The Little Jerry — Restaurant in Toronto

Came here on Friday at 6:30pm with a reservation for two, and had the choice of sitting indoors, or one of their patios - we chose the back patio which stayed empty until the end of our meal when another group were seated (it was busier inside the restaurant).

We ordered the $50/pp tasting menu - you can ask the server to curate this for you, or just pick what you want yourself. It already included the pickle plate and either the duck breast or mushrooms (but not both) and we were able to select three more dishes. We went with the hamachi crudo, sirloin tartare, and delicata squash. It also came with dessert - the saikyo miso cheese flan.

Flavour-wise, everything was great. Especially enjoyed the hamachi crudo, delicata squash and duck breast (even though it was cold when it arrived). Pickle plate was refreshing, albeit less memorable. Portions are based on how many people are in your group. We both felt that portions were on the smaller side. We each ordered a drink as well, I was full but my friend could've eaten more. Not sure how big the a la carte portions are, but in retrospect I would've preferred ordering that over the tasting menu. But of course this depends on your group size and how many dishes you want to try.

Service was friendly and attentive. Even though it was just the two of us sitting out back by ourselves*, they would often check on us. Very comprehensive drink list, which they are happy to give recommendations on based on what you enjoy. Overall, cozy and relaxed spot for dinner and drinks with great music as well. Reservations recommended if you're coming for dinner, walk-ins only after 10pm.

*except when a family of raccoons passed by and watched us curiously from the roof...

Discovered this place by accident when my girlfriend and I were trying to get a table somewhere else for our anniversary, but were directed to check this place out.

Since last month, I've been here 4 times and I keep coming back with friends.

I've never been a huge wine/beer/cider connoisseur, but this place has introduced me to a lot of new and unique drinks, both locally and internationally, that I don't think I would have found at a typical bar in Toronto. Their prices are far more affordable and reasonable than other local bars. Their food menu is also very intriguing, although I've never tried anything outside of their seasonal Pickled Plate, which is really good. I've been told my friends that their Potato Salad is delicious as well! Love their vintage dishes.

To add to the experience, The Little Jerry offers really great service, a beautiful ambiance both indoors and outdoors, a true audiophile analog sound system, vinyl only eclectic DJs.

The servers are really easy going, not pushy and very helpful in describing and explaining their menu items. The first time we came for our anniversary we were offered picklebacks on the house, which was a really nice gesture by the server. The owner, I believe her name is Jodie, is always very polite and accomodating and it was extremely humbling to see her supporting the FOH staff in serving/waiting tables.

Looking forward to...

Anybody who works in the food and beverage industry or spins records in this city will tell you that the Little Jerry (aka the Jerry, Petit Gerard) is not only an incredible bar, but it is a gem to this city. The vibe at the Jerry is quite unique, and many folks who have the fortune to encounter this bar will inevitably become regulars. They have nightly DJs, evocative food programs, and as someone who has easily visited this place a hundred times over the years, I cannot say I have ever had a bad experience with the beverage list they have curated. Between their varieties of wines, fun and interesting ciders, and their diverse beer list, it's always a treasure picking something new and stimulating at this bar. All of these positive aspects are incredible, however they pale in comparison to the kind of service you will receive here. The staff are super down to earth individuals who do not put on a customer service face, rather treat you with warmth and welcome you to have a good time. I have celebrated some of the best times of my life with my wife here over the last three years, and will probably continue to do so as long as they'll have me. If you are ever in the room when they get the disco ball going, be glad because the vibe gods have smiled upon you. Long live the...