Joy Bistro, located just a few doors down from Lady Marmalade, serves up not only lunch and dinner, but also slings breakfast and brunch on the weekends to a mostly local neighborhood crowd.
The Nitty Gritty
Joy Bistro is located just beside Jimmie Simpson at the western edge of Leslieville. Focusing primarily on lunch and dinner, as well as late-night snacks/drinks, this neighborhood restaurant opens early on weekends (at 8am) to sling breakfast for the early risers. The crowd tends to be primarily locals, and the few times I’ve visited, there has never been a line. As with Lady Marmalade, street parking is available, but as it’s located right on Queen Street East and is a stone’s throw from 2 TTC stops (Logan or Empire Avenue).
The Food
This restaurant focuses primarily on standard North American fare, from French toast to omelets to ‘eggs your way,’ served with standard sides like bacon/sausage/Canadian back, home fries, and toast. They also offer the standard eggs benedict plus a few alternatives, such as the Eggs Willow Grove (with pulled pork). The food has a very casual, homey, sincere feel.
The Space
The first floor, where most of the brunchers are seated, is the bar area, consisting solely of high-top tables and stools. Upstairs is the more ‘standard’ dining room, and there is also a large patio area that is open in the summer. Given the range of options and large space (particularly upstairs), this is a good option for large groups of diners or families.
Joy Bistro
884 Queen Street East
416-465-8855
www.joybistrobar.com
Queen Street East, between Broadview & Jones
