Mildred's Temple Kitchen

The*Princess*and*the*Pancake

The true tale of triumph in a time of turmoil

Ok so we all know that Mildred Pierces pancakes were PRIMO… the crème de la crème in the city, people traveled far and wide and even stood in line for hours just to have a taste of these tremendous breakfast treats… One sad sad day a few years back, our blessed Mildred gracefully bowed out of the restaurant world and as she shut her doors, instantly the cities pancake stock plummeted and our pallets lost a true treasure.. … oh how we longed for a decent fluffy breakfast delight that wasn’t dense, mealy, over cooked… we scoured Toronto from tip to tip but nothing seemed to compare to MP’s famous flapjacks… and alas after much searching we surrendered to the notion that the precious pancakes of yesteryear were no longer…. A tear was shed and although other brunch delights were able to fill this void, in our heart of hearts we knew we had suffered a great loss…. Flash forward to a time of financial turmoil and uncertainty.. a time where things that we know are no longer and our depressing daily conversations revolve around our crumbling economy…. And then there.. like a burst of light… rising from the ashes.. resilient Mildred makes a triumph return… Pancake in hand… and just like that we are reminded that things can be good again. The spectacularly stunning Liberty Village restaurant is breathtaking. Its open concept space sparkles with personality and poise. The food oh so fabulous speaks for itself…… and the pancakes… perfection…..just like I remembered….. and as I sat here on this particular Sunday morning I scooped up the syrupy soaked last spoonful and I smiled… the strings that once tugged at my heart had been untied and I was overcome with a feeling of hope. Mildred’s Second coming reminded me that we appreciate things much more when they are gone and that if we can just hang on through the pancakeless years and enjoy the things that we do have… eventually life will be sweet once again!

Mildred’s Temple Kitchen
85 Hanna Avenue
Toronto, ON

House on Parliament

a * hop * skip & jump


Never before as excited for Sunday to arrive I leapt out of bed this particular chilly day..super excited for my supper that was still hours away. When the clock struck seven, I scurried over to meet the Sunday night supper society at this little crown jewel in the heart of Cabbagetown. Just a few steps below the street, the House of Parliament sits unsuspectingly, and although many pass by without notice, inside it is always packed with locals reminiscing over a pint or partaking in some delicious dining delights. Sunday nights in addition to their totally tasty regular menu ( boosting such delights as a scrumptious steak and stilton sandwich and melt in your mouth yummy meat and vegetable tortures) the happening’ House… serves up an on so SPECTACULAR Prime Rib dinner… it is simply a MUST!!.... Gathering to catch up, gossip and indulge in good grub, the five of us huddled on the red velvet banquet seats and savored in each other’s company as we waited for our meals to arrive… within no time our table was filled with perfectly cooked prime rib, yorkshire pudding, gravy, mounds of mouthwatering mash potatoes and steamed veggies..... at 14.99 per person it was perfection! Talk about a perfect ending to the weekend…. washed down with a pint of beer and a barrel of laughs, nights at this house are happy ones!

House on Parliament
456 Parliament Street
Toronto, ON

Oddfellows

o d d * m a n * o u t

The fire crackled inside the long lean space as I ushered off the cold street and into the warmth of a restaurant. Running a little late (gasp) my party had already been seated and although I was only meeting up with three others, as I waltzed into the small space I was overcome by a feeling of family and instantly felt at home. A single long concrete table grounded the restaurant as it ran the alongside the length of the small spunky space. With magnetic fridge alphabet lettering up for creative interpretation along the back wall and an oh so spectacularly special light bulb art instillation over the bar, this place, though small, was not for lack of style. We gossiped over a bottle of delicious red, while we waited for our food to arrive (a selection of pretty much everything off the small but scrumptiously put together menu). A small frisée salad with figs and blue cheese was the perfect opener, wetting our appetites and intriguing us to what lay ahead . A sautéed mixed bag of baby bok choy and chinese broccoli accompanied the braised short ribs that shortly followed. They were cooked to perfection. Soft and succulent with a meaty texture and a sticky sweet sauce; they were oh so yummy and we simply had to have another order. After the ribs ( X2) we thought it couldn't get any better…and then out came the lamb stew. Served straight out of the pressure cooker, this pot sat in the middle of the table (well our section of the table) and we served ourselves out of what seemed like a bottomless bowl of deliciousness. Tender and oh so tasty this terrific main was accompanied by smashed fingerling potatoes with double smoked bacon and brilliantly baked veggies. Dessert followed; home baked brownies and ice cream….the perfect sweet treats to end off our mega meal . For four girls with big eyes, big appetites and even bigger expectations, we were humbled by this unmarked, speak easy-esc establishments and we were completely satisfied. The night wore on and the candles wore down and unlike most restaurants where the tables turn over as the evening lingers on, at Oddfellows this is simply not the case. The 20 something oh so urbanely hip mixed bag crowd stayed put. Named after friendly secret societies in the UK established to protect and unite their members, Oddfellows flawlessly captured this feeling and although we each carried out our dinners independently bound by the concrete table and ability to locate this hidden sign-less gem we were one.

Oddfellows
936 Queen Street West

Toronto, ON

Black Camel

a l i c e * t h e * c a m e l

I love black camel sandwiches…it is as simple as that! They are so succulently delicious and sinfully good that even the mention of them makes my mouth water… A Sammy after my own heart, this Summerhill spot serves up a small but oh so special sandwich line up that is one to lust for. Named after a 17^th Century Viennese Café, The Black Camel boasts a slow roasted beef brisket sandwich that is oh so brilliant and simply bursts with flavor. Taking 5 days to prepare, this lengthy process involves primo Cumbrae cuts of meat, top-secret dry rubs, homemade marinades and a slow cooking process that has been perfected over the years. With sweet molasses, crisp arugula and silky caramelized onions a craving for one of these bad boys has had me to trekking across the city simply to satisfy my stomach. Equally as pleasurable the pulled pork, pulled chicken and Steak sammies are also crowd pleasers. With special top-secret preparation rituals of their very own, each freshly baked bun is piled high with incredible ingredients crafted with love. Tucked away on Crescent road this little spot is in a word "splendid" Dieters beware, one of these decadent delights just might be the straw that breaks your calorie counting camel's back.

Black Camel
4 Crescent Road
Toronto, ON

The Harbord Room

p r e t t y * i n * p i n k

Without a reservation we waltzed into the small yet spectacular salmon colored space. Fully booked with no table to spare, we happily seated ourselves along the rustic wooden bar and with bellys rumbling were ready to review the small yet scrumptious menu. With only a few appetizers and mains to choose from we quickly selected several to share and as we waited for our plates to be prepped, peeked around the petite pink room. Tall marble toped tables with leather upholstered chairs lined the latter half of the restaurant while low lying tables and leather banquets lingered along the front. Our food arrived...and my senses were delighted. Starting with the chorizo, calamari and clam appetizer i was in awe. Stewed in a chunky sweet tomato and basil sauce each bite was blissful and tantalized my taste-buds. The burger was beautiful, grand in presentation and oh so gourmet. Dressed up with sharp cheddar, a side of fries and the freshest of fixings this classic was a crowd pleaser. The lamb leg was luscious. Lovely in appearance, cooked to perfection and oh so palatable...not a single piece remained on my plate. Although oh so satisfied with the savory...if you know me a sweet was a must. The infamous baked to order chocolate caked with caramelized bananas and peanut brittle was in a word BRILLIANT. In one swift swoop i edged out the other spoon and without hesitation scooped up the sinfully sweet last bite....i was in bliss...a perfect meal, with people i love in a little pink palace...for a princess like me it was paradise.

The Harbord Room
89 Harbord Street
Toronto, ON

Eat My Words

y o u * a r e * w h a t * y o u * e a t

okay now I know sweetness when I taste it and every single bite of this blissful baked good is so sinfully scrumptious it simply melts in my mouth. With thick, creamy oh so decedent icing and a magnificently moist cupcake base, these tiny treasures have quickly carved out a permanent place in my pallet. Baked with love, each Eat My Words cupcake is adorned with beautiful budding flowers so delicate and meticulously manicured you can’t help but marvel in their beauty. Available by special order (see information below), these petit pastries are preservative free and the profits from each purchase go towards the Stephan Lewis foundation, to help ease the pain of HIV/AIDS in Africa. Chic, charitable and oh so deliciously decadent, these sweet treats are the ultimate soul food.

Eat My Words
Toronto, ON
to order, call 416-489-7700
http://www.eatmywords.org/

Jet Fuel Coffee Shop

f u e l i n g * u p

Feeling faint and in desperate need of some fuel in a neighborhood that I am only mildly familiar with I had surrendered to the notion that a cheap, stale convenience store coffee may be in my future (yes sometimes a girl does gets desperate). I crossed the street and headed towards the corner store at Parliament and Winchester and all of a sudden I noticed a stylish stature walking towards me. His silhouette was simple, no briefcase or bag but rather a bike helmet in one hand and the oh so sweet sight of a coffee cup in the other...it was although the java goddesses had heard my silent prayer. Before even opening my mouth he reached his long lean spandex arm and pointed across the street to the ultimate rejuvenation reservoir: Jet Fuel. As I walked in I quickly realized that I was totally out of my element....although I was too in work attire as were most of the patrons... my black dress and patent heals were a far cry from the clip ins and neon sponsored spandex crowd that popular this parlor. Parched, I lined up and within seconds the blunt barista behind the counter was sizing me up and down…with no menu or prices posted I did what anyone in my position would do… looked at the beautifully layered brewed bevie in front of me and simply said “ I will have one of those”. Serving up the most delicious coffee, so fresh and brilliantly bold with full fat farm fresh milk…my taste buds were flattered. I let out a sweet little sigh….ahhh I was in latté heaven. Oh so scrumptious and stimulating this spot more than satisfied. What perhaps Ki is to men in suits, Jet fuel is to couriers….an unofficial headquarters if you will... a home away from home, where after a long day of pounding the pavement they can play in private….but not for long....sorry cyclers…the secret is out...

Jet Fuel Coffee Shop

519 Parliament Street

Toronto, ON

7 Numbers

f e e l i n g * l u c k y

The number 7 has proved lucky once again for Mama Rosa and her cluster of culinary creators as they return to the street where it all began. Opening a second location of their wildly successful restaurant, 7Numbers reminds us that good grub doesn't need to be complicated and that dining can be a down home, damn good experience without being overly ostentatious. Using fresh simple ingredients in timeless recipes, combined with her own little sprinkle of je ne sais quoi, Mama Rosa's southern Italian cookin’ keeps customers “coming home” time and time again. When the news of her homecoming wafted to my ears without hesitation I was at her door. With a friend in tow we waltzed into to the sweet smelling space and were seated at a cozy table illuminated with candelabras and cushioned with a comfy miss match of plush pillows. Menus scribbled on the blackboard like art, with enough choices to make you think but not so many as to overwhelm, our eyes smiled with satisfaction as we scanned over the slate (it is important to note that 7’s portion sizes are small allowing the diner to sample several sinfully savory plates per visit). With wine in hand, we toasted to a terrific Tuesday while we waited anxiously like kids and candy store for our supper to arrive. Sharing the fig and prosciutto salad, antipasto misto, veal lasagna, tortiglioni with fresh ricotta and osso buco we could hardly wait. Food arriving dish after delectable dish we indulged and savored each and every blissful bite. Saving just enough room for full fat cappuccinos and flowerless chocolate cake, we simply couldn’t resist extending our stay to dessert. As the night danced on like a dream, the lights were dimmed, the candles around us flickered like fireflies and across the restaurant, through the glimmering glow I could see Mama Rosa smiling and stealing a quiet moment as she soaked up her oh so sweetly successful second number 7.

7 Numbers
516 Eglinton Avenue West
Toronto, ON

tealish

oh so "tea"lishous

Tucked away on Walnut, sits a tiny tea heaven oh so sweet and sinfully scrumptious that you can't help but smile when you are sipping one of their specialties. First opening its doors in 2006, Telish, has quickly emerged as one of Toronto's premier tea shops and the little lime green landmark is redefining the way we look at this time honored beverage. Finding myself on Queen West and desperate for my afternoon caffeine fix I knew exactly where to turn. A hop skip and a jump and I walked into the wonderful world of tea, instantly I felt rejuvenated.The beautiful tin boxes sparkled as the soft lighting reflected from them and as i took a deep breath, the shop's sweet aromas soothed my senses. After a little look at all the tiny trinkets (especially loving the flowering tea buds in the glass tea pots….they are stunning and make the most precious present), I turned to the counter and took a stab at ordering. With so many specialties to choose from and over 200 loose leaf teas to try this tea snob was dare I say stumped. Selecting a tea latte off the standard menu, I could hardly wait to take my first sip.With eyes wide I watched patiently as the afternoon treat was prepared and poured into a telish pre-insulated cup (yes that is right, no annoying sleeves needed) . Sweet, smooth and oh so silky I savored each sip…. Recharged, rejuvenated and re energized…I slide on my RayBan's, reapplied my lip gloss and reentered reality…tea in hand of course.


Tealish
198 Walnut Ave
Toronto, ON

Toast Restaurant

Cozied up in the quaint, quiet comfy nook on this particular Sunday morning all our troubles melted away and into that space wafted the sweet smelling aromas of Toast (formally Hello Toast), a tasty Leslieville diner frequented by a "chic-ishly" laid back Queen St. East crowd. A cool summer's breeze blew through the big picture window and we smiled knowing that we had snagged the best table in the restaurant. Hungry after the mini trek, we were delighted with the super speedy service and after some careful consideration, tea, lattés, eggs benny and fruit filled French toast (of course how can you go to a restaurant called toast and not try it) were ordered. As we caught up on lost time, we marveled in the eclectic and yet comforting décor at this noted neighborhood nosh. Exposed brick, mismatched chairs and tables, old toasters, and teapots treated our eyes and charmed our souls. Cute and kitschy the oh so sweet little restaurant was the perfect place for this hungry pair. Within no time huge portions filled our tiny table...fabulously fluffy stuffed French toast oozing with goodness, eggs benny cooked just so and an array of scrumptious sides more then satisfied our grumbling tummies. The type of place where time stands still and hours can pass you by all cozied up in the corner, a calmness fell over the table, and as we realized we had no place to be we got comfy, raised our coffee cups and toasted to an oh so sweetly slow Sunday afternoon.


Toast Restaurant
993 Queen Street East
Toronto, ON

rebel with a cause

The Rebel House

•dinner•
Even thou I am more than dedicated to travel far and wide in quest of all that is delicious, there is something so special about a precious little neighborhood nook. The type of place that you can roll out of bed and stumble to in less then ten minutes, a place with a variety of delicious beers on tap (including a luscious raspberry beer that I just LOVE) and bold freshly brewed coffee in the morning to help ease the hangover from night before. Helping me to find my inner rebellion, the Rebel House in Summerhill has been a staple in my life for as long as I can remember. The small cozy two floor establishment is always packed with a posh 20 something crowd who enjoy a good old fashioned pub but seek a menu above and beyond traditional greasy bar fare. With an extensive (but not overwhelming) menu, Rebel serves up a variety of delicious dishes, sure to satisfy each diner's different needs. Tending to favor towards the crisp apple and spinach salad with aged cheddar, a creamy maple dressing and a blackened chicken breast on top, I have recently branched out and have to say, become quite a fan of their lamb stew. This hearty delicious dish is the perfect comfort food, and on a cold winter's day treats my taste buds and warms my soul.

•brunch•
The Rebel brunch cannot go without mention. Once again this morning I found myself slipping into my sweats, sliding on my shades and sauntering down to the Rebel House to meet the girls for Sunday morning gossip and grub. Heaping helpings of hot golden crisp home fries, delicious eggs done up rebellion-style, ooey gooey grilled cheese and organic granola with vanilla infused yogurt were just a few of the dishes that topped our table and for a brief moment the talking subsided and the tasting took president. As I looked around, I couldn't help but be reminded of all the good times, great laughs and delicious never ending evenings that I have spent in this very seat…..Oh if the Rebel House walls could talk they would have years of dish on this dame and be it brunch, an after work drink with coworkers, a first date or dinner with people I have know all my life, this little home away from home has, like a good friend, been there for me time and time again..

The Rebel House
1068 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON

getting my greens

Urban Herbivore

with my woven grocery basket in tow i strolled down Augusta towards my little kensington market lunch spot. With each step closer my tummy grumbled a little louder, my eyes widened a bit more with excitement, and the pace of my sandeled step increased ever so slightly. Meat eaters beware the Urban Herbivore is of the vegan variety but i beg of you...please do not judge this lovely leafy lunch spot without giving it a chance to grace you with its oh so delicious greenery. I have to say that it was the scrumptious sandwiches and freshly squeezed lemonade that won me over from the get go and continues to keep me craving this oh so good for you lunch time and time again. Upon recommendation i ordered the sesame tempah sandwich and was not disappointed. Layer upon layer of goodness was piled between two slices of a seedy, hearty home baked pita bread and with each bite i could feel myself getting healther. I sipped the lemonade slowly, sweet and tart all at the same time, it was the perfect compliment and i had to resist the urge to gulp it all down in one go. ... Dreadlocks and sandals not required but not discouraged either, the Herbivore is super special, oh so sweet soup, salad and sandwich spot servicing a local, hippy dippy crowd with the occasional "suit" and fashionista thrown into the mix.

Urban Herbivore
64 Oxford St
Toronto, ON

getting selective...

Le Select Bistro

The restaurant was bubbling with intelligent conversation and the sounds of glasses clinking as people celebrated around me. Arriving earlier then the rest of my party I was secretly delighted to be sitting alone at the table immersed in this electric energy and was excited for the arrival of my guests and the delicious meal that lay ahead. The beautiful tin ceilings sparked and the burgundy banquet seating welcomed each warm body as it glistened in the chandelier lit space. Slowly the rest of my party arrived and as the table grew with each additional member so did the vibrancy around me. We immediately ordered the Assiette de fromage (cheese plate) to nibble on while took some time to decide on our dishes. Exquisite little slices of heaven were brought to our table, each cheese very different but equally delightful. Served with sweet crisp flat bread and fruit, it was the perfect little pre dinner treat for our taste buds. With so many delicious dishes to choose from on the traditionally French Bistro menu I was oh so indecisive but upon the recommendation of my server, ordered the bouillabaisse and having recently been inspired by iron chef's battle beet, the salade de betteraves au chevre chaud (Québec goat cheese on frisée lettuce with walnut and a mixed beets). Other orders at the table included the lamb, several variations of steak frites and soup a L’Oignon Gratinee. Our dinners arrived and with French fries crisp and broths bubbling a calming silence fell over us. Dishes as brilliant to the taste as beautiful to the eye decorated our table and I smiled as I savored my soup spoon by spoon. In diners bliss I looked up and took a moment to relish in the French ambiance that was felt in all nooks and crannies of the spectacular space. With black and white tiles, back lit bars, exposed wine cellars, and the sweet soothing sounds of French songs playing over the sound system I couldn’t help but be captivated by the charm of this little Parisian paradise….

Le Select Bistro
432 Wellington Street West
Toronto, ON

a little piece of Portugal

Chiado

hidden in the west depths of College Street, a little bit of old world elegance sits seemingly untouched by the hustle and bustle of downtown. A perfect combination of all that is oh so delightful, Chiado mystifies diners and serves up a succulent menu sure to satisfy even the most sophisticated pallet. After taking advantage of the valet parking, we hustled in off the cold snowy street and were immediately welcomed into a breathtaking space filled with the warmth of smiles and sweet aromas of a far off land. Seated and starving we ordered immediately, several tapas to share and mains from the beautifully presented fish platter (daily selections flown in fresh from Portugal). Dish upon delightful dish arrived each one candy for the eyes, we simply couldn't wait to take a taste. Sweet scabbard, tuna, sea bass and salmon were amongst the table's selections, each one flavorful and more delicious then the next. With roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, risottos and French fries matching the various dishes, tonight our taste buds were truly treated like royality. Named for the oldest town in Lisbon, Chiado was on this Sunday night bubbling with laughter, serving up delicious wines and bringing family and friends together over an oh so scrumptious menu. Tummy full, and oh so satisfied I sat back in my chair and took a moment to myself…I peeked out the window and caught a glimpse of the cold breeze blowing the snow up from the icy street. I knew in that instant that winter was just a pane of glass away but as i turned back towards the table and rejoined the conversation all i could feel was the warm Portuguese sun on my back.


Chiado
864 College Street
Toronto, ON

its cookie time!

Circles & Squares Bakery

I think when 2pm rolls around the little kid inside of us all still craves “snack”…..and what better way to satisfy this tummy grumbling then with a warm delicious freshly baked cookie… My new obsession and daily phone call is to Circle & Squares Bakery. This little kitchen on the other side of my building bakes the most melt in my mouth cookies that are so sinfully good words can even begin to do them justice. My favorite, their signature Canadian Rocky …is good and hearty, bursting with flavor and sweet but not overloaded with sugar. Finished off with creamy callebaut chocolate chunks this is king of the castle, world champion of all champions, blue ribbon cookie in my books and I can't seem to make it through the day without one of these jam packed with goodness treats. Currently only operating on a catering and take-out basis, they are hoping to have their full scale retail bakery up and running oh so very soon. PLEASE I beg of you don’t let this stop you from experiencing cookie bliss, orders can be placed online or by phone…and although I am sure it is not encouraged by bursting through their doors and asking what time the cookies will be ready....my preferred option... after all, it is all part of the adventure!

ps...circles & squares is a no preservative, all natural bakery....love it

Circles & Squares Bakery
171 East Liberty Street
Toronto, ON

little house in the big city

Olivia’s at Fifty Three

a birthday dinner sent us on a discovery for something delicious. With a desire to dine off the beaten path we headed down to little Italy’s Olivia’s Place, a cutesy little hideaway off college that I had been meaning to munch at for quite sometime now. We hustled in off the cold street and into the warmth of the tiny house and immediately our senses were engaged. With the fireplace illuminated, lights dim and live piano playing we were seated and as I cozied up in my chair, instantly all my worries melted away. Feeling famished we ordered several starters, antipasto dishes and pasta mains to really put us over the edge…after all what are birthdays for if not to break diet rules and splurge on sweets. The food came and it was all so very yummy. I especially liked the creamy, cheesy gnocchi. Each bite melted in my mouth and although we were sharing, this dish stayed closer to my half of the table. I smiled as I looked around, this little house on Clinton reminded me of all the cute, quaint and oh so kitschy things I love; and with beautiful music playing in the background, delicious food in front of me, and incredible company to celebrate with I was in birthday bliss......

Olivia's at Fifty Three
53 Clinton St.
Toronto On

say it ain’t so

The Cake Master

after decades of serving up delicious delectables, it is with great sadness that I announce that this past weekend the Cake Master has closed its doors for good. A tiny neighborhood gem amidst the glitz and glam of “yorkvilleland”, this little lunch landmark will be greatly missed by all who loved it and all its deliciously charming ways……

the house that chan built

The House of Chan

I sat across the table from my father at dinner last night and calculated that I had eaten more then 100 meals at this time honored establishment....not having been in weeks I was ecstatic when The House of Chan was suggested for dinner and was looking forward to the stone crabs and key lime pie that have been recently added to their menu. Flown in from the infamously famous Joe's Stone Crab restaurant in Florida, these tasty treats have caused quite the stir around town. I have had them on numerous occasions and am pleased to report that not only do they travel well but, they are just as delicious as when "Joe" serves them himself. Like it was when I was just a little girl, my father ordered our usual smorgasbord: ribs, steak, vegetables, fried rice, wonton soup, cantonese noodle stir-fry, lobster and now the newly added stone crabs. As the food arrived we helped ourselves to little bits of this and little bites of that….more food then two could ever consume in one sitting, the great thing about Chan is that leftovers are king and some may even say better the next day. As we finished up our meal, and cracked open our fortune cookies, I looked around…..tables buzzing with families of all sizes, laughter and smiles as people visit with those they came with and those they have unexpectedly run into. One part Chinese restaurant and one part Steak house, Chan reminds us all of how good food really does bring great people together. I smiled as I unrolled the tiny strip of paper that had since fallen onto the table “Decide what you want and go for it” it reads….and so I picked of my fork and scooped the last bite of key lime pie….simply splendid....after all the cookie told me to

The House of Chan
876 Eglinton Ave W,
Toronto, ON

always worth waiting for…

Xacutti ( sha-koo-tee)

walk into Xacutti on any given Sunday and be prepared to wait your turn. Populated with brand name denim, designer aviators, and blinding bling, this College Street’s Indian inspired brunch is worth getting dressed up for. Always packed and buzzing, I have on occasion waited up to half an hour for the trendy brunch but let me tell you it is worth every second in line. I woke up this morning and had french toast on the brain….and I am not talking about your traditional French toast but the oh so sinfully and deliciously cheesy version that only Xacutti has made famous. I jumped into my jbrands , grabbed my glasses and headed down to this little lavish breakfast palace. With a surprisingly short wait we were seated and served the banana breakfast smoothie, which cleansed my palate and got my tummy grumbling for more. The cheesy french toast arrived and I was immediately satisfied. Even before taking the first bite I knew that squeezing into my jeans was worth it. Sweet and savory, this dish is the perfect combination of all that is scrumptious and I can’t help but smile as I pour the thick maple syrup all over my plate. Crisp tandoori spiced home fries are the perfectly paired side dish and I am equally as excited for this tasty tater treat. Admittedly I have been for breakfast here more times then I can count and have never ordered anything different. Always a pleasure as I walk out after another delicious breakie, I smile and think to myslef Xacutti is proof that carbs are still king, sometimes jeans win out over sweats and that good meals are always worth waiting for!

Xacutti
503 College Steet
Toronto, ON

this ain't no ugly duckling

The Swan

Craving the “ultimate” club sandwich we got in my car, put on our big black Jackie O shades and drove non-stop to the home of my favorite version of this classic sammy in the city. Probably one of my very first foodie adventures, I remember a time when queen west west was starbucks free, the vampire club still lived on the corner and my mother would remind me to make sure my car doors were locked when I headed down to this “taboo” ‘hood. Now packed with trendy stores, home to hip loft dwellers and littered with happening art galleries……this area has become quite the see and be seen hot spot for locals and tourist alike…..i am pleased to report though, that this area’s “hipifacation” and popularity has not spoiled the ego of The Swan restaurant. It remains as humble and delicious of a diner as it was the first time I went oh so many years ago…..this far from ugly duckling continues to woo me time and time again. Always busy, the swan was alive with laughter and filled with the sounds cheerful chatter when we walked through the doors. Lucky for us an old fashioned diner booth was sitting empty calling out our names so we plopped down and ordered immediately. I was counting down the minutes to the arrival of my club sandwich and let me tell you….was not disappointed when I took that first oh so tasty bite. Fresh and jam packed with goodness it was a treat for the taste buds and so scrumptious right down to the very last crumb. Worth every minute of the trek, this beautiful bird's inviting atmosphere and mouthwatering menu (stocked full of classics prepared "a la swan") keeps me comming back time and time again!

The Swan
892 Queen Street West
Toronto, ON

sushi in the city

Sado Sushi

like the old saying goes…. you cant judge a book by its cover and these wise words of wisdom echo through my head as I park my car in front of the big bold backlit sign. Making its home on Eglinton just east of the Allen express way, Sado Sushi although off the beaten path has been generating quite the buzz and for good reason.. ..With a successful sister restaurant in Montreal, the Nguyen family has been so kind as to bless Toronto sushi lovers with this Japanese delight. Boasting a menu filled with unique sushi rolls, oh so scrumptious chef specialties and stocked full of traditional dishes we were overwhelmed with choices …..thankfully our knowledgeable server was there to show us the Sado way or we may have been lost forever. Our dinner arrived, beautiful dish upon dish, a treat for our eyes and our taste buds…we were delighted. The unique combination of ingredients was refreshing and our sight, smell and stomachs were oh so satisfied…special mention goes out to the tataki, volcano and geisha dishes.. they were daring, different and most delicious. It was such a pleasure to have innovative and interesting Japanese food at affordable prices. Sado sushi..where have you been all my life…..the answer…hiding on Eglinton west behind a big red that is just begging to be judged.....for those willing to look beyond the cover...you are in for a tasty treat!

Sado Sushi
1116 Eglinton Ave. W.
Toronto, ON

a hungarian hideaway

The Coffee Mill

after expressing our mutual love for this little Hungarian hideaway, three girls couldn’t resist the opportunity to rally there for a late lunch date. This old world Toronto establishment nestled amongst several trendy oh so seen and be seen hot spots, is a humble hangout for the true Torontonian through and through. Tables filled with downtown dwellers…young and old alike, this classic European coffee house serves up delicious delights for the both the sweetest and most savory tooth. Normally ordering the signature goulash (meal size of course), today in a last minute game time decision after much discussion over the veal paprikash I decided to take a leap of faith….. I was not disappointed. The tender dish was oh so succulent and has one of those sauces that you couldn’t help but soak up with your well buttered bread. Over good conversation and hearty dishes we laughed, dined and relished in the company of this time honored resturant. A Coffee Mill meal would not be complete without a slice of their infamously sinful carrot cake. So moist and yummy with the perfect amount of icing, this sweet treat is so coveted that it is not uncommon to come across a diner who refuses to share even one single bite…… I love this little treasure, it is cute, quaint and a little spot that i always come home to....Dieter beware, the Coffee Mill’s menu is heavy, rich and not fit for the calorie counter at heart but let me tell you it is worth every weight watchers point…..guaranteed!


The Coffee Mill
99 Yorkville Avenue,
Toronto, ON

a foodie fairy tale....

Oro Café

a wise man once brought sandwiches and salads to a very hungry group of fashionistas….and so the fairy tale begins…they were warm and grilled and from the very first bite we were hooked. Like sleeping beauty awaking from her slumber, the combination of Italian meats, marinated vegetables and rich cheeses stimulated our taste buds and awoke us from our famished state…..with an assortment of side salads, one more delicious then the next and freshly brewed rich Italian coffees….he had us eating out of the palm of his hand. The Oro Café instantly become for us the unofficial go to food of fashion week…we just couldn’t bare to imagine a single day without such scrumptious delights. Named after a northern Italian coffee company, Oro emulates all that one would hope for in a European café. This new liberty village hotspot’s clean and modern décor and friendly staff make dining in or taking out a pleasure. Always greeted with a smile, when I walk into the Oro Café, I feel amongst friends. I simply couldn’t write about this little liberty gem without giving a special mention to the “oh so delicious” pea and mushroom salad…we LOVE LOVE LOVE this dish and if you happen to be at the café when it is in rotation you are in for a special treat……and so us girls feasted on our luscious lunch nibbling up each and every last morsel…and for just a single moment the awesomely authentic food enabled us to escape to a far off land and when we returned we were rejuvenated, refreshed and refueled, ready to face the fabulous and furious world of fashion…the end.

Oro Café
171 East Liberty Street
Toronto, ON

a breakfast beacon...

Avenue Open Kitchen

after a morning of shopping, us girls were famished! Finding ourselves at spadina and camden we were yearning for breakie…eggs, toast, home fries the whole shebang. Through the traffic and concrete skyscrapers we saw a little yellow sign: “restaurant” it said and like an oasis in the dessert we were drawn to this beaming beacon. Windows steamed and unsure of what lay on the other side of the door, we hustled inside and found ourselves welcomed by friendly faces and the oh so sweet smell of traditional bacon and eggs. Exposed brick, and walls littered with old diner photos enchanted me and created and atmosphere that was simply timeless. As I sipped my little cup of tea and gabbed with my girlfriends, I was at peace. Our meals arrived and to my delight portions large enough to satisfy a football player. I ate and ate away and embarrassingly barely made a dent in my dish….clearly today my eyes were wider than my three sunny side up eggs, brown toast and a heaping helping of home fries…deliciously done diner styles of course….perhaps next time, and yes there will be a next time I will keep this in mind when I order….but who are we kidding, probably not! Full from a fabulous breakfast, satisfied with the unbeatable company and charmed by the grace and adorableness of the diner I felt happy… Untouched by modern commercialism this downtown treasure has found a special place in my heart; it is cozy and cute and emulates all that one could ever hope for in a traditional greasy spoon.....right down to the classic diner hats.... simply magnifique!

Avenue Open Kitchen
7 Camden Street,
Toronto, ON

when the clock strikes lunch.....

The Liberty Village Market and Café

tucked away in the “oh so almost trendy” liberty village, the place the queen west artists, bohos and musicians now call home (well that is until it becomes cool to the masses and the trek to dufferin and king becomes like going to the corner store for milk) lives a little café whose food I have come to crave when the clock strikes 12. With tuna that is as addictive as well……you know how the saying goes and chai tea that is so good, nothing less then an extra large will do, this lunch gets a solid gold star in my books. Although there are tables to sit, the liberty café is more of take out hotspot for diners on the go, then a place one would want to escape to for a long lingering lunch. Always bustling and busy, liberty knows how to pack 'em in…do not be deterred by the line ups though … these guys are pros and the queue moves like you wouldn’t believe. Made to order sandwiches, wraps and salads along with a variety of organic soups (love the tomato) and fridges full of ready made delights, the liberty café is sure to satisfy every craving….. also servicing the afternoon sweet tooth, the liberty café provides the 4:00 snacker with that oh so needed caffeine and sugar fix. Serving up a variety of gourmet coffees and dufflet pastries…you will be sure to find that kick you need to make it through the rest of the workday.....if you find yourself in the 'hood or are looking for an adventure, this lunch hot spot is not to be missed

tuna side note.....
LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!! but if you have a big meeting in the afternoon I may opt for an alternative protein, the tuna is a wee bit oniony and common now… no one likes the smelly kid…..


The Liberty Village Market and Café
65 Jefferson Avenue
Toronto ON

any time of day

Café La Gaffe

under the twinkle lights out back, on a warm summers night, la gaffe sparkles. The small baldwin gem is always filled with sounds of laughter and aromas of a far off land. Serving a traditional french mediterranean menu, this bistro brings old friends together, and evokes new friends to make memories over a bottle of wine and a delicious meal. Always memorable, I have returned to la gaffe time and time again. The wooden church pew seating combined with woven tablecloths and walls littered with eclectic artwork create a warm atmosphere that calms the mind and sooths my soul. This morning, after a big night out, the gang gathered at la gaffe for brunch…a meal there I had not yet explored. The brie omelette “spoke” to me right off the menu. The combination of apples, and walnuts with the warm rich cheese was a nice change from the traditional chedder and veggie omelette that is a staple on so many breakfast menus. The banana french toast, though was by far my favorite dish on the table. It was moist and melt in my mouth yummy. With just the right amount of banana it was flavorful without being overwhelming.....next time i think i will have one all to myself! Breakfast delights were complemented with heaping helpings of hash browns cooked crispy…just like I like them and coffee so delicious and fresh you would think they were growing the beans out back. Good at any time of the day la gaffe is a staple in my restaurant rotation… I have even been known to make a special late night trip to the baldwin village, simply because I can’t sleep without a mouthful of their traditional tiramisu…now that is what I call dedication to all that is delicious!

Café La Gaff
24 Baldwin
Toronto, ON

"just a cowgirl cookin' with love."

Mimi’s

there was this mimi’s buzz in the air on Saturday and so I finally decided that I simply could not go one more day without trying out this tiny diner that is loved by so many. With my girls in tow we headed to queen and bathurst…tummies a grumbling…. Nestled next to the infamous oakwood "steam bath” we ushered in out of the cold and immediately were overcome with the warm, busy restaurants who’s décor can be best described as “where MacDonald’s toys and all things tacky go to die”. Literally a restaurant that seats 12,we waited our turn for a table and finally cozied up in a booth. Hot, and thirsty we ordered drinks immediately and then looked over the “everything sounds so delicious” menu. Settling on three different dishes: poached eggs, french toast and grilled cheese, we were overwhelmed with the heaping portions that arrived on our table minutes after our orders were placed. Definitely all choices delicious, we agreed however that grilled cheese was the yummiest thing on the table. With sharp cheese and the diners choice of bread…it was warm, gooey and oh so scrumptious. A down home diner feeling with mismatched dishes, tchochkes as far as the eye can see and tons of tasty delights, this cult favorite is a great breakfast adventure for you and no more then three of your dearest friends…who you don’t mind snuggling up with!

washroom disclaimer…
Diner beware…… the bathroom (although I didn’t personally visit it) is located downstairs where one wrong turn could wind you up smack dab in the middle of the steam bath….gross......i elected to “hold it” .

Mimi's
218 Bathurst Street
Toronto, ON

mediterranean magic

Kensington Kitchen

on a whim with a girlfriend, we happened one evening into the Kensington Kitchen….with empty bellies and our eyes wide we ventured in, and within minutes felt as thou we had entered into a magical Mediterranean world…. The décor although understated with painted wood floors , walls draped in oriental rugs and decorative found beaded objects placed just out of reach create an ambience like no other. Intense flavors filled our mouths, as we tasted little bits of this and that off their menu. Each bite was different and more delicious then the next. The Kensington Kitchen did not disappoint and left us full but still yearning for more….. I LOVE the cous cous with lamb…it is oh so delish and although the portions are heaping at the kitchen, rest assured, I can clean my plate with ease. Their famed kk fries are a must for a first timer and one simply cannot leave without tasting at least one! I have since returned on several occasions and I continue to be delighted and mystified by this charming neighborhood eatery each time I walk through its magical doors……

Kensington Kitchen
124 Harbord St
Toronto, ON

just like family....

Aunties and Uncles

one step through the white picket fence and you are magically transformed back to the 1950s. The kitchey decor and miss matched furniture combined with the sweet smell of all that is brunch helps to give this little neighborhood gem a place in my heart. Although not serving poached eggs (my personal breakfast of champions), its menu is filled with delicious, unique breakfast delights that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eater. My personal favorite….the grilled cheese with tomato is just divine….made with two heaping pieces of fresh challah bread and topped off with their own homemade ketchup….yummmmm is all I can say to that. Equally as scrumptious is the “alternative” grilled cheese with warm brie, pears and walnuts…my mouth is watering already. My only beef with this cutesy place is that the second level is rather stuffy I prefer to sit on the main level or ideally outside at one of the picnic tables with the oh so classic red and white checked table cloths …cappuccino in hand!

Aunties and Uncles
74 Lippincott St,
Toronto, ON

let them eat cake...

The Cake Master

just a few steps down and a stones throw from some of the most pretentious shopping in toronto, sits a small quaint bakery who recipes for baked goods, soups and spreads are so delicious that diners return week after week to indulge in these mouthwatering delicacies. The lentil soup on Saturdays is oh so delightful but be warned, not arriving early enough can leave one disappointed as the soup tends to disappear fast. The made to order sandwiches are more then meets the eye….literally. the deli counter may look shabby but the tuna and chicken salads, the chicken breast and the shaved meats are all delicious. The rye bread is always fresh and the cheese spread is oh so yummy. No matter how full I am, I simply cannot leave without at least one bite of a freshly baked danish…poppy seed, or cherry please! The Cake Master is one of my oldest friends my mom ate there when she was pregnant with me and I have been hooked ever since….

The Cake Master
128 ½ Cumberland Street
Toronto, ON

oh where to start....an ode to food

i have to say..... i have never really ever thought that i...me the "anti" journal writer, the one not ever wanting to put things down on paper (for fear that this simple act would solidify them...make them real, make them unretractable....if that is even a word) would ever delve into the oh so foreign world of blogging, but here it goes....hold on tight....take a deep breath and get ready.... this should to be an adventure....i hope you brought your appetite