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At the end of a weekend of frivolity, urbanistas need to unwind over brunch—to fortify themselves for the shopping or museum-hopping ahead. Whether your version is caffeine-fueled or “hair of the dog,” these top brunch spots will fill you up, allow you to de-brief with friends, and help you gently transition back to your Monday world.
Best Brunches in....
Best Brunches
Toronto
Gallery Grill 7 Hart House Circle, 2nd Fl., 647-259-8736 gallerygrill.com
The Draw: A flawless combination of refined, inventive cuisine and a quietly elegant space makes this resto a consistent favorite. The Scene: An Old World atmosphere—think vaulted ceilings, coat-of-arms flatware, chandeliers, and Gothic Revival masonry—is the backdrop for chef Suzanne Baby’s comfortable yet cosmopolitan cuisine. A mix of fashionable 30-somethings and professorial types dine on dishes such as house-marinated fresh mackerel, and soft-poached eggs with smoked trout and brioche toast. Sept–Jun Mon–Fri 11:30am–1:30pm, Sun 11am–1pm $$ Hot Tip: If there’s a wait for a table, head downstairs to the recently renovated Justina M. Barnicke Gallery to see its distinct collection of historical and contemporary Canadian art.
The Draw: Chef Jamie Kennedy’s devotion to locally sourced ingredients offers the food-obsessed special access to the latest stars of direct-from-the-farm products. The Scene: The simple, functional dining room is punctuated by a refrigerated case featuring recent creations of the Kennedy kitchens. On the menu are homemade soups, breads, locally raised meat, a popular smoked pickerel, and several dishes highlighting Prince Edward County boutique wines. Mon–Sat 8:30am–5:30pm, Sun 11am–2:30pm. $$ Hot Tip: Beat the crowds by arriving early, and on Sunday morning try the hot-from-the-oven whims of the pastry staff.
Lady Marmalade 898 Queen St. E., Leslieville/Riverdale, 647-351-7645 ladymarmalade.ca
The Draw: Simple, tasty brunch staples highlighted with fresh local produce and a dash of organic ingredients—the perfect recipe for a mid-morning weekend meal. The Scene: Film industry types between projects, laidback locals, and yoga girls head to this pretty diner in trendy east-end Leslieville for chef-owner David Cherry’s generously portioned breakfast menu. Options include savory waffles, French toast, unique versions of egg Bennies, and some Mexican-influenced options such as huevos rancheritos and huevos migas. Mon–Fri 8am–4pm, Sat–Sun 8am–3pm. $ Hot Tip: The Brie-avocado-bacon Benny is a perennial fave with customers and critics alike.
