74. Maha's Egyptian Brunch: Egypt

 Maha's Egyptian Brunch
226 Greenwood Ave,
(just north of Gerrard)
416 462 2703

We were forewarned and so prepared to wait in line at this popular brunch spot. The serving staff are definitely geared up for fast turn over and made us feel welcomed. Coffee arrived quickly to warm us up. Seating is packed in and the noise volume understandably a bit high.
We order the Date Grilled Cheese with a side of Lentil Soup, $12; Cairo Classic - fava beans, tomatoes and onions topped with a sliced boiled egg, a falafel, tomato feta, charred balady bread and salata balady, (pictured here) $12; Date Scramble $12 and a side of mixed pickles $4. Everything tasted fresh, homemade and authentic. Total for three brunches including tax and tip $79.03.

Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (4)
Food Presentation (4)
Food Quality (4)
Value for Money (3)

73. North Poké: Hawaiian

North Poké
179 Baldwin St
(in Kenssington Market)
M5T 1L9
416 599 7653

On a grey January Saturday we head to North Poké for a taste of the Hawaiian food trend that's taking Toronto by storm. The tiny shop has limited seating on tall stools by the windows and a couple of benches where you can wait for take out. We order the Shack Special (Salmon, gochuchang dressing, kimchi crema, radish, fried shallot, scallion and microgreens) regular size with 4 oz of fish, $9.95; large with 6 oz of fish $13.95 and The Big Wave (Albacore tuna, charred jalepeno citrus dressing, black garlic, mayo, pickled shallots, tenkasu & rice large) with 6 oz of fish $14.95. Everything tastes fresh, clean and is surprisingly filling. Three lunches including bottled drinks, tax and tip $56.81.

 Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (4)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (3)