Hidden gem? Maybe, maybe not...
Tasty and good value? Definitely!
This completely unassuming super authentic Portuguese place is located in currently trendifying and hipsterfying part of Dundas West between Bathurst and Ossington. Decor is minimal with a TV. Expect to see lots of Portuguese families in this casual, casual joint.
The FOOD was all decent with some hits and misses. The grouper was quite tasty, although we weren't sure that it was actually grouper. The half chicken was probably the best dish of the night and came with a delightfully spicy dipping sauce. The steak, which I ordered medium rare, was served on the well done side of well done; however, the flavor was actually good. I don't get why places ask about steak temperatures if it's not going to make a difference anyway. Fries were pretty limp.
SERVICE was friendly and very casual. Definitely not a place to come if you're in a rush. The food took a long time to come out, but the free bread and olives helped with the wait.
OVERALL. the VALUE is good. Most of the entrees are in the $8-$13 range. Drinks are fairly reasonable as well. It doesn't quite rate as a hidden gem, but I'll call it a hidden cubic zirconium.