I can't believe I've never reviewed my most favourite restaurant in the world!
This place is warm and cozy in every way. I almost don't want people knowing about this local favourite because it's such a gem and you'd be hard-pressed not to see lengthy line-ups at peak meal hours.
The food is some of the most special pub food you'll ever experience. Homemade excellence in every bite. I've tried a number of dishes and I've never been disappointed. Their loving attention to detail really shines in their food. Something as simple as their spinach salad is luxuriously elevated with the addition of candied walnuts, a poached pear, a fried nugget of goat cheese and an onion compote.
A couple of my favourite dishes are the aforementioned spinach salad, tourtière, bangers and mash and the ploughman platter. I would confidently suggest that every item on their small menu is prepared with their loyal fans in mind. I've also tried a number of their specials which, as the name would suggest, are truly special.
They have a beautiful list of beers and wine and rotating selections as well.
The restaurant itself is a cozy two-level house in the heart of cabbagetown. It can get loud but the atmosphere is conducive to anything from an intimate date to a family gathering. The service is always down to earth and welcoming. You'll likely even have the owner come by to introduce himself, unless he already knows you by name, which isn't unusual. The prices are extremely reasonable for food you'd otherwise find at a fine dining establishment.
Don't expect fast food, there's love sprinkled on every dish and trust me, it's worth the wait.