In an area like Parkdale, the Gabardine might have been just another artsy-updated-retro diner, but here in the downtown core, it's a down right hipster-inspired yet hipsterless (I'm obviously not counting the plaid-clad servers and chefs) haven. It is such a juxtaposition seeing the cinq-a-sept set chill out in this non-businessy hang out in their shirts and ties and designer handbags. Had there been a spot like this in the area back when I was still rocking the pinstripes and stilettos I might have been inclined to stay in the core for a few extra hours rather than brave the rush hour subway traffic with hunger pangs after a long day trapped in the cubicle.
The welcoming curved bar right up at the front can be a tempting place to park yourself, but the tables are more comfortable and the food is simply tasty. We chose to start with the devilled eggs and were pleased with the rich nostalgic flavour of them. My medium rare steak was just that and incredibly juicy. After all that and a bottle of wine, it was a small miracle that each of us still had room for dessert. Boy, were we glad that we did though! My sticky toffee pudding arrived looking like a giant meatball and was fantastic. A bite of the burnt marshmallow ice cream sandwich was also heavenly.
The service was incredibly pleasant from start to end. This is the type of no fuss place I'd be comfortable becoming a regular at if only my pocketbook would allow for such allowances.