Toronto is a city of neighbourhoods, says Blackbird Baking Co. co-founder Simon Blackwell. “We love how many small, independent neighbourhood restaurants are tucked into side streets, where people live, work, gather and eat,” according to Blackwell.
And, he says, wherever you go in the world, you will find a bakery at the heart of the community.
Blackwell’s mission has always been to bring great bread to Toronto neighbourhoods, from Kensington Market and Riverside to St. Lawrence Market and, now, Mirvish Village, where Blackbird just opened its new location.
In addition to their signature sourdough bread — naturally leavened, long-fermented and hearth-baked in thermal-oil ovens — Blackwell and his partner and co-founder Kelsey Blackwell have branched out into seasonal pastries, house-made sandwiches and spreads and a new coffee program at the Annex spot.
“For the first time, we can welcome people to sit down and gather together,” he says, “and we look forward to hosting small community meetings and events in that space, to honour the original spirit of Mirvish Village.”
So where does Blackwell himself head for good vibes and tasty treats? He shared some of his favourite eateries with us here.
Best date-night spot
Bar Raval, 505 College St.
“We live in Little Italy, and are lucky to have Bar Raval as our local with their welcoming and knowledgeable team and gorgeous room. A Spanish Fizz followed by a glass of Albariño and delicious food creates an experience that always feels like date night.”
Hidden gem
The Fish Shop, 657 College St.
“The Hwang Family make fresh, delicious sandwiches on simple Portuguese buns that are so good, and a fresh limeade. You can also buy fresh fish to bring home for your supper, and they always tuck a whole lemon into your bag.”
Repeat reservation
N.L. Ginzburg, 548 College St.
“Being tucked at the bar at a warm, beautiful room, with delicious food, an excellent wine list and generous service is always a pleasure.”
The last best thing I ate
“Their burrata, basil and beet salad is summer in a bowl.”
Fancy dinner
“We opt for a fancy lunch instead: Sunday lunch with Tobey Nemeth and Michael Caballo is the place we go to celebrate life’s special moments; the room is simple and the service welcoming, offering up incredibly sophisticated dishes using the best fresh ingredients that create lasting memories.”
Comfort food
Pho Hung, various locations
“There is nothing more comforting than sitting in the morning sun next to the window in front of a steaming bowl of beef pho topped with aromatic cilantro and sriracha.”
Best dessert
Barbershop Patisserie, 859 College St.
“Their buttermilk chocolate fudge cake with chocolate-pudding ganache is, hands-down, the best cake in the city.”
Lunch spot
Donna’s, 827 Lansdowne Ave.
“Sitting at a sunny table, ordering the pea salad with the potato tortilla or any of their sandwiches, is a perfect start to an afternoon.”
Best takeout
Oroshi Fish Co., 962 College St.
“It’s a seafood-lover’s paradise, with beautiful dry-aged fish at very reasonable prices.”
Favourite weekend breakfast place
Lady Marmalade, 265 Broadview Ave.
“My go-to is their classic breakfast with golden eggs, sausages, crisp home fries and proper sourdough toast.”
Best cocktail bar
Bar Pompette, 607 College St.
“I get their French twist on a dirty martini, the cornichon, which is made with next-level detail from dill pickle distillate, house-made dill oil and a skewered cornichon.”
Place I’m dying to try
Casa Rubia, 293 Palmerston Ave.
“I’m looking forward to the opening of Grant van Gameren, Hailey Burke and Zach Smith’s new Spanish restaurant Casa Rubia, right next door to Bar Raval.”
