zorba's, which can be hit or miss.

Hope she decides to start doing once-a-month Sunday night dinners.

Looks like I'll have to revisit Motorama.

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Zorba's
681 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L2, CA

Motorama Restaurant
862 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L7, CA

[millygirl]

Interesting to hear that. I had never been inside Maria's Garden. Something about the painted vines on the window seemed to steer me in other directions LOL.

[neighborguy]

I got some take-out recently from Zorba's for the first time. And the last. The man at the stove was horrible -- in a foul mood and shouting at all the other staff. I'm glad I don't understand Greek. I don't want to be eating any food prepared by someone like that.

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Zorba's
681 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L2, CA

[phoenikia]

neighbourguy, how was the food?

That's part of the experience at Zorba's- the old guy hollering at his wife or kids, his wife or kids hollering back. Greeks are passionate people.

That being said, most of Chefs working at fine dining establishments I've met have artistic temperaments, and I know several who have tempers. Is it so wrong if the guy at the stove at Zorba's has an artistic temperament, or a temper? ;-) Maybe he had a good reason to be in such a foul mood.

[neighborguy]

phoenikia, I'm glad you asked.

By the time I got home, the pork skewers were dry but everything else was okay, but all to be expected -- meat dries out and steam table food like potatoes and rice can't really change too much in transit. The 'garlic bread' was burned.

While I was waiting for my order I saw the other cook putting together -- with much care -- someone else's order for a large take-out salad. I thought that was a good sign. Until I heard the mean older guy raise his voice at him too. I can't go back after that -- I just don't want that kinda mojo passed onto my food.

[phoenikia]

Glad the food was mostly ok. Zorba's can be very hit or miss. I usually just stick to the avgolemono soup and ask for extra lemon on the side.

If you're looking for take-out souvlaki nearby, try Asteria. Haven't tried the pork skewers, but their chicken skewers have been moist whenever I have ordered them. And the people don't holler inside Asteria ;-) Totally different vibe ;-)

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Zorba's
681 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L2, CA

[julesrules]

Love Zorba's when I am in the mood for a huge heavy meal, with leftovers too, but I definitely stick to the steam table stuff that I can't get elsewhere - fricasse, other stews, the greens, the giant beans. I did branch out to moussaka once and it was decent, not any worse than other versions I've had on the Danforth. But I wouldn't get skewers or other made-to-order food there. Actually I never order skewers out, I always buy them at Ellas and make at home (same for Greek salad)

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Zorba's
681 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L2, CA

[phoenikia]

I had breakfast at Motorama today. Maria was incredibly welcoming- nice perk! You're right, millygirl, she has really spruced up Motorama.

The florentine omelet I ordered was good, filled with a decent amount of spinach and topped with crumbled feta. The hashbrowns were nicely seasoned with paprika, but they were the type that are parboiled then fried.

I prefer the hash browns at Detroit Eatery, but the service at Maria's was very friendly, and the prices were extremely reasonable.

I'll definitely be back to try more dishes on their menu.

-----
Detroit Eatery
389 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P1, CA

Motorama Restaurant
862 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L7, CA

[Pincus]

When you say during the day only, does this include weekend days? Like, even if it's only to 3 pm?

[ParadoxCat]

Do you know what the hours are?

[millygirl]

Pretty sure, it's seven days a week open until 3 or 4 at the latest.

[Googs]

Ah, the lost art of the crisp-outside, tender-inside, pan-fried potato. I've had enough of these places that deep-fry some tater tot like object and call it home fries. Was your father Ronald McDonald?

[Splendid Wine Snob]

The home fries are definitely the real deal. Pan fried for sure.

[justinisthebest]

Detroit?? AMEN!!

The only problem with Motorama is that Maria NEVER SHUTS UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[millygirl]

Well maybe she does talk a lot BUT she is very welcoming, warm and caring. To me it only adds to the charm of the place. It's like being with family. Just tune them out :)

[Poorboy]

Lived in the area for 50 years now and have only been to the Motorama about a half dozen times, and not in the past decade. Now, I have a craving to give it a try. Hope it is open Sunday mornings....

-----
Motorama Restaurant
862 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L7, CA

[millygirl]

Yup, it is open Sundays. Let me know what you think poorboy. We have quickly become regulars.

[mariecollins]

Gee - fussy!

Well, I actually last sat down and had a meal at Quattro in October, it was very nice, I had the Spaghetti Carbonara. I order the Eggplant panini to go a couple of times a month.

The fancier places in my area are Relish, Melanies and Bistro Camino. I enjoy Melanies the most.

Have a baby now and relying much more on the spots in the nabe.

Trying really hard not to give an obnoxious response.

[Full tummy]

Alas, there have been some negative reports on the Board about Quattro Raggaze, from a variety of people. Seems like the quality of the food and service is variable, depending on who's cooking, who's serving, and who else is in the restaurant.

[mariecollins]

I just read the thread on Quattro Raggaze. Doesn't sound like things are going well. I'll keep eating my eggplant panini though.

[Pincus]

Everything on here is an opinion. Some opinions get expressed more strongly than others. I take QR for what it is (i.e. not Mistura) and have enjoyed it always so far. However, I did get a plate there just when they reopened after Christmas where the sauce for their spaghetti and meatballs had a higher amount of olive oil than I like, so I will keep an eye out on it as well.

[eastendpioneer]

They served me Penne Arrabiatta once that was SO hot (spicy) that I couldn't swallow it. I asked them for a milder sauce and they basically laughed at me. I thought maybe it was just me, but I brought the leftovers home to DH who loves loves loves spicy hot food and he said it wasn't even palatable. I won't go back!!

[Pincus]

Must be a recent menu addition, I don't remember seeing that on their old menu.

[JamieK]

I don't think the menu's changed in years. Or at least not since the makeover. I never went when it was Europe Planet.

[katbri]

In my opinion Quattro Ragazze is by far the worse restaurant I have been to on the Danforth, service horrible and food really bad. It is nowhere near decent Italian food.

[ilikefoodalot]

Best Pub - Allen's

Best Greek - Messini for amazing and cheap gyros (fast takeout, too), Pantheon otherwise

Best Brunch - Mocha Mocha

[1sweetpea]

Of the three Ethiopian places I've tried thus far on the Danforth, I quite liked Rendez-vous and Dukem. Lalibela came in third due to the general saltiness of all dishes. I noticed the salt before any complex spicing in every dish. I ate very similarly at each restaurant, so I think it is a fair assessment. I ordered the vegetarian combo at each, but tried a bit of meat (ordered by others) at all three. My next stop will be Wazema. I'm pretty sure all three Ethiopian restaurants offer breakfast, so they might make interesting brunch options as well. Has anyone ever tried an Ethiopian breakfast? Options are heavy in the meat, eggs and beans department, served with injera.

I can't weigh in on most of the OPs categories. When in Toronto I tend to beeline for Greek or Ethiopian when on the Danforth. For seafood, I'd have to add my vote for Pantheon, mezes and pita, I go to the places I know, which are Ouzeri and Mezes. If anyone can recommend a superior spot for the typical appetizer spread, I'm all ears.

[TOFoodFan]

Best Indian - Haven't found one yet, but only for lack of trying. Judging by this thread, I'll try Sher-e-punjab and Makkah

Best Italian - 7 Numbers, best in the city

Best Thai - Jean's Vegetarian

Best Chinese - Number One Chinese (ok, it's actually on Pape)

Best Mexican - Haven't found one yet.

Best Pub - Allen's

Best Meal under $100 - Globe, if you're not drinking. Otherwise, 7 Numbers

Best Wings - Haven't had Danforth wings...

Best Pizza - If we're talking strictly places on the Danforth, then Gerrard Spaghetti and Pizza House; for places that deliver in the area, Bona Pizza (unless it's a bad night. Then it's just mediocre pizza)

Best Greek - Pan for upscale; Messini otherwise

[melnumnums]

What's the best brunch on the Danforth? Looking for anywhere between Broadview and Chester. Winter means I can't head down to Queen.

[LexiFirefly]

Allen's is usually a safe bet. I was down there this summer for brunch and was really disappointed by the new places I tried.

[millygirl]

As I said up above, Mocha Mocha is an excellent spot for brunch.

[Herb]

I prefer the Globe.

[foodyDudey]

Honestly I wouldn't eat at Allen's if the food was free.

[Googs]

You mean there's TWO of us that don't care for Allen's food including that bland meatball they call a burger? Finally.

[Pincus]

Had a forgettable meal there once. Make it three of us.

[foodyDudey]

My wife and I even gave it another try this summer, and it was just as bad as ever. No more tries at Allens's for us. Maybe we should start an "I love Allen's _NOT_ Facebook page?

[foodyDudey]

Hi Googs,
I didn't really want to post that since I've often mentioned it. I'm surprised anyone could have Allen's of a "best of" list. It shows you how diverse people's opinions can be on the same food. That has also made me start wondering how much influence what I read here should have on any new place I try. Allen's is on my "best of the worst" list. :-)

[KitchenVoodoo]

Best Ethopian - so many now on the Danforth between Greenwood and Coxwell it's hard to know which is worth trying - what's the Chowhound consensus?
Best Morroccan - some have sprung up on the same stretch - can anyone offer a compare and contrast eview?

[pakmode]

I'm looking to go out for some Ethiopian soon as well, but need some CH guidance. Any tips would be appreciated.

As for best Moroccan/North African - Djerba La Douce is awesome. Their soup is a must try, I forget the name of it, but it was pureed vegetables with a nice garlic flavour. I also found their Tunisian layered coffee a pleasant surprise (secret ingredient - sweetened condensed milk).

Best Pizza - Danorth Pizza House hands down.

Best Indo-Pak - Makkah Restaurant - it really is south asian comfort food.

Best Burger - i have to try Allen's but based on all the reviews it's up there as one of the Best in T.O.

Best Meal under $100 - Bistro Camino

Should we put a Best Bakery in here too?

[battenberg]

Djerba La Douche; best seafood crepe I have ever had. The sauce is amazing mopped up with some pita bread.

-----
Djerba la Douce
1475 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1N5, CA

[julesrules]

Yeah his crepes are good. I think we had chicken, in a rich creamy curry sauce. Easy to overlook when the focus is couscous dishes, and pretty heavy for an appetizer, but really good.

[foodyDudey]

I thought the crepe was a main entree. If not, it's filling enough to be the main course.

[julesrules]

You are surely right, I just get distracted by the couscous dishes, but I still want crepe!
The calamari, in a rich, cumin-y sauce is also really good. It's all really warming, rich food perfect for winter.

[neighborguy]

Me too -- I always seem to return to the couscous plates. That's why I went out of my way to have lunch there once just to enjoy the seafood crepe. While I've mostly had his chicken merguez couscous I've been with companions who ordered daily fish specials which tasted amazing. Spicing I've had nowhere else.

[Full tummy]

Just thought I'd mention it's Djerba la Douce. And, yes, those crepes are delicious!!

http://www.djerba-la-douce.ca/

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Djerba la Douce
1475 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1N5, CA

[Full tummy]

Best Vegetarian Thai: Jean's Vegetarian Kitchen

[millygirl]

Best brunch or lunch spot - Mocha Mocha
Best sushi - Aji Sai

[childofthestorm]

Best Indian - Makkah for cheap takeout

Best Italian - 7 Numbers

Best Thai - There isn't, go to Sukhothai on Parliament instead please

Best Chinese - Danforth Dragon for delivery, stick to Hakka stuff

Best Mexican - El Sol if you have three hours to spare

Best Pub - Allen's

Best Meal under $100 - 7 Numbers

Best Wings - Allen's

Best Pizza - Danforth Pizza House

Best Greek - Pantheon but stick to seafood and have a whole fish

[grandgourmand]

Can't argue with these picks...but I'd add Makkah to best wings category as well.

[childofthestorm]

Thank you for reminding me to try those!

[grandgourmand]

12 for $6. Tandoori, so nothing crazy, but they use real charcoal in the tandoor, so extra flavour. I've had them dry a couple times, but mostly they have been excellent.

[Paulustrious]

Pretty much hit them all there, including advice to stick to the Hakka stuff. For the meal under $100 I would go to Bistro Camino.

Best Greek - probably not the best but for cheap and home-style, Asteria Souvlaki Place

Best Ethiopian is missing from your list. And so I think is a Best Breakfast. Someone else can add these.

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Bistro Camino
2750 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4C1L7, CA

Asteria Souvlaki Place
292 Danforth, Toronto, ON M4K1N6, CA

[LexiFirefly]

I'd have to say AVLI for bes Greek. I really like the pies and it's the only place you can get real greek comfort food. Pantheon is so hit and miss, some of the stuff awesome some awful. I have never been disappointed at AVLI though!

[bytepusher]

Best Indian - Sher-e-punjab

Best Italian - Seven Numbers

Best Greek - With tablecloths - Pantheon
- On Formica - Messini

[Livingtoeat]

Best Indian - Sher E Punjab

Best Italian - 7 numbers

Best Thai - Diner's Thai

Best Chinese - Danforth Dragon (LOVE the Crispy Ginger Beef)

Best Mexican - Haven't found it yet

Best Pub - Allen's

Best Meal under $100

Best Wings - don't eat wings

Best Pizza - Danforth Pizza House

Best Greek - Pantheon (the grilled calamari is amazing)