I took the streetcar down Dundas Street West keeping my eye out among the storefronts in Little Portugal for Saving Grace. On a weekend, you can’t miss it because there’s a lineup out the door.
It’s tiny, seating maybe 25 and that’s including bar stools at a counter. Here’s the most important thing: there’s a clipboard hanging inside, next to the front door, where you add your name and how many in your group. Otherwise, you’re just standing outside for no reason.
While I was waiting, Chris Murphy the lead singer from Sloan walked by. Sauntered really. A Sunday saunter. Ben said he lives in the neighbourhood. This has nothing to do with my brunch experience. I just wanted to say I saw him and I like Sloan, especially this song.
After about 20 minutes, Ben and I snagged a little table and read the day’s choices off the big blackboard menu. I forgot to take notes so I’m going by my month-long memory.
I got poached eggs in a vegetable ratatouille which came under a liberal mound of goat cheese with crusty baguette, potatoes and a side of sausage (my addition) which I really didn’t need.
Ben got eggs with white beans, chorizo and fennel. I think people come to Saving Grace for a change from the ho-hum bacon and eggs, so in that vein it definitely fits the bill. Most plates are between $7 and $10.
Because Ben and I are gluttons, we ordered the waffles with blackberries and lemon ricotta cream for brunch dessert. That was the most memorable dish for me. Fresh and delicious. And big.
Saving Grace makes me feel like I live around the corner and just dragged myself by for a cup of coffee and some filling breakfast. Perhaps passing the arts section of the weekend Globe over to my neighbour from Sloan. You know, just hanging out.
Saving Grace, 907 Dundas St. West, Toronto, (416) 703-7368. Closed Wednesdays.
Open Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-3 p.m., weekends 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
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