Madame Marie’s Weekly Roundup: Toronto’s Best Takeout and Delivery During COVID-19 – May 21, 2020

Bonjour Toronto!

After over eight weeks in lockdown, the city is starting to slowly (and cautiously) reopen – and it’s coinciding perfectly with warmer temperatures.

Although social distancing rules are still in effect across the city, we can still enjoy takeout, delivery and some entirely new dining concepts.

Here are my picks this week.

El Mercado
884 Queen Street East
No phone
instagram.com/elmercadoto/

El Mercado is the city’s hot new weekend takeaway food market – with everything from deep fried candy bars to fish head tacos to chips and guac. It’s also licensed to sell alcohol. Grab a bag when you enter, fill it up with items from each food stall, and pay when you exit. Situated in the heart of Leslieville, El Mercado is a collaboration between Barrio and an unnamed carnival food vendor. In addition to the tempting food offerings, they’ve done their due diligence when it comes to safety. Masks are mandatory upon entrance, sanitation stations are on-site, and a maximum of five people are allowed in the area at once. If you’re looking to reemerge from your house this weekend and try some innovative treats (pickle soft serve, anyone?), El Mercado is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. starting May 23.

Starving Artist
810 College Street (and several other locations)
(647) 348-1133
starvingartist.ca

Brunch lovers, unite! With over seven locations across the GTA, Starving Artist has you covered for a satisfying brunch fix at home. From sweet to savoury, almost every dish contains some type of waffle. And, if you have a gluten sensitivity, Starving Artist offers both gluten-free and potato varieties in addition to their classic waffle recipe. The Waffle Benny is one of their most popular dishes. It features two mini waffles topped with poached eggs, caramelized bacon and creamy hollandaise sauce. If you’re craving something on the sweeter side, try the peanut butter and banana waffle. Don’t forget one of their espresso-based drinks to wash it all down!

Boat King of Thai Noodles
770 Bay Street, Unit 105
(416) 591-8838
boatkingofthainoodles.com

Have you heard of Thai boat noodles or ‘kuaytiaw reua’? This flavourful Thai street food was first made on the Bangkok canals in the mid-1900s. If you love pho, this comforting noodle soup is very similar. Boat of King Thai Noodles is the first place in Toronto to offer it! Chef Toa simmers the broth for over 24 hours to develop a rich flavour profile. The piping hot broth is then poured over rice noodles, bean sprouts, and pork. Other classic items, such as Khao Soi, curries, and Pad Thai, are on the menu as well. The best part is, all main dishes are priced at only $14. Available for pick-up and delivery.

Stay safe, everyone.

Bisous,

Mme. M. xoxo

Does your restaurant want to be featured in Madame Marie’s Weekly Roundup: Toronto’s Best Takeout and Delivery? Are you a diner who wants to share your delicious experience with the city? Contact me.

Operations are subject to change during this crisis so please contact each restaurant for the most up-to-date information.