The Top 10 Brunch Restaurants On St. Clair West

St. Clair West has been climbing up Toronto’s to-watch list. The area is a welcome reprieve from the hustle of Downtown and is all the more convenient with the streetcar-only lane. Follow this guide to discover the top 10 brunch restaurants in this up-and-coming neighbourhood.

1. Emma's Country Kitchen

Restaurant, Cafe, Diner, European

Emma’s Country Kitchen, located just east of Dufferin, specializes in breakfast. Serving a small, dynamic menu, paired with a warm country-diner style interior, Emma’s food and atmosphere feels like home. A fan-favourite, Emma’s Breakwhich features a soft fried egg and either sausage or bacon between two melt-in-your-mouth butter biscuits. Come in early on the weekends for first dibs at Emma’s notorious donuts, they’re so good customers have been known to ask for the glaze leftovers.

2. Starving Artist

Restaurant, Bar, European

Starving Artist waffle house has garnered a cult-like following and recently opened its third location on the St. Clair strip. The bright and airy restaurant boats a generous amount of seating and a variety of both sweet and savoury breakfast options as well as a to-go coffee bar. In addition to the regular waffles (a staple), the potato-waffles and caramelized bacon are both must-trys.

3. The Stockyards

Diner, Restaurant, American, BBQ

The Stockyards knows how to draw a crowd. A self-proclaimed ‘modern day interpretation of the family diner,’ The Stockyards does comfort food well. It is best known for its burgers and ribs, but the fried chicken & waffles are a well-deserved treat for those looking for more than a bite to eat in the morning. These Belgian waffles are topped with fried chicken and a chili maple molasses citrus glaze.

5. Pain Perdu

Pain Perdu

The quintessential French café bakeshop, Pain Perdu draws a consistent morning crowd. Satisfy your morning cravings with delicate, buttery croissants or more substantial plates such as omelettes. The classic pain perdu, French toast, (which translates to ‘lost bread’ in French) topped with fresh fruit and authentic (and organic) maple syrup has yet to be beaten.

Pain Perdu, 736 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON, Canada +1 416 656 7246

6. Mabel's Bakery

Bakery, Cafe, Canadian, American, Fast Food

Mabel’s has everything you need for a sweeter morning. Featuring a variety of coffees (with cold brew in the warmer months), loose teas, breads, and sweets, Mabel’s tops the list for an on-the-go breakfast choice. The bakery also carries Bagel House bagels and serves them toasted with a variety of toppings. Mabel’s is home to some of the best croissants around town, which usually sell out quickly, so be sure to get there early. If you’re in a rush but still want a quality meal, Mabel’s breakfast cups are perfect for a quick bite. A cracked egg baked in a perfectly shaped bread cup, there are different flavours every day with at least one meat and one vegetarian option.

7. Baker & Scone

Baker & Scone

Baker & Scone is a quaint bakeshop specializing in scones of all kinds. With over 15 alternating options from chai to vanilla, you’ll be sure to find the perfect scone, whether savoury or sweet. Embrace your inner Englishman and enjoy a scone and cuppa. Any scone is perfect paired with tea, though you can’t go wrong with the cheddar, chive, and dill scone as a savoury option.

Baker & Scone, 693 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON, Canada +1 416 657 2663

8. World Class Bakers

Bakery, Canadian, American, Pastries, Fast Food

World Class Bakers is easy to miss. However, with goods baked fresh daily on-site, the bakery is a staple for locals looking for warm breads, sweets, coffee, and hot table foods. The breakfast special is straightforward (eggs, toast, and your choice of meat) and hits the spot.

9. Tre Mari Bakery

Bakery, Bar, Cafe, Italian, Canadian, American, Pastries, Fast Food

Tre Mari is one of St. Clair West’s best-kept secrets. A staple in the community, Tre Mari has been family-run for over 50 years. The friendly and lively atmosphere is a fine addition to the homestyle Italian foods, sweets, and baked goods which are sure to remind Italians of their Nona’s cooking. Equipped with a coffee bar and exceptional espresso, Tre Mari is worth a sit-down visit.

10. Nova Era Bakery

Bakery, Cafe, American, Canadian, Fast Food, Pastries

Nova Era is popular among locals. For an authentic taste of Portugal outside of Little Portugal, Nova Era provides one’s healthy dose of Pasteis De Nata (custard tarts), as well as more practical early-morning staples. Get here early enough to beat the worker rush, and enjoy your pick at fresh breads and baked goods.

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