I’ve lived within walking distance from By the Way Café for a decade, but have never tried the restaurant. This Mediterranean-influenced eatery serves a delicious brunch on the weekends, offering items that might not be seen in many other restaurants in the city. The restaurant is not large, though with a patio, the number of tables nearly double when the the weather is nice. The patio is covered, so it has some weather protection, allowing the restaurant to operate a larger space more days during patio season.
The Mediterranean
At my first visit, which I went with my husband, I ordered what they call the Mediterranean – a scrambled egg dish with eggplant, olives and tomatoes, served with lots of feta and an Israeli salad (chopped cucumber and tomatoes). You can also add pita with the dish. My husband had shakshuka, the delicious egg and pureed tomato dish. It’s a favourite of his, ever since he first tried it at Aroma Espresso bar. It’s on my brunch faves list, as well and I’m very glad to see the increasing number of restaurants offering it. I guess middle eastern/Israeli cuisine is the new taco/burrito.
Shakshuska (eggs are sadly hidden…it should be front and centre!)
Personally, I liked the portion sizes, since they aren’t gigantic like many brunch-focused restaurants (By the Way Café also has a small dinner menu, consisting of four or five items). Perhaps it’s the Mediterranean influence. My eggs were very well-seasoned, but I would have liked to see a bit more salad and a little less feta (I love feta, but they gave me a little too much). My husband’s shakshuska was good as well – tastewise. However, the presentation could have been a bit better. One should be able to see the sunny side up eggs in a shakshuska. It shouldn’t be covered with sauce. Despite the not-so-pretty presentation of the shakshuska, it is definitely something to order if you are having brunch at the restaurant. More “standard” items such as eggs Benedict, omelettes and French toast are also available.
Brunch at By the Way Café is served every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 until 3 PM. They do not take reservations during brunch. The restaurant is located at 400 Bloor Street West, just a short walk westwards from Spadina subway station.
