I'm of the opinion that no place is worth waiting longer than 15 minutes to get in - there are so many great spots in this city that I have discovered new places just by being told there is a 1 hour wait, that doesn't mean I won't go back to the original destination..I just do it with a plan !
Now that I have said that, 1 place with long lineups and long waits worth planning a trip to is, BarQue on Roncesvalles #299 Roncesvalles to be precise ..they have delicious meats smoked in house and well worth planning a meal there the meat is tasty, smokey delicious and sooo tender, their sides are fantastic and although a bit noisy - a great addition to what is fast becoming a new food mecca street.
Located at the corner of Bloor and Sterling Road - in what was a former failed variety store the 2 owners of this little treasure have sourced out teas that will calm your nerves, warm your heart and simply elevate your T-tastebuds to a whole new level.
They have researched the best of the teas and can tell you all about the balance and the nuances involved in making the best cup of tea.
You can top off your tea with market fresh pies and tarts for dessert, curl up into a wingback chair and watch the world (or at least the Bloor and Symington part of the world) pass you by. !
Business parners Juan and Marco have included an interesting mix of books for what is termed the "book exchange" and some good boardgames, including chess to help you pass your time - rumour has it they will be hosting Chess Championships soon :) - also coming soon is WiFi for those that just cannot get unconnected for any time in their day.
They have big plans to help local artists present thier works on what is currently just blank white walls, the lighting in the space is subtle and the vibe is cool and relaxed.
If you get the chance - check it out as this area of Bloor is fast becoming a spot for those looking for great food, relaxed spaces and a real neighbourhood appeal.
London may have their pubs but Toronto is fast becoming a spot for cool coffee and now Tea spots at the corners of a neighbourhood.
Tel # 416-832-5775 1421 Bloor Street West. Hours are 7 am to 11pm most days
Head East to College and Dovercourt and there is another delight to be discovered...
The Black Skirt Cafe at 974 College Street,
We started with the Meat and Cheese platter for under $25.00 it was perfect for the 3 of us, and the mixtures of flavours got our tastebuds ready for the main deal, pastas all kinds of pasta - we couldn't settle on 1 so we ordered 3 different styles and shared..we would have any 1 of them again (I am not writing down what we had as I think you won't be disappointed in any of the choices).
Desserts were made in house and the Tiramisu was ..I am speechless.. it was that good!
The decor is cool and rustic, with an artist in the house ( Francesco Galle is the owners brother !) he does some brilliant work! So, there is mind food and body food as well as stimulations for the eyes and nose, this has to be a must-go-to spot for anyone that reads this.
Service was excellent !! The Black Skirt is now an add-on to my ever growing list of gastronomic Italian delights in the West End.
416-532-7424
