Review of By The Way Café on Bloor St. W.

Annabelle Goodman –

Is it really possible that it was freezing amidst a snow storm just one week ago? How quickly things change. This Sunday was a warm sunny summerlike day. The whole world came out to play. It was wonderful to see children, parents, friends all strolling on the street. The cafes were all filled. After my early morning yoga class I wanted to be outside. I have dined at By the Way since it first opened many years ago. I have been for lunch and dinner and always enjoy the excellent choice of tasty superb food. Since the restaurant was renovated I enjoy it even more. On this occasion the large patio was open. It has an awning over the total space. I managed to get a table by the street side and was wallowing in the warm sunshine.

The Brunch Super Special featured Steak n Eggs. Two eggs any style is served with a flat iron steak cooked to your liking. Home fries and a bagel are included. I couldn’t believe the portion size. This is value as well as delicious food. I opted for the Old Fave ( and my favorite) Huevos Rancheros with a salsa verde (Perky green tomato sauce) Two sunny side up eggs were served on a tortilla with beans and topped with a zesty salsa. Salsa Rojo (Red tomato sauce) is also available. Tasty home fried potatoes were scrumptious. I like the skin on the potatoes. Filling! Delicious!

Omelettes are a specialty of By The Way. Many other choices are listed in the regular menu. Chorizo, Tomato and Smoked Cheddar was one choice for the daily special. I did consider the Portobello, Black Olives and Feta. The omelettes come with fries and a bagel. Merguez Lamb Sausage, Mushroom and Cheddar was the third daily special option. Did I mention the prices are very economical?

Red Lentil Soup and Chicken Matzah Ball Soup were the daily specials. Other choices are available on the regular menu. I have always found the soups to be flavorful and served hot. That is important to me. The daily Sandwich Special was Tuna Salad with walnuts, apple, celery and onion on multigrain with arugula and tomato. It is served with house-cut fries. I love scones and thought about purchasing the Vegan Blueberry Scone to have later at home for an afternoon break.
If you are really in a festive mood you may wish to start with a Mimosa or Hot Apple Cider. Unfortunately I noticed this on the menu after already ordering my Macchiato. It was fantastic. I meant to ask what coffee they used. It was served hot and had a rich deep flavor just the way I like it.

The patio was bustling. I always enjoy watching the platters being delivered to the tables. This is a neighborhood restaurant. Annex folk frequent this restaurant all year. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available. In all my years of dining at By The Way I have enjoyed each and every meal. On this occasion I had fun sitting by the sidewalk watching all the strollers. Big Don is a warm charming server. He can’t do enough to please. He was so rushed but seemed to have time for each person.
My lunch favorite is the Salad Nicoise with slices of fresh grilled tuna. In the evening I like to have the Grilled Salmon. One evening I ordered the Beet Cakes, created by Amir’s daughter. Oh my. That was delicious. Guaranteed there is variety to please any palate. It is a vegetarian friendly restaurant. The food is lovingly prepared and warmly served. Amir can be proud of his establishment.