Madame Marie’s Weekly Roundup: Toronto’s Best Dining During COVID-19 – July 16, 2020
With patios officially open, and indoor dining to follow when Toronto officially enters Phase 3, there’s a lot to look forward to. Socializing in any form might still feel strange, but restaurants are ready to serve us in the safest way possible.
Here are some of my recent picks.
Maple Leaf Tavern
955 Gerrard Street East
(416) 465-0955
mapleleaftavern.ca
At this reincarnated east-end tavern, you’ll find a little less seating than usual as well as a pared down menu, but there are still plenty of patio tables and a prime view of the original bar’s Maple Leaf Tavern sign. To minimize contact, you’ll have to walk up to side window to place your order. You might be up more than once to order refreshing craft cocktails, such as the Stealth Margarita and the MLT Old Fashioned Cocktail. What goes better with a cocktail than some classy pub fare? Try the creamy Caesar salad, mouthwatering burger and succulent flat iron steak with tarragon butter. Make a reservation online – they’re going fast.
Now that’s a good looking meal! 
Time for a cocktail!
Bang Bang Ice Cream and Bakery
93A Ossington Avenue
(647) 348-1900
bangbangicecream.com
When you have an ice cream craving, Bang Bang is there for you. Don’t let the uber long lineup deter you from ordering a few of their 30+ daily flavours – either sandwiched between irresistible cookies – or enjoyed solo (vegan and regular options available). Burnt toffee ice cream on an everything cookie (chock full of chocolate, pretzel chunks, peanut butter, and oatmeal) is a foolproof combination. Your sugar high will thank you.
Vegan mint chocolate ice cream. 
Burnt Toffee ice cream with everything cookies.
Fat Pasha
414 Dupont Street
(647) 350-4261
fatpasha.com
This middle eastern mainstay on Dupont Street is the perfect spot to fuel up on flavourful dishes after a walk through the Annex. With the patio in full swing, Anthony Rose and his team are ready to delight your senses with small plates, including green falafel and classic hummus and pita. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m. Reservations recommended.
Bon appétit!
Bisous,
Mme. M. xoxo
Does your restaurant want to be featured in Madame Marie’s Weekly Roundup? 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.