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| - It almost seems cliche to open up a review of BQM Diner by mentioning how much you miss the Stem Restaurant which proceeded it. Sorry, I can't help it. I miss the Stem for being one of the few cool old school diners left in this ever changing city. Alas one must learn to accept change, especially when it comes to restaurants in Toronto. So it is I should find myself at 354 Queen St W for a gourmet burger.
Upon entering BQM Diner I discover the layout to be the same as it's predecessor just with a slightly sharper, more modern look. The kitchen area on the left side of the restaurant seems to have eeked out a few inches towards the dining space on the right, making the dining experience for singles and deuces even more cramped than what was previously experienced with the Stem. The table I sat at was incredibly small, literally a few inches away from being comfortable. Which I'm sure is good for business as it inspires people to eat and go, but for what they charge for burgers I don't care to be pushed through like at a fast food joint. They do have a few four-tops in the rear which makes coming to BQM in a group of 3-4 far more appealing.
The meat used at BQM is of the highest quality being local, organic and hormone free. Burgers are optionally cooked medium or medium well. I ordered the Hawaiian burger at $9., cooked medium and a side small fries at $2. Upon receiving the burger and side I was pleased to see a little pink in my burger, the patty was cooked exactly as I wanted it. The fries were decent but really nothing worth mentioning as exceptional. Over all I was pleased with the food and I feel confident in saying that BQM offers up one of the best beef burgers in the city.
As for service I felt it was competent. As for value for the buck I find BQM to be a tad pricey. I'm sure you can find an equally as good a burger for a couple bucks cheaper, though I suppose not at Queen and Spadina with real estate prices being what they are in this city.
In closing I'll recommend BQM if you are in the area, craving a good burger, willing to pay close to $10 for one and willing to sit at and eat at a tiny table. Here's a tip: $10 special for a burger and a Pabst Blue Ribbon beer.
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