The Reveal - The Edmund Burke
The Gist: Owners Russ Piffer & Ginger Robertson have lived in the Danforth area for a long time and as bartenders/servers, are fans of neighbourhood spots and wanted something "cool and casual" near Broadview.
The couple has completely transformed the former Das Gasthaus (FYI - they didn’t win the contest) into a cozy, welcoming spot to get a drink or bite to eat.
Grub: Elevated pub fare includes modern dishes and Paleo-friendly items such as Bone Broth ($6) and brunch options of Savoury Oatmeal Risotto ($11) and Baked Tempeh Stuffed Pepper ($11).
The menu boasts healthy choices but there's still fun to be had. Local ingredients are used as much as possible.
Libations: There’s a lot of beer including twelve taps (two are rotating craft beers), wine, and a new cocktail list is in the works.
Fixtures & Fittings: While the banquettes and chairs remain from the former location, Robertson stripped and refinished the bar herself. The industrial draft tap design was done by local Ryan Matchett.
Walls are decorated with photos (hello Michael Ondaatje) and interesting knick-knacks Roberston picked up along the way (a plate of where Piffer was born). Check out the photo of this building from 1908 before you go.
The name pays homage, not just to the architect of the nearby bridge, but "this incredible part if the city" says Robertson.
Off the Menu:
Mixed Greens Salad ($10) with shaved radish, scallions and mint white wine vinaigrette is fresh and vibrant – ideal in this hot summer weather.
A heap of Smoked Whitefish Pate ($8) is dotted with herbs and served with garlic-toasted crostini. The rustic spread is still elegant, thanks to fine technique.
Bare Bones Broth ($6) is so good, you’ll want a couple to go (yes, they do takeout – please bring your own mason jar). A house recipe gets simmered with fresh herbs, mushrooms and garlic from 24-48 hours. The result is herbaceous with real depth, without being heavy in the least.
Available in beef or chicken and soon, vegetable.
Robertson’s Chicken Schnitzel ($16) is "to give you the schnitzel that should have been." Pan-seared and then finished in the oven, the thick breast remains tender and moist underneath a crispy toasted exterior. Served with brown butter sage spaetzle, expertly cooked seasonal vegetables (today it’s crisp asparagus, parsnip and carrots) and lemon aioli.
The mile-high (just try and get it all in in one bite) Chicago-Style Beef Burger ($16) comes with aged cheddar, garlic aioli, frizzled onions on brioche bun, and a side of either fries or salad. Fantastic fries BTW (they’re so golden, you’ll swear they’re sweet potato).
How Cool is This?! They’ll be a part of Thrill of the Grill happening Saturday July 9th. And new this year, all participating restaurants will be serving their food in front of their establishments.
At the Stove: Chef John Robertson
FOH: Russ Piffer & Ginger Robertson
Head Honchos: Russ Piffer & Ginger Robertson
Visiting Hours: Mon-Thurs: 4pm - 2am
Fri: 2pm – 2am
Sat-Sun: 11am - 2am
Map It: 107 Danforth Ave. (at Broadview)
Phone It In: (416) 466-7600
Check out our Facebook page for more photos.