Best Comfort Food Restaurants in Yonge and Lawrence

Today was wintery and cold with a blowing wind. A day to be inside. A day for lunch at the Amsterdam. As always, the staff at the front door were welcoming and efficient, directing us to a table for two beside the fireplace. Bonus! Samantha (Sam) was our server today. She was friendly and chatty and seemed pleased to see us. We ordered “our usual”, as regulars to the Amsterdam (perhaps we are boring) and without much delay we were enjoying our fish and chips (for her) and the Tai chicken curry (for me), washed down with Diet Coke and an Amsterdam Blonde. The food was hot and nicely presented, particularly the curry, resting on a palm leaf in a custom earthenware (?) dark bowl. The beer, even on a cold day, was great. Although there are giant screen TVs in one section of the dining area showing (today) live tennis, the sounds and images were not intrusive. Ditto the musical ambiance. Although I would prefer NO music in a restaurant, the Amsterdam’s choice was reasonable acceptable and allowed for an audible conversation (I often wonder if the “music” in restaurants, or the grocery store, is targeting the customers or the staff). No desert today. Stuffed. But there was a little room for a cappuccino before paying the bill. Goodbyes from Sam who provided great service and who maintained a pleasant chatty presence throughout today’s encounter. We will be back. Jack H Toronto

Hemmingways is a great choice if you’re looking for an excellent casual dining experience that’s not hard on the pocketbook. The food, service and ambience are excellent. But, depending on the weather, being seated at the upper level can feel a bit chilly. Heaters did help, but not always enough.

Classic old style elegance. A pleasure to be surrounded by and cradled with the ambiance. Food was of the highest order. A wonderful evening out.

Very friendly staff . Food was delicious and the portion was very generous for the appi. The portion for the jambalaya was pretty small. But overall experienced was very good. Definitely will come back !

Mel was so great ! Thanks for your wonderful service !