rev:text
| - Let's cut to the chase - this place doesn't mess around with their desserts. Cake smoothies? Cookie smoothies? PIE SMOOTHIES? Oh be still my slowly becoming diabetic heart. If you're after something a little more traditional, they do stock the aforementioned treats (mostly Sweets of the Earth creations as far as I can tell) sans smoothie, as well as some other lovely in-house treats like apple fritters (take a deep breath in when these arrive at your table, it's like inhaling an apple pie).
Now i've got the afters out of the way, let me address the 'fores. There's always a daily chef's special and soup of the day - these always look fantastic and the staff really sell them. On more than one occasion they've lured me away from the set menu with their wiles. Appetisers lean toward a dim sum offering, with selections like dumplings, tempura, fresh rice paper rolls and - my favourite - crispy, savoury tofu drumsticks.
Mains have changed somewhat in 2010 at Veg Haven - the focus has shifted more toward asian (or asian-inspired) dishes (apart from, perhaps, the salads). Hearty tofu clay pot stews, stir-fried noodle dishes, sizzling seitan plates and a couple of curries. I miss the seitan burger, but there's still enough appeal that it takes me forever to decide what I want. And hopefully leave room for the desserts mentioned above!
The restaurant itself is clean and relaxed, the decor is classy without being overwhelmingly upmarket, and the patio affords a nice view of the lovely Baldwin street area. At just a short stroll away from the AGO, it's worth heading to the area to enjoy the relaxed vibe and sit out on Veg Haven's patio for some delicious eats.
Apart from the dining and food experience, Vegetarian Haven are supporters of Toronto's vegetarian community - Toronto Vegetarian Association is situated upstairs, and if you scan the noticeboard near the washrooms you'll see evidence of their continued contributions to animal charities. It's lovely to see that the owners have their heart in providing a cruelty-free environment and experience for diners.
|