Having written plenty of negative reviews on this site, I’m proud to announce that this will be different. It’s taken me a while to formulate my thoughts and stew over any element that might not necessary be up to all our readers’ par (well particularly all foodie pars, which are waaaaay higher). So here we go… The neighborhood (Dundas and Brock st) might not be stellar and the restaurant might not have much curb appeal but it’s definitely worth a visit.
The dimmed lights, jazz music and comfortable buzz of a full dining room shoo any hesitations away. With only about 30 seats, it’s a comfortable enough atmosphere to let your hair down, and secretly I think that’s what this place is all about. Being open from dinner until 2am, you’re never rushed out of your seat and with their affordable wine and beer prices, well frankly I don’t you’d leave. Wines are priced around 30-45$ per bottle and beer around 6$ (but they’ve got nothing on tap, so get ready for bottles). I personally recommend getting the Dragon Stout for beer, it is a bold 7.5% magic brew from Jamaica, sweet and sultry!
So let’s talk menu… Since it changes on a regular basis, I’ll talk structure and what I know are regular features. There’s three main sections all based on pricing (5, 9, 13) and you’re pretty much free to choose taster plates from all the headings. The cheapest are generally soups and salads, while the pricier ones combined could double up as a main course. You just have to be aware that regardless of how you order, the dishes come out of the kitchen according to what the two lonely chefs in there are cooking at that time. It actually seems that they wait their orders out and send the same plate out to everyone who’s ordered it in the restaurant. Anyways, the tomato soup is a regular from what I’ve seen and it is worth trying. Chunky and perfectly seasoned, this soup will cure any blues. The frogs legs, which may be an acquired taste, are grilled to perfection and definitely worth the try. Crickets and chillies are also a regular feature but don’t reflect the general menu which is seasonal and simple. Don’t expect expensive cuts of meat, but there’s definitely some poultry, pasta and fish dishes that will satisfy your hunger.
Overall, I’d definitely rate this restaurant among the top 5 I’ve eaten at in Toronto and would recommend it to anyone willing to try something different. Go there with an open mind, order a bottle of wine and enjoy an comfortable evening of great food.