On a recent sunny Sunday afternoon, Andrea, Isabel and I met for brunch at Dirty Food, located in Toronto’s “The Junction” neighbourhood, on Dundas Street West. It was pretty great time.
(To fill you in on these ladies : Isabel and I met at a mutual workplace many years ago, and became fast friends. Then, Andrea and Isabel met at a subsequent workplace. And then I met Andrea after Isabel invited us both to an event, the one written about in this post. Now, we’re a happy trio of friends!)
Dirty Food serves brunch from 8am until 3pm every day except Wednesdays, and is operated by Andrea’s close friends. Of course, this connection caused it to be at the top of my “must try” list, however, so did all the positive buzz I’ve heard about it, in general, including an impressive 4.5/5 star rating on Yelp.
Being friends with the owners didn’t pull any strings in the line-up at this popular place though, and we waited in the line-up with everyone else. Well, I should say that Isabel and Andrea waited in line (for about 20 minutes) — I got the address mixed up, so arrived late, just after they’d been seated. Given the delicious food and very friendly service, I think I can speak for them when I say that it was worth the wait.
The menu is filled with dependable brunch choices, each enhanced with the addition of unique house-made details — My Eggs Benedict (called “Eggs Jenny”) contained sauteed greens under the lush hollandaise, and Isabel’s Fried Chicken with waffles was crowned by a little heap of candied jalapenos (I tasted them — so good!). Andrea’s hamburger was topped with pickled beets, pineapple aioli and a fried egg.
↑ Restaurant co-owner Leslie, with the goods. ↑
All was accompanied by their really good hot sauce. If they decide to one day sell bottles of it, I’ll definitely buy some.
To drink, Andrea and I had a “Dirty Caesar”, a Clamato Juice and Vodka cocktail, transformed to perfection with homemade beet juice and a pickled okra garnish (I thought I hated okra. Apparently not when it’s pickled and served in a Caesar!) Isabel was getting over a cold, so opted for hot tea — the server thoughtfully offered to bring her some honey to have with it.
It’s those small extra touches that make a place special and memorable, and Dirty Food Eatery nails it!
Thanks for reading. I hope you’re having a good week.
xo loulou
