The Harbord House — Restaurant in Toronto

I've been to Harbord House a number of times in the past and have had positive experiences (and prior to today's experience would give it a 4 stars). However the brunch service today was unacceptable and honestly deserves less than 1 star. The server was frantic from the start, and only got worse as the service went on, sometimes breaking into an all out run across the room (while only serving ~8 tables over the 2 hour period we were there). We waited for more than an hour after ordering for our food, which we later found out was because of a staff shortage in the kitchen, but not once in this hour+ period did the server let us know that there would be a delay. When the food finally did arrive, my poached eggs were closer to hard boiled eggs, and my friend's sandwich had a hair in it - we didn't complain at the time because it was nearly impossible to track down the server (who never came to check how our food was) and because after waiting an hour we were all famished and just needed to eat something. When I finally spoke to the server when getting the bill, he apologized about the kitchen, but took no responsibility about his own mistakes. I was hoping that at least the coffee would be comped for making us wait so long, but that was not the case. I am sad that a place I used to hold in high regards has dropped so low, and I will be unlikely to return...

We went here for family dinner expecting something different. I have to say though there's nothing really interesting about this place the place presents itself as a sort of Family Lodge but it's really is just a bar. The food was passable but that there is nothing really interesting about it or nothing really to draw it or make it enjoyable. The servers were older and slightly grumpy much less curt. I could easily see that if you are 40-50 and that they know you on a personal basis that this place could be quite enjoyable. I honestly wasn't sure if this place was a restaurant or Pub because all the TVs were blaring with the latest game and is quite dark. The shouts were decent and the steak pot pie was decent as well but again nothing really to write home about but if you want something comforting they have a whole bunch of...

Spontaneous Visit — Worth It!

This was a very last-minute and spontaneous decision to come here, and I have to say — it turned out to be a great choice! The service was good, the food came out in a reasonable time, and overall, it was a positive experience.

I ordered the fish and chips, which was super filling. The fish was the highlight — nicely cooked and flavorful. We also shared some calamari. It was tasty, though slightly overcooked for my liking. As for the chips, I didn’t love the seasoning, but it didn’t bother me too much since I was more focused on the fish anyway.

I’d give my meal a solid 4 out of 5. Definitely recommend trying it out!

My friend had the fried chicken sandwich with fries and absolutely loved it — she gave her meal a 5 out of 5.

So yeah, overall a good spot. Go check it out and show them...