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| - Took my wife here for Valentines Day. I made reservations via Open Table a few days in advance which made me a little nervous since there were prime time spots available still so close to V-day.
When we arrived I was nervous when I was told by the girl at the maitre d station that I didnt have reservations. I offered to produce my confirmation email but the manager stepped up and told me that he would accommodate us without reservations (the place was at approx 15% capacity) and sat us promptly in a nice 4 person table with a view into the open style kitchen. A few minutes later the manager came back and told me he had found our reservations and that he had to switch our table. A slight annoyance the whole ordeal but he was profusely apologetic and throughout the night very friendly and attentive (he wasn't our waiter).
We were sat further at the back which was fine (closer to the small stage where a jazz band would play later).
*Decor*
Very nice and warm. Exposed brick, open kitchen design, nice lighting. Theres a big area at the back that could be used as event space for a band, open mic, etc. with the front area being more of a restaurant. Reminds me of Czehoski a lot in full compliment but uniquely different. Habits would be a great place for a date or a night out with the significant other.
*Food*
Food was much better then expected for the price range. We were greeted with a free amuse bouche of some pineapple square thing. I dont know what to call it. It was good though.
Our appetizer was a cheeseboard. For $15 we received a bowl of herbed and toasted croustinis together with good portions of 3 different cheeses (blue, a smoked cheese and a fresh parm?), a fruit jam (nothing like a store bought jam, it was amazing and smokey!), and some fruits. It was a great appetizer that I would order again. Perfect serving for 2-3 people.
My wife had the oxtail ravioli (~$20) on a sunchoke puree which she liked a lot.
I had the habits burger ($16). It was suggested to have it cooked medium for optimal favour. I was a little hesitant about it (pink ground beef for me isnt something Im accustomed to; a rare steak is). The burger was delicious, and well seasoned with herbs. Don't expect a typical hamburger, there is some unique flavours going on in this hamburger. It came on a nice brioche and a small helping of excellent french fries. A much different take on the "gourmet" hamburger thats been all the rage in Toronto the last few years. Despite the waitresses suggestion I think I would have my burger cooked to medium well just out of personal preference (there wasnt any stomach distress after) so rest assured with the waitresses recommendation if pink ground beef is okay with you. Habits gets huge points for actually letting me know in advance about what I would be getting.
I do want to note the portions are slightly small. The food quality and taste is well above the price point; the portions might fall a little short. A big eater might be a little disappointed, a regular or light eater can expect not to take a doggie bag home.
I had two different drinks:
Canadian Smash (rye, orange, mint, lime, honey) and Raspberry Paloma (raspberry infused teq, lime, grapefruit and soda). They were okay, a little watery, a little juicy. All drinks come with 2oz and I believe them; I think the issue is that the glass was so large with so much mixer and ice I didnt taste much spirit in either drink. Great recipes but the execution could be tweaked a bit.
*Service*
Outside of the disorganization at the beginning about the reservation and table arrangement; the service was friendly, fast, and attentive. No pretention, no attitude, no disinterest by the waitstaff all of which I find common in Toronto. There was that sense or urgency in every request made and that assurance that everything would be taken care of promptly and correctly. I give credit to the manager and waitress as they both did an excellent job at impressing my wife and I.
Overall I am going to return to Habits and I'll post a follow up review. Food taste was excellent, service was great, some the the execution and portions are just slightly lacking. I'm hoping my gripes were just V-day jitters. See you soon guys.
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