Simply Nosh Bistro
2210 Dundas St W
Phone: 416.645.0237
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Simply Nosh Bistro has a sign that's been attracting my attention for the last couple of months.
This Roncesvalles brunch spot, which replaced B in January but closed for two months earlier in the year, sits at the apex of Dundas West and Roncesvalles Ave. Its red lettered sign is perfectly positioned to catch the eye as you approach the intersection.
As befits its name, Simply Nosh serves a good selection of embellished bistro staples: basic pastas, salads and a myriad of egg based breakfasts (omelettes, poached eggs and multiple, inventive frittata choices).
There is something about visiting Simply Nosh that is, fleetingly, very slightly trepidation inspiring.
The combination of it's temporary-looking signage and sparsely decorated but conspicuously accessorized interior gives a bit of a transient impression. You'd be forgiven for thinking it had either just opened or that it's open status was permanently in question.
Once seated though, the relaxed atmosphere doesn't reflect this at all. Stacks of newspapers and magazines are available to peruse, divertingly coloured local art covers the walls and menus come enclosed in eclectic vinyl album covers.
We order coffee and try not to keep our server waiting too long as we finalize our choices from the extremely appealing selection available.
My friend gets the irresistible trio of french toast ($11.95) which is composed of maple crunch, blueberry and cream-cheese filled variations.
A tasting platter of french toast is a damn appealing notion, especially on an empty stomach and it doesn't disappoint. A side of homemade berry compote and a litre bottle of maple syrup for free pouring at your own discretion help to amp up the indulgence factor.
The smoked salmon organic salad ($10.25) includes sautéed potato wedges, delicious house dressing and is impressively tasty despite it's simplicity.
A light and scrumptious soft omelette with tomato, olive and gruyère filling ($8.95) comes with dressed salad greens, sautéed potatoes and buttered toast.
Our server also thoughtfully brings a jar of home made jam and extra butter with the food, just in case we want to further augment our breakfasts.
Simply Nosh Bistro is a great addition to Roncesvalles, especially as there are relatively few designated brunch places in the neighbourhood. The service is friendly and it's still quiet enough that you can easily get a table and linger if you want to, even at weekends.
Opening hours 8.30 a.m-3.30 p.m, Tuesday-Sunday.
Photos by Emma McIntyre
Comments (14)
My mouth actually started salivating at the photo of the smoked salmon. And having arrived back from a month-long jaunt to France, I'm craving a good Croque Monsieur - will definitely give this place a visit! :)
I mourned (and still mourn) the loss of B's from the 'hood. Even without comparing it to B's, I was disappointed with my meal at Simply Nosh, to the point where I've had no desire to return. Service was friendly, I'll give them that, but my fritatta was forgettable.
As a local I have a real problem with this "review". How can you say there isn't many brunch spots in Roncesvalles? What about Brad's or Tintos? Simply Nosh isn't in the same league as these places. Don't even get me started about how much I miss B's.
I will say that the staff was very friendly, but I am no hurry to go back.
RIP B's.
great food, stellar coffee, friendly staff and chef - B is gone, deal with it and check it out -
I went to B's once and I noticed they could of fit more people, something that Simply Nosh has taken care of with smaller tables and a better layout.
Haven't tried Simply Nosh yet, but I will now.
I do agree with Sean, there are a lot of places to get brunch in Roncy's;
Aris Grill
Aris Place
Brad's
Butler's Pantry
Freshwood
River
Sunrise
Tinto
Easy - technically speaking it is in Parkdale, but it is on the border of Roncy's so I'll include it
All of them aren't devoted 100% to brunch, but they all have something to offer. If you want a standard brunch with volume and a good price go to Aris Place, Aris Grill or Sunrise. If you want something a little different go to Tinto's, Butlers Pantry or Easy.
Personally my favourite is Brad's. It is the kind of place that has a small menu but you want everything on it, and I've never been let down by my selection.
Nosh is a unique slice from Brad's, Sunrise and Tinto, which are all good in their own respects, but this place offers something a bit finer in the food and service. Coupled with the contemporary art-gallery setting, and it's open yet quiet setting, it's a great alternative from the norms on Ronc. Check it out if you haven't, the prices are right.
Have to agree on the it's vs. its. I find it hard to give an article any credibility if it can't nail that particular grammar rule down within the first sentence.
Honestly, let's not get hung up on the grammar of the article, people. Why not focus on the gorgeous photography and delicious-looking food?
Just brunched at Nosh- quality service that walked that line of attentive but not pushy and excellent food; will eat there again! Two thumbs up.
Best brunch in Roncesvalles. Executive Chef is a certified Canadian Chef de Cuisine and has Nutritionist backgrounds. Worked in Fairmont Royal York, Sheraton, Shangri-la and Bermuda and has won several awards in culinary competition locally and abroad.
Food is so tasty and presentation is superbly put together with details and right portion size. Non-gene organic carrots is worth trying. Menu is simple yet sophicated and nutritious. Every dishes on the menu is worth trying and prices are below $10. Check it out yourself.
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