Queen and Broadview is a storied intersection in the annals of Toronto comfort food, given that it once housed venerated diner Dangerous Dan’s. Now, the Broadview Hotel hopes to recapture a bit of that old-school magic with its nostalgic new spot, Archie’s. Cosy dishes like steak pot pie, hashbrown tartare and chicken schnitzel showcase the kind of cooking executive chef Artem Shcherbina enjoys most: “seasonal ingredients, good technique and flavour.”
Here are the spots Shcherbina visits when he wants to savour different flavours.
Best date-night spot
Grey Gardens, 199 Augusta Ave.
“They have great lighting and ambiance, an interesting wine list and sophisticated food, but the atmosphere feels relaxed and natural: special without being overly formal, which is exactly what I want for a date night.”
Hidden gem
Tiflisi, 1970 Queen St. E.
“Georgian food has so much depth and generosity, and this is a great place to experience it. I like to order the lamb khinkali and adjaruli khachapuri and share at the table. It’s comforting, flavourful food that’s made for eating together.”
Repeat reservation
The Wood Owl, 1380 Danforth Ave.
“It’s the kind of neighbourhood restaurant I’m always happy to go back to. The cooking is thoughtful and seasonal, the atmosphere is intimate and relaxed, and there’s usually something new on the menu that catches my attention.”
Last best thing you ate
Bar Isabel, 797 College St.
“Their Basque cake is one of those desserts that really sticks with you. It’s simple but incredibly well executed, and the balance of the rich cake with the sherry cream makes it something I’d happily order again.”
Current obsession
“I keep thinking about the way they bring Korean and Japanese influences together. The cooking is thoughtful and restrained, and there’s so much attention paid to technique and ingredients without anything feeling overworked.”
Fancy dinner
Scaramouche, 1 Benvenuto Pl.
“It’s a Toronto classic for a reason. The food and service are consistently great, and the dining room has one of the best views in the city. It’s the kind of place that still feels special every time I return.”
Comfort food
Descendant Detroit Style Pizza, 1168 Queen St. E.
“It always hits the spot when I’m craving something comforting. The pizza has that perfect contrast of crispy, caramelized edges and a soft, airy centre, and it’s rich and satisfying without being overly complicated. It’s definitely one of my east-end go-tos.”
Best dessert
Mon K Patisserie, 1040 Coxwell Ave.
“They do a great job of combining classic French pastry technique with Japanese flavours. The matcha Mont Blanc is a standout; it’s light, balanced and not overly sweet, with the matcha coming through really nicely. I also love the attention to detail in their pastries. Everything feels precise without being overly complicated.”
Lunch spot
White Lily Diner, 678 Queen St. E.
“The food is thoughtful and really well executed, but still has that comforting diner feel. The sandwiches are a standout, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it an easy place to come back to again and again.”
Best takeout
Moti Mahal, various locations
“I like ordering a mix of dishes for the table so everyone can try a bit of everything. The flavours are bold, the portions are generous and it’s an easy option when you’re feeding a group.”
Favourite weekend breakfast
Bodega Henriette, 1801 Gerrard St. E.
“It has such a relaxed neighbourhood feel. I usually go for the breakfast sandwich and a coffee: simple, comforting and really well done. It’s a great place for a slower weekend brunch and always feels fresh and well executed.”
Place I’m dying to try
Corduroy Lounge, 1012 Queen St. E.
“It seems to have quickly become a neighbourhood hotspot in the east end. I love that they’ve leaned into seasonal Sunday traditions, from roasts through the winter to lobster rolls in the summer.”
