This week’s Notable Neighbourhood is the ritzy Rosedale, a real estate heaven the slightest hop north of downtown that’s home to some of the city’s top names. We head up this way quite a bit – the mecca of LCBOs is just at Summerhill, after all – and have a few choice favourites we can’t help but pop by on the regular.
Black Camel
This spot is famous amongst locals. The sandwiches are massive, and its been around awhile. Black Camel sandwiches were in before gourmet sandwiches took over the city…and they still do it better than a lot of the rest. Try the pulled chicken, or the insanely tender beef brisket. Don’t forget to check them out on Twitter before heading over…they often sell out in the warmer months.
Rebel House
For near two decades now the Rebel House has been kitschifying Yonge Street near Rosedale station. It’s a great little Brit-like pub with a fantastic back patio in the summer. The food’s generous and great for a bar of this nature, and the beer list, while not massive, is well thought out and a break away from the traditional selects. PS We always order the ‘Daily Bread’…
Caffe Doria
This great little cafe does wonders considering it’s right across from the Starbucks. It helps that its side patio gets great sun from noon till dusk. Order whatever you’d like here, nothing is subpar. Try the margherita pizza or the turkey panini while you gab with your group and sip on lattes. It’s a great spot for weekend brunch, too.
Bar Centrale
Terroni’s Bar Centrale is what you’d expect from this favourite hospitality company: a trendy atmosphere, great Italian fare, and the wine list to boot. The seating’s tight, but that’s what helps give it some of it’s charm. The beautiful food served in the beautiful space is part of the next level Terroni experience. Definitely worth the jaunt north of Bloor.
Pastis
In 2010 Joanne Kates named Pastis the best restaurant in Toronto. It’s French done right, and can always be counted on to impress. Make a reservation here, as it can get quite busy unexpectedly. The lobster that’s been butter roasted is heaven, and there’s foie gras on the menu. But what really makes Pastis shine is the service and the unpretentious atmosphere for a spot that serves food of this insane quality. It’s a must-go…so go.
Photo courtesy Caffe Doria