Restaurants
Big Mamma's Boy
For people like me who have sensitivities to gluten and lactose, there aren't many great brunch options in the city beyond Big Mamma's Boy.
On a recent Sunday my girlfriend and I claim a table next to the restaurant's big bay window on Parliament street just south of Wellesley in the heart of Cabbagetown. We take a pass on the recommended Morning Glory (sparkling wine and OJ - only $1.99) and instead opt for the more expensive but much needed pick-me-up of coffee and chai tea (with soy milk).
Scanning the menu, we debate whether to order the gluten free rice flour pancakes ($7.95) or organic oatmeal ($5.95) and finally settle on the eggs benedict ($8.95) and organic goat's yogurt served with granola, berries and maple syrup ($5.95). We then proceed to wait. And, um, wait.
While the service at Big Mamma's Boy is friendly, it's also unconscionably slow with a single talented but over-worked chef in the kitchen. It was no big deal for us. We had the morning paper and fuzzy memories from the night before to keep us company but for diners in a rush, this restaurant might best be on your avoid list.
Good thing the food itself can always be the great redeemer. This is the first time in years that I've been able to order eggs benedict in a restaurant. At Big Mamma's Boy, the usual dairy in the hollandaise is replaced by lactose-free goat's yogurt and for an extra buck the eggs and spinach came layered on top of a gluten-free english muffin.
The yogurt and granola was more standard but also successful. Between the charming ambience and the progressive menu, Big Mamma's Boy has earned many repeat visits. Next time we might also bring our meat-eating friends as offerings such as corn beef hash and smoked bacon are all sourced from local farmers.
Big Mamma's Boy, 554 Parliament Street, 416-927-1593
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The chef even came out and personally spoke with my friend (who has numerous food allergies/sensitivities) to devise a made to order dish for her.
The lasagna was great, the atmosphere even better.
Personally I love the cosy atmosphere too...
The absentmindedness of the staff here and probable drug use is enough to make me furious and never ever go back.