My partner and I love the Kensington market area. When we go, we usually go to the same establishments. On our last visit to the area we decided to try out some new bar/restaurants in the area for a change. We are so glad we tried out the T.O. Dickens Restaurant. What a lovely place to enjoy some food and drink. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by Donna, the manager, love her! There is a small patio at the front of the restaurant we considered, but Donna suggested we have a look at the patio located at the back of the restaurant before we made our decision. So glad we did. It's so pretty back there. Although fairly small in size it is beautifully decorated. The color scheme and decorative table and chair sets, along with the painted brick wall, just add to the visual enjoyment. Not to mention the beauty of the trees surrounding the area. The restaurant inside is very cozy if it's not a good occasion to be outdoors. Unfortunately, if you have mobility challenges though, this is not the place for you. As there are stairs. Of course you could sit at the front patio, but the washrooms would not be accessible. We were going to just have a couple drinks but because the sun was shining it made it extra beautiful sitting out there so we decided to stay for a bite to eat as well. We had the Bruschetta to start which was a different take on what we are used to but that was ok, it was still very tasty. We also had the Montreal smoked meat along with the Monte Cristo sandwiches. They were good, there sandwiches after all so not too hard to screw them up, lol. But the salads on the side could have been a little bigger. Still, they were tasty. One suggestion i have when serving the food is to not provide plates prior to bringing out the food orders. You dont need a plate and then another plate with the food on it. Too many plates! The addition of the water provided with some citris pieces in it was also a nice touch. Their menu looks great! A nice variety of options to choose from. I think most people would find something they would like. There were certainly many options i would have or look forward to trying out on our next visit. Pricing is pretty much the same as other places we have been to in the area. We definitely recommend this lovely establishment for your dinning/drinking needs. I might add as much as I, when going out, want to be in an establishment that has a nice environment and good food, I find it equally important that the individuals who are providing the services be capable of making my stay enjoyable. Donna, exceeded my expectations, she is a very valuable addition to this establishment in my opinion. She was very tentative to our needs but also took the time out to chat with us. What a wonderful human being! She is what made our visit the truly wonderful one it turned out to be. I think I might adopt her, lol. We love you Donna! The other staff we had the pleasure of interacting with during our stay were also friendly and did their jobs well. Thanks to the owner for hiring the right individuals and providing such a lovely place to enjoy while visiting the Kensington Market. We look forward to our...
Read moreVibes wise, if those sad millenial grey wood floors were a restaurant, it would be this. It's really strange to find this restaurant in Kensington. The service was excellent and the food and prices were ok, the but the whole experience was weirdly commercial and devoid of the quirks and personality that make Kensington special. This feels like a tourist restaurant you'd see downtown in a big city near the main stadium, or something. The menu is expansive, specializing in nothing, the dishes have cookie cutter food service ingredients (like that ubiquitous balsamic dressing) and are plated like "upscale mall dining" (Moxie's, etc). The cappuccino was only $3.50 -- a great price -- but I wouldn't be surprised if it came from one of those Nespresso type machines you find in offices. We got the distinct pleasure of sitting in front of the speakers and listening to Justin Bieber and Katy Perry top 40 hits at a volume too loud to allow for comfortable talking. The front patio is also all bar stool height seating and we got to watch an older couple beside us struggle to get into their chairs, with no alternate seating offered. But on the bright side, service was good and fast. The restaurant is super new. Maybe they just need some time to adjust to the...
Read moreI have been hoping to find a place that has good Caesar salad and I am glad I spotted T.O Dickens. I ordered the Traditional Caesar Clutter with chicken, Apple Crumble Pie (slice) and a Sprite (pop). It's an odd combo but they are add on to a meal. The salad is eighteen dollars so pricey but, honestly I couldn't stop eating it. I am not a big salad person so every now and then I just want it and I was glad that it tasted so good! I was so annoyed when my mother wanted some, lol as I really felt I had it under control. I would recommend others to try it as well. I plan to make another order to confirm it's still good. The Apple Crumble slice was good and a great size. I have not had an Apple Crumble before so I did not expect to enjoy it. I had some vanilla ice Cream at home so with my Ice Cream it was a treat. I heated it up in the oven and some parts got crispy which to me enhances the flavor and texture which was all well for me. I have not had a meal here but if the Caesar Clutter is great then the food should be in the same ball park I hope. I will definitely...
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