Food notes
What an uncertain time for our neighbourhood restaurants and small businesses! But they’re finding ways to make life pleasant for us all, with limited seating, new outdoor options, and lots of delivery and take-out possibilities. As spring advances, things can only get better.
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The Bridge Public House,
1 Donald St.
It’s another COVID pivot for The Bridge Public House team. For April, the restaurant’s takeout menu and meals @ home series are available for pickup from 3:30-7:30 p.m. between Wednesday and Friday. If you’re yearning for a springtime BBQ, the Bridge is also offering Curbside BBQ pick-up every Friday and Saturday between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Stay tuned in May for the possible reopening of indoor and terrace dining, as well as The Bridge Public House’s newly-created front lobby bistro (see photo). Visit thebridgepublichouse.com/whats-happening-now for the latest updates.
Working Title Kitchen + Cafe,
330 Laurier Ave. E.
This neighbourhood favourite reopened its bakery over the Easter weekend. Grab a hot drink and pastry to go and look forward to soon sampling the new recipes that Chef Brendan Murphy and Pastry Chef Christophe Measson have been testing.
Cadena Spanish Restaurant and Tapas Bar,
323 Somerset St. E.
Cadena’s Spanish-style shrimp are just as delicious as ever, served with a creamy garlic sauce and bread to soak it up. There are lots of interesting pasta dishes on the menu, too, as well as the traditional Spanish offerings like empanadas and paella. Order a day in advance if you want to be sure of getting the leg of lamb that’s advertised on their sidewalk sandwich board.
Fleur Kitchen,
287 Somerset St. E.
It’s good to see that the winter closure did not turn out to be permanent for the former Fleur Tea, which is in the process of reinventing itself. The word “Tea” has come down from the facade but has yet to be replaced by “Kitchen.” The shelves of gift items are gone, making for a more streamlined seating area inside. If the whiteboard promising pizza and Philly cheese steak is any indication, the cafe is still aiming for student appetites. Hours can be a little erratic during renovations so it’s best to call ahead if you’re looking for lunch: 613-606-7280.
KAZ kitchen + grocery,
207 Guigues Ave.
If the spring weather is inspiring you to take an extra-long walk, head to Lowertown and check out this depanneur at the corner of Guigues and Cumberland. The store stocks an interesting selection of groceries, meats, and prepared foods, and offers hot food for takeaway. Check their Facebook page for the daily soup and sandwich offerings, or pick up some house-seasoned burger patties, a container of spicy tomato soup, or a tender-crusted pie to serve at home.
Safi Fine Foods,
296 Somerset St. E.
Safi’s building permit has finally come through, and the much-missed store is on its way to opening in its shiny new premises in May or early June. Many fans are looking forward to checking it out!