Wish

Annabelle Goodman —

I was meeting a friend for lunch in the Bloor Yonge area. Where to go? I suddenly remembered having lunch and a dinner at this charming little spot. Note the rubber boots filled with colorful plants all along the outer wall. What a creative touch! It is easy to miss Wish because it is on a side street. The awning will call out to you. It is such a unique patio .The comfy white couches and white chairs give it a mystical look. All the tables were taken on this darling patio so we went indoors. No problem. All the front windows were open so we had an outside breeze and a full view of the street. Whimsical but so comfy. Our darling server Aisling kept us enchanted. She hails from Ireland (obvious when she chats with you) She certainly added to our positive experience.

3 Charles St – 416 915 0240

We both commented on the appealing menu. There was so much calling out to us. We both ended up ordering the very refreshing Poached Salmon Nicoise Salad with fingerling potatoes, radishes, tomatoes, olives & coddled egg with a red wine vinaigrette. ($18.00)  It was a large portion and so delicious. The salmon was moist and flavorful. We also loved the house made hummus that was served with the bread.

House Made Gnocchi is prepared with basil pesto, butternut squash puree, cherry tomatoes and toasted squash seeds. ($18.00) Lamb Kifteh with Israeli cous cous is flavored with citrus cumin herb vinaigrette and a yogurt sauce. ($18.00) If you choose lighter fare the Arugula Salad with beet crisps, goat cheese and lemon dressing would be great. ($12.00) A Warm Lentil Salad is served with mushrooms, root vegetables, radicchio, hazelnuts and shallots in a honey vinaigrette. ($13.00) Blue Crab Cake with tomatillo salsa and aioli is great as an appetizer or a light lunch. ($15.00)

There is a different type of hamburger to please anyone. The Black Bean Burger is served with lettuce, tomato, sweet pepper relish and avocado. ($15.00) I noticed several rather large burgers going to various tables. Great choices! There is Angus Beef, Turkey, Salmon and Lamb Burgers available. ($15.00) All sandwiches and burgers are accompanied with fries or salad.

The Battered Fish and Chips with a creamy avocado cabbage slaw and tartar looked to be sufficient for 2 people. Did it ever look enticing! ($16.00)

We had a most wonderful afternoon. The servers were all so friendly and charming. The breezes from outside kept us comfortable. Great food greatly enjoyed.

I was delighted to find out that the owners also are part of Smith a great restaurant at 553 Church St. I have eaten there before and have enjoyed both a dinner and brunch. I have plans to visit 7 West, another restaurant by the same owners. It is located at 7 Charles St West.  Obviously the proprietors know what the clientele wants; good options of fine food well prepared. The friendly ambiance also makes the dining a total experience.