Indian Street Food Co. — Restaurant in Toronto

TLDR: For non-Indians: there are other more authentic Indian restaurants IN and around Toronto with better food and far better hospitality.

For Indians: there’s a reason why this place isn’t frequented by Indians. See above.

Details: I am not one to write reviews but felt compelled to write this one. I was excited to visit since it was listed under the Bib Gourmand category in Michelin Guide’s inaugural list. We had a reservation and arrived on time. Our server was Yatin, also the manager IIRC, and let’s just say Yatin could use a few lessons in hospitality and basic politeness. He was throwing attitude around for no reason. We had very politely asked a simple question to which he gave a rather sarcastic and rude reply – completely unprofessional and uncalled for. There are a couple of good dishes but it is nowhere close to being the flagbearer of Indian food. The Papad platter boasts a combination of 5-7 papadums made from different flours/ingredients – except that’s a lie – it’s all one kind of papadum and that too the most basic one you get at any Indian restaurant. The biryani comes with undercooked peas. The serving staff was uncoordinated – would not clear plates completely or not in time for other food, would let hot food sit there to get cold, and you are forced to order all courses at once – which was a first for us – never heard of this at ANY other restaurant (again for no reason – because it was nowhere near closing time). The quality of food was above average but definitely not the best there is in Toronto. Yatin seems to throw attitude around as if this is a three Michelin Star restaurant – sad that he fails to back that up with the quality of food and hospitality provided. If you choose to dine at this restaurant, go sooner rather than later – with this attitude, this place is going to fall as quickly as it rose. If you want authentic Indian food for better prices and way way way better service – go elsewhere.

EDIT: Response to owner's reply: I did mention papad, biryani, food being left to get cold, and overall service about staff being uncoordinated (not just Yatin's behaviour). Pretty sure you haven't actually bothered reading the full review which just goes to show what you value as a company. Also, last I checked, the kind of staff hired (especially the manager) and the way they behave is a reflection of your restaurant. So I guess screw us for complaining about people YOU chose to hire. Cherry on top - I recall there being a review about your staff being racists towards Indians which is either now removed or lost somewhere in the other reviews. Gee - I wonder how two parties from the same background complained of being treated poorly. Lack of respect, accountability, and accusations of racism - applause! You have outdone yourself!! But of course you don't care because the food, staff, and service reflects everything and everyone else except the owner. :/ Free advice: next time someone reviews your restaurant and points out problematic behaviour - try to fix the problem instead of...

DO NOT GO HERE!! AVOID AT ALL COSTS!! The ambiance at Indian Street Food and Company was disappointing. The restaurant was incredibly loud, despite the absence of any music. The limited space was overcrowded, making it difficult to have a conversation. Upon entering the establishment, I found it to be alright, although a bit crowded. It seemed manageable at first. Unfortunately, the service at Indian Street Food and Company was terrible. I encountered an issue with the food, as I discovered a hair in one of the dishes. When I brought it to the attention of the server, their response was highly unprofessional. They implied that I had placed the hair in the food myself, despite the obvious mismatch in hair color. Neither the staff nor the owner offered any apologies for the inedible food. I ordered several dishes, including the goat vindaloo, chana masala, pav bhaji (which had a hair in it), cod curry, chicken 65 (with overcooked and tough chicken), peas rice (containing small stones), and naan. The presentation of the dishes was unremarkable, and the taste was overshadowed by the presence of inedible substances. Unfortunately, the only standout aspect of the food at Indian Street Food and Company was the abundance of inedible substances found in the dishes. The overall value for the price paid was extremely poor. The experience was far from satisfactory, and the quality of the food did not justify the cost. I would not recommend Indian Street Food and Company to others. It would be wiser to explore other restaurants with similar ratings but better quality and service. Instead, I suggest supporting local Indian businesses like Karaikudi Chettinad Indian Restaurant, where you are likely to find superior food and a more respectful environment.

PS: I was about to take the picture of the hair when the server hurriedly took the plate away. So unfortunately...

Our very first visit to Indian Street Food Co. this past weekend has left us completely mesmerized! Never been to an Indian restaurant before with such unique and real ambience, menu & food anywhere in North America, and Yes we have traveled quite extensively! Although the restaurant was quite busy & packed, it was amazing to see the promptness and co-ordination of the entire staff working together to ensure that each order was fulfilled effectively and efficiently! Service Par Excellence must say… For starters, we had Baigan Fries, Lasooni Cauliflower & Pau bhaji Fondue & each one of these had hallmarks of a great chef. We aren’t big on drinks but must mention that the mojitos that we had were truly fantastic and have left a taste that’ll be cherished for a very long time. We progressed on to our main course with Kerala Chilli Beef and spicy pork chops both served on parathas and this is where the Oomph factor really kicked in. From the unique presentation and overall aura to the taste of these dishes everything about them was captivating and will keep us coming back to ISF. We finished off the evening with Rabdi kulfis which once again were awesome! Overall a truly memorable experience and I’d recommend everyone with discerning taste to go and try Indian Street Food & give your taste buds a new flavour….Trust; just like us you’ll get...