The Donlands Diner — Restaurant in Toronto

When I first visited a year ago, my family and I loved it. Service was polite and welcoming. Food was delicious! We enjoyed our experience so much so that since then we have visited many times and taken any visitors for a meal any chance we get. On our last visit, might be out last for a long time.

We gladly took visitors to the diner. A new to us server was beyond rude. She treated me and my guests so disrespectfully from the moment we walked in the door. We arrived at about 1pm, I came in first with my children, as our guests parked their car - she abruptly offered us a table for 3 and I said we needed a table for 7, to which she yelled "at this time?!". I was immediately surprised and intimidated by her hostility, but dismissed it in the first instance in case of misunderstanding. She then yelled at us again, but this time asking if we needed high chairs, again I was taken back by this and before I could respond, she was then berating me for not responding, to which I said we wouldn't be needing any high chairs. My husband, then came in at that point and asked if I was OK, as I was visibly shaken by her conduct, I explained what had happened, as she was now setting up the table. As we sat down she handed us the menus and within a minute asked us if we were ready to order, my children being regulars immediately knew they wanted milkshakes so they ordered and she told us that if any of our guests were to order different flavours of milkshake then she wouldn't be happy with us - again flabbergasted at this statement because how would I know what they wanted and therefore why should we be threatened with this??

Our guests arrived whilst she was away and when she returned, she then asked the table for our order. Our guests had a child who ordered a different flavoured milkshake to which she loudly tutted and rolled her eyes. Immediately, also now, putting our guest's at unease. She continued her hostile conduct for a while, but at some point seemed to mellow out a little. I suspect for 2 reasons: my children and I are visible minorities but my husband and guests are all white, so this made her adjust her behaviour when all guests were there; there was also an opportunity to get a good tip due to our larger table and order, so she adjusted her behaviour to protect and get a better tip. This was extra insulting, upon realisation. The food that visit, just like her conduct, was not up to par that visit. She gave our guest the wrong milkshake flavour, but were all too anxious to tell her, in case she escalated her behaviour and we just wanted to preserve any modicum of peace and joy that remained, despite the circumstances.

As we were putting our coats on and getting ready to leave, one of the servers that we know had just started her shift and without knowing all that had occurred prior, immediately gave us a big smile and cheerful greeting and asked how we had been, which I think surprised her colleague, but made me feel better knowing that this entirely unacceptable behaviour was very much our server. It completely ruined our day because Donlands Diner was very much a safe space, for me, my family (and our guests) to find peace and joy under normally wonderful circumstances. I hope there is an opportunity to speak to this member of staff and ask her...

My wife and I were excited to see a neighbourhood hub like Donlands Diner. I can confirm it’s no frills diner with a couple cute decor twists.

Our first time visiting we brought my wife’s parents and our nephew. No complaints! The breakfasts were great and the service was good!

After a positive experience the first time my wife and I decided to go again this afternoon. Unfortunately it was not quite the same.

We both ordered the “recommended” chicken fingers they have on the menu. The deal includes fries and coleslaw. We also ordered a couple mimosas.

Mimosas were fine (albeit not strong) Chicken Fingers came with multiple hairs on them. I have long hair myself so wanted to confirm they weren’t mine however, they were blonde, dark brown and grey. Not my hair colour. I sheepishly raised my hand (I hate returning food) and let the waitress know about the issue. She gladly accepted the return and told me to eat off my wife’s plate while we wait for the correction. We also had to prompt for the coleslaw that was supposed to come with our meal and was missing.

Needless to say nothing was complimentary with the gross hair in the food plus missing item mix up and no one really said anything as we left. No apology etc. you’d think we’d get a small discount at the very least as I was not too hungry while combing through my food expecting to see more hair.

We really wanted to like this place but will figure out other options in the area as there are plenty.

That being said if you like kitschy diner style restaurants this place is for you and you probably will only be slightly...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at [chachus], and it exceeded all expectations. From the moment we stepped in, the warm ambiance and attentive staff made us feel welcome.

The menu boasted a delightful array of dishes, each expertly crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The presentation was impeccable, and every bite was bursting with flavor. Whether you're a fan of seafood, steak, or vegetarian fare, there's something to satisfy every palate.

The service was impeccable; our server was knowledgeable, friendly, and went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. The attention to detail did not go unnoticed, from the timely refills of water to the personalized recommendations.

The atmosphere was perfect for any occasion, whether it's a romantic dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends and family. The cozy yet sophisticated decor added to the overall charm of the place.

To top it all off, the dessert selection was heavenly. Indulging in their decadent desserts was the perfect way to end our meal on a sweet note.

Overall, [chachus] offers not just a meal, but an unforgettable culinary journey. I can't wait to return and explore more of their delectable offerings. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable...