BRUNCH Spots in Toronto’s Riverside

Start your day off right with brunch in Riverside when you come out to take in The Sounds of Leslieville & Riverside July 6th to 8th, a part of the Beaches International Jazz Festival ! This is your handy guide to amazing local brunch options.

The origins of brunch are a bit hazy, some say it was founded in England as a meal served to nobility after the hunt, others think is was invented by fasting Catholics who wanted to feast after church service. Still others believe it became popular as the many women who had entered the work force after the war could have a break and enjoy a meal out with their families.

If you’re in need of a big cup of coffee or tea and are on a timeline you might want to check out Boxcar Social (4 Boulton Ave), right at Boulton Ave, one of the Sounds of Leslieville & Riverside’s prime BLOCK PARTY locations, they have a curated list of coffees and delicious early morning eats! If coffee is not your thing you can grab a fresh juice or smoothie just a few blocks west at Pulp Kitchen (689 Queen E), they also offer great gluten free & vegan options. If you need to grab and go on a budget, get a bagel or croissant with a coffee or tea at the Broadview Bakery and Deli (728 Queen St E) . If you’re going for a full brunch experience with table service then be sure to check out these local favorites:

WHITE LILY DINER – 678 Queen St East

All Day Breakfast/Brunch served Wednesdays to Sundays — 9AM to 10PM

White Lily Diner is a charming spot steps west of Queen and Broadview. The food is eclectic and elevated but stays true to pure diner values. Photos of old Riverside hang on the walls along with a photo of one of the owner’s grandparents. It’s sure to satisfy the hungries at whatever hour of the day you happen to wander in. Check out the menu here.

BONJOUR BRIOCHE – 812 Queen Street East

Breakfast daily Tues-Sun, Brunch served Sat and Sun — Open 8AM to 4PM

Located right at De Grassi Street (yes the famous street, and one of the Sounds of Leslieville & Riverside’s prime BLOCK PARTY locations), this French bakery and café has been the go to brunch spot in Riverside for 25 years years and judging by the lineups outside it is still going strong. Some classic brunch favorites are the Daily Quiche, the Croque Madame or the Tart du Jour are always delicious and the Croissants and Pastries are out of this world. If you can’t get to Paris at least come here. Check out the menu here.

THE PEASANT TABLE – 782 Queen Street East

Brunch served Saturdays and Sundays — 10AM to 4PM

How about brunch with an Italian Twist? If you want to Mangia Benne (Eat Well) this is the place to go. The casual, warm and cozy atmosphere will make you feel right at home. Chef Boris who spent many years cooking in some of the finest restaurants all over Europe, has a way of blending flavors to create truly spectacular food. This place is truly a neighborhood gem. Check out the menu here.

PROHIBITION GASTROHOUSE – 696 Queen Street East

Brunch served Saturdays and Sundays — 10AM to 3PM

A fixture in the neighborhood for many years, this is a roomy upscale-casual gastro pub with friendly service and great atmosphere. They are passionate about what they do and it shows. Check out the menu here.

SUGAR LOAF – 729 Queen St East 

Brunch served everyday — 9AM to 2PM

Brunch is served daily (9:00am to 2:00pm) with favourites that include Croque Madame, Black Truffle Terrine, Continental Breakfast, Eggs Benedict and Waffles. Join us for decadent treats such as Beignets (light and airy French style doughnut), Cinnamon Rolls and desserts in a jar. You are invited to indulge, because that’s exactly what weekends are for. Check out the menu which even includes a delicious vegan option Shakshuka!

 

With all these great options (and more!) available during The Sounds of Leslieville & Riverside, it’s definitely hard to pick just one, but not to worry, you’re always welcome back for more! Be sure to snap and share a picture of your experience in any of our neighbourhood spots with hashtag #‎RiversideTO.

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Check out more handy blogs as part of the Riverside Eats & Shops series – your handy guide to some of Riverside’s best during The Sounds of Leslieville & Riverside Block Party (and everyday!), including coming up:

Big thanks to Beaches International Jazz Festival for bringing the awesome Sounds of Leslieville & Riverside BLOCK PARTY to Riverside!

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