Brunch isn't just a meal—it’s a lifestyle. In Toronto, this mid-morning meal has taken on a life of its own, and nowhere is this more evident than in the neighbourhoods of Riverside and Leslieville. Nestled in the city’s east end, these vibrant communities are home to some of the best brunch downtown Toronto has to offer. From cozy, family-run cafés to high-end restaurants, the range of options is as diverse as the people who live here. As we move into 2024, brunch in Riverside and Leslieville is only growing in popularity, offering an ever-evolving mix of flavours, settings, and experiences.
If you're looking to enjoy a leisurely meal over the weekend with friends, celebrate a special occasion, or simply indulge in some gourmet food, you’ll find exactly what you're craving in these neighbourhoods. Whether it’s classic Canadian brunch fare, globally-inspired dishes, or plant-based creations, you can find it all here.
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Thursday - Saturday: 5:00pm - 11:00pm
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(416) 465-3707
729 Queen Street East, Toronto
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Why Choose Brunch in Riverside and Leslieville?
There are several reasons why brunch in Riverside and Leslieville is special. For one, both neighbourhoods embody Toronto’s unique blend of cultures and cuisines. The rich diversity of these areas means you can find restaurants that specialize in everything from classic brunch staples to exotic dishes that will satisfy adventurous palates.
The community vibe in Riverside and Leslieville is another reason to brunch here. Unlike the hustle and bustle of Toronto’s downtown core, these neighborhoods have a more laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed brunch. Whether you prefer a café with a cozy, rustic feel or a trendy spot with modern décor, the options are plentiful.
Furthermore, Riverside and Leslieville are home to some of the most talented chefs in the city. Many restaurants in these areas take pride in sourcing local, seasonal ingredients, creating menus that reflect both the time of year and the region’s agricultural bounty. So, when you brunch in Riverside and Leslieville, you’re not just enjoying a meal—you’re supporting local businesses and farmers.
Top Brunch Spots in Riverside and Leslieville
The options for brunch downtown Toronto in Riverside and Leslieville are endless. Here's a closer look at some of the standout restaurants:
● ēst Restaurant: Located on Queen Street East, ēst is a culinary gem offering a seasonal brunch menu that’s as innovative as it is delicious. With its focus on sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients, ēst is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to elevate their brunch experience.
What Makes Riverside and Leslieville Unique for Brunch?
The charm of Riverside and Leslieville lies in their eclectic mix of old and new. While Riverside boasts beautiful heritage buildings, Leslieville has undergone a transformation in recent years, becoming one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Toronto. Both areas retain a community feel while offering cutting-edge culinary experiences.
One of the unique aspects of brunch in these neighborhoods is the focus on local and sustainable ingredients. Many restaurants in Riverside and Leslieville prioritize fresh, seasonal produce, making every meal a celebration of local flavors. This commitment to sustainability is not only good for the environment but also ensures that the food is of the highest quality.
Moreover, the variety of brunch spots in these neighborhoods caters to every type of diner. Whether you're looking for a casual, budget-friendly café or an upscale dining experience, Riverside and Leslieville have something for you. The combination of innovative menus, warm atmospheres, and friendly service make brunch in these neighborhoods truly unique.
Spotlight on ēst Restaurant
No discussion about brunch in Riverside and Leslieville is complete without mentioning ēst Restaurant. Located on Queen Street East, ēst is known for its innovative approach to brunch, offering a menu that changes with the seasons. The restaurant prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring that every dish is fresh and packed with flavor.
What sets ēst apart is its commitment to sustainability. The restaurant’s focus on minimizing waste and supporting local farmers means that diners can enjoy their meals knowing they are making a positive impact on the environment. The menu at ēst features a mix of classic brunch dishes and creative, globally-inspired options, making it a great spot for both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike.
If you're looking for a brunch experience that’s both delicious and eco-conscious, ēst is the place to be.
Cozy Cafés for a Relaxing Brunch
For those who prefer a more laid-back brunch experience, Riverside and Leslieville are home to several cozy cafés that offer a welcoming atmosphere. These cafés are perfect for a leisurely brunch with friends or a quiet meal with a book in hand.
Bonjour Brioche is one of the most popular spots for a relaxed brunch in Riverside. This French bakery-café is known for its freshly baked pastries, quiches, and coffee. The warm, rustic décor and friendly service make it the perfect spot to unwind on a weekend morning.
Lazy Daisy’s Café is another great option for a cozy brunch. Located just outside Leslieville, this café offers farm-to-table comfort food in a relaxed, rustic setting. The menu features everything from homemade biscuits to hearty breakfast plates, all made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Family-Friendly Brunch Spots
If you're looking for a brunch spot that caters to families, Riverside and Leslieville have plenty of options. Lady Marmalade is a top choice for families thanks to its customizable menu and laid-back atmosphere. With options like pancakes, waffles, and breakfast bowls, there’s something for everyone on the menu.
White Lily Diner is another family-friendly option. This diner offers generous portions and a menu filled with comfort food favorites, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxed family brunch.
Riverside and Leslieville have embraced Toronto's growing trend of plant-based dining, making them perfect neighborhoods for vegan and vegetarian brunch lovers. At many spots, you don’t just find a token vegetarian dish; instead, they offer diverse menus with entire sections dedicated to plant-based options.
In addition to ēst Restaurant, known for its innovative and sustainable approach, another great vegan-friendly brunch variation is our focus on sustainability and ethical eating aligns perfectly with the community-driven, eco-conscious vibes of the neighbourhood.
Must-Try Brunch Menus in 2024
Choosing where to brunch in Riverside and Leslieville can feel overwhelming because the options are vast, and each offers a unique twist on the classic brunch. In 2024, these must-try menus stand out for their creativity, flavor, and local charm:
● ēst Restaurant: As mentioned earlier, this restaurant stands out for its seasonal, farm-to-table approach. Whether it's their take on the classic eggs benedict using farm-fresh eggs and local vegetables or a heartier dish with homemade sourdough bread, ēst's menu is a perfect balance of creativity and comfort. The chef’s dedication to sourcing local ingredients ensures that you’re getting the freshest flavors possible.
● The Broadview Hotel: With its beautiful rooftop and luxurious ambiance, The Broadview Hotel offers more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The brunch menu features elevated classics like smoked salmon bagels, decadent pancakes topped with fresh fruit and maple syrup, and locally sourced sausage with scrambled eggs. Paired with the rooftop’s panoramic view of the Toronto skyline, it’s a brunch that’s perfect for special occasions.
Brunch for Special Occasions
Brunch in Riverside and Leslieville isn’t just a casual weekend activity—it’s also perfect for celebrating life’s special moments. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, bridal shower, or just a long-overdue reunion with friends, the neighborhoods offer numerous spots that make any occasion extra special.
For a luxurious experience, The Broadview Hotel offers the ideal setting. With its historic architecture and rooftop views, the hotel exudes old-world charm while delivering modern dining experiences. Their brunch menu, complete with cocktails like mimosas and bellinis, ensures that your celebration feels just as special as the occasion itself.
If you’re planning a larger gathering, consider booking out a private space at ēst Restaurant. This restaurant is perfect for hosting intimate celebrations, with a menu that can be customized for your event. With its focus on local, seasonal ingredients, ēst allows you to create a memorable meal for your guests while supporting sustainable dining practices.
Another great venue for special brunches is Lady Marmalade, with its fun, vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or a friend’s milestone, Lady Marmalade’s customizable menu and lively environment make it a great spot for a cheerful, communal brunch.
Sustainable Brunch: Leading the Way
Sustainability is more than just a buzzword in Toronto’s dining scene—it's a movement. Riverside and Leslieville have embraced this trend, with many brunch spots taking steps to ensure they are eco-friendly. From sourcing local ingredients to minimizing waste, these restaurants are setting an example for the future of dining in Toronto.
ēst Restaurant is at the forefront of this movement. The restaurant is deeply committed to reducing its environmental footprint by sourcing ingredients from local farms, using sustainable cooking practices, and ensuring that minimal food waste is produced. This not only benefits the planet but also enhances the dining experience by ensuring that every ingredient is fresh, in season, and carefully selected.
Sustainability doesn’t end with food, either. Many brunch spots in Riverside and Leslieville have also adopted eco-friendly packaging, reduced plastic use, and opted for energy-efficient appliances in their kitchens. For example, Tori’s Bakeshop, known for its vegan pastries, uses 100% compostable packaging for all its to-go orders.
As the demand for sustainable dining grows, more restaurants in these neighborhoods are likely to adopt similar practices, making Riverside and Leslieville pioneers in Toronto’s sustainable food movement.
The Future of Brunch in Riverside and Leslieville
Brunch culture in Riverside and Leslieville continues to evolve. As more people become conscious of their food choices—whether due to dietary preferences, sustainability concerns, or simply a love for culinary innovation—the brunch scene in these neighborhoods is keeping up.
In 2024, expect to see more restaurants offering plant-based options, creative fusion dishes, and farm-to-table menus. The influence of global flavors will also continue to shape brunch menus, with new dishes inspired by cuisines from all over the world making their way into Toronto’s beloved brunch spots. With the rise of food-conscious dining and the push for more sustainability, restaurants are continually evolving to meet these demands.
Riverside and Leslieville, with their mix of old-school charm and forward-thinking culinary innovation, are likely to remain at the forefront of Toronto’s brunch scene for years to come. Whether you're looking for a traditional eggs benedict or something a little more adventurous, you’ll find it here.
How to Choose the Perfect Brunch Downtown Toronto
With so many options, choosing the right brunch spot in Riverside and Leslieville can be a delightful challenge. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect spot:
1. Consider Your Mood: Are you looking for something upscale and trendy, or do you want a laid-back, casual meal?
2. Dietary Preferences: If you have specific dietary needs, many restaurants in Riverside and Leslieville offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. ēst Restaurant.
3. Special Occasions: For a celebratory brunch, you can’t go wrong with The Broadview Hotel. The rooftop views and sophisticated menu make it a memorable choice for special events.
Top Tips for a Memorable Brunch Experience
Brunch is more than just about the food—it’s about the entire experience. To ensure you have a memorable brunch in Riverside and Leslieville, here are some tips:
● Try Something New: While it’s tempting to stick with your favorite dish, many restaurants in Riverside and Leslieville offer unique specials that change seasonally. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.
● Enjoy the Atmosphere: Part of the charm of brunch in these neighborhoods is the atmosphere. Whether it's a cozy café or a bustling diner, take the time to soak it in.
● Pair with Local Drinks: Many brunch spots, like The Broadview Hotel, offer delicious brunch cocktails. A mimosa, Caesar, or even a craft coffee can elevate your meal to the next level.
● Support Local: Many brunch spots in Riverside and Leslieville emphasize sustainability by sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and suppliers. Supporting these restaurants not only means enjoying high-quality, fresh meals but also contributing to the local economy. Whether it's farm-to-table meals at ēst Restaurant or organic offerings from Tori’s Bakeshop, every bite is a nod to the community around you.
● Make It an Event: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, many of these restaurants provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable brunch. Consider making a reservation or planning a gathering at places like The Broadview Hotel, where the chic ambiance and rooftop views elevate your brunch experience into something extraordinary.
Conclusion
Brunch in downtown Toronto’s Riverside and Leslieville neighbourhoods offers much more than just good food—it’s a social, cultural, and culinary experience. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or a lover of classic brunch fare, these neighbourhoods boast an impressive range of options to suit every taste. From the eco-conscious, seasonally driven menus at ēst Restaurant to the laid-back, comforting dishes we have here to offer you.
