As a world class ex MMA fighter, full time security expert and a bicycle specialist on the side, I have seen my share of 5 star restaurants/taverns/taphouses/bistros/grills/pubs/eateries. I was mentoring some youths at the bike maintenance shop up the street on Bloor and after a 2 hour lesson in maintenance and componentry I volunteered to show the youths over 19 this classic tavern/restaurant and now also a Diner,
Our experience was full of ups and downs.
Food- We ordered a various selection of food items and all were of average quality. One of the youths I am mentoring, Danny, was inquiring about the diner and told it wasn't open. He wanted a hot dog in a realistic diner setting with a milk shake so we could take a photo for his mom on instagram he said. Danny was upset and told us he no longer had an appetite. I had the wings and I must say they were good quality for a pub wing. I would say that the food is 3 stars out of a possible 5.
Ambiance- We were sitting in a booth and the bar has nice decor. I was approached by a man who asked me if I was an MMA fighter and I told him I was. Soon a small group had surrounded our booth while I regaled them with stories of my tumultuous career. I was then told a wrestler was in the bar. Teddy "the Outlaw" Marshall sat in and introduced himself. As members of the industry we kept our conduct at a professional level. Two of the youths I mentor were thrilled to meet this legend and we took a few photos for Danny's instagram. I would give the ambiance 4 stars out of a possible 5.
Bathrooms- I was concerned about the conditions in the billiard area which led to the bathrooms. A group of local ruffians were cavorting in the premises and one of the youths, Martin, informed us he had been verbally abused with profane language in the bathroom area and the taunting continued in the billiard area about his genitalia. Due to the uncomfortable setup of the bathroom area and the troublesome youths lurking about, I would give the Bathroom area 1 star out of a possible 5.
Overall I won't be returning with my mentorship group because I felt that many negative distractions were inside Duffy's. A not so subtle and uppity lady had her thong underwear strap rising about her pants to my dismay and was making obscene gestures to her companion. I may come back with a few of my MMA associates to host a meet and greet but at this stage, I am not sure.