There’s no denying it: we’re spoiled for culinary choice in Toronto. But according to Justin Bella, the owner and operator of celebrated Filipino spot BB’s, pushing certain cultural cuisines forward isn’t cheap: “Hiring teams of talented people, sourcing quality ingredients and providing a tier of service in a setting that is reflective of all of those efforts,” Bella lists. His hope is that as more of these restaurants aim for innovation and elevated experiences, diners will embrace an end-of-meal bill that reflects that. As he puts it, “I never hear people complain about $35 pastas, although those same people have a ceiling on how much they’re willing to spend on pad Thai.”
Bella has been bringing all these essential elements together at his Parkdale establishment since it opened in 2022. A rotating menu of reimagined Filipino favourites helped earn BB’s its second consecutive Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction last year. “There is an undeniable comfort found in Filipino cuisine,” Bella says. “That paired with the design inspirations of my Lola’s house results in a universally nostalgic and satisfying experience.”
The caffeine hit
Rooms, 135 Ossington Ave.
“A black Americano at Rooms on Ossington and a dirty chai at Sam James are both staples in my weekly routine. I think people often romanticize the idea of owning a restaurant, but in reality, it is just a series of getting coffee in between the endless errands as a rewarding break from the daily grind. Both spots attract familiar faces, and maybe surprisingly, that’s often the most socializing I’ll fit in my day.”
The long-time favourite
“Union for French-inspired Canadiana. The lunch offering is solid — for me, the mid-rare burger always hits. For dinner, I’m getting the roast chicken with chalet sauce paired with polenta gratin. The menu changes daily, but these classics usually make the cut. It’s a great date spot, but having said that, I’m still single [laughs].”
The best baked goods
Robinson Bread, 6 Brock Ave.
“Robinson’s is a must for me — we use their sourdough for our tartare. As for a sweet treat, the cinnamon swirl is something that always brightens my day. In the summer, they are my favourite table at the Dufferin Grove farmers market.”
The hidden gem
Pepper’s Food & Drink, 189 Wallace Ave.
“I don’t know if Pepper’s is a hidden gem at this point, but the quick service menu in a convenience store setting always hits. My go-to is the yum burger with the mango peach pie. In the summer, you might be lucky enough to catch Chef Julz with the binchotan going on the patio, grilling some salmon heads. Whatever they’ve got going on as a special, I can personally guarantee it’ll be good.”
The delish dessert
Castle & Coal, 108 Dovercourt Rd.
“Last summer, I was on the hunt for the best Kouign-amann. Once the dust settled and my cholesterol came back down, the clear winner was Castle & Coal. There, the buttery, flaky, caramelized perfection often has the option for seasonal injections, but for me, it was the cream and corn addition that blew my mind.”
The cocktail spot
Sari Not Sari, 1566 Queen St. W.
“Sari Not Sari is my favourite place to grab a drink. It’s a bit more of a dance club than a cocktail bar, but after a long shift, sometimes it’s nice to get a drink and shake off a long service. The calamansi-infused-cordial gin and tonic is definitely my got-to. I heard it’s about to undergo some renovations and be something more grown-folks-oriented, and this ol’ guy is looking forward to it.”
The repeat reservation
“What I love about this place is that I think of it as an amazing restaurant first and foremost, which also happens to serve amazing Filipino food. I always recommend the tasting menu, but Chef Dan Cancino’s tuna kinilaw and sinigang are must-haves with the ube leche flan to finish. If I was rich, I’d eat there every day.”
