Years ago, before the current owners of the Lakeview purchased the restaurant, I went for lunch with a friend. It was sad to see what could potentially be a great space, being neglected. I can't remember if this was before or after the fire. I thought no one would turn the place around and it'd end up being demolished or gutted, like so many cool spots in Toronto end up.
Well that's all changed with the current owners. The Lakeview Lunch has a life and energy that was missing when I went with my friend many years ago. It's physically all fixed up, without losing the charm or sacrificing the wonderful wood detail in the bar, booths or fixtures.
The food is incredible and consistently great every time I've been in the past few years. The servers always surprise me with how nice they are considering that some of the clientele can be insufferable, annoying hipsters who talk as loud as humanly possible.
My only complaint would be that if you are in a booth next to a loud group, you won't be able to hear yourself. Maybe the reno should have included some acoustical panelling.
Their Mac and Cheese is the best I think I've ever had. They have a good brunch. It's a fun place.