What's the vibe?
It was only a matter of time before The Drake realised that their brunch that has created a cult following would also attract a crowd at their York Street offshoot. In fact, we're surprised this didn't happen earlier. Regardless, it has arrived and with a bang. Currently only open for lunch and dinner in addition to being a popular haunt for after-work drinks, the restaurant will be serving up classic brunch grub as of April 2nd. Albeit, the Financial District can be a bit of a wasteland on the weekend, but with Chef Ted Corrado and Chef de Cuisine Jon Pong at the helm, it will be worth the venture. Plus, picture Mimosa's on the patio before hitting up a Jays game. We're sold.
What to drink?
Well for starters it's brunch so you can't go wrong with a Mimosa or the famous Drake Caesar (yes it will be on offer here). These traditional AM drinks top up their already impressive cocktail list that will be made fully available for brunch. A recent collab with Perrier will see a selection of curated concoctions also added to the menu including the Revissant Jardin, a refreshing cocktail made with Beefeater Gin, pine, strawberries, cream, egg white and Perrier. It's bright pink and tastes like the beautiful liquid version of a Campino strawberries and cream candy.
What to eat?
The menu will offer classics that the Hotel brunch is known for but expect a 'One Fifty' twist to them courtesy of Corrado and Pong. The popular blueberry scones with sweet cream and jam will be a permanent fixture on the menu, along with the Drake Breakfast (their version of a Full English with One Fifty subbing in cornbread instead of hash) and Salmon Benny (vs the Hotel's traditional Ham Benny). The French toast - code for dessert for breakfast - will arrive at the table piping hot baked right into a skillet and so sweet on its own that you almost don't need to touch the maple syrup boat served alongside it. But alas you will, because come on, we're Canadian.
Brunch launches April 2nd and will be served on weekends only.
Brunch and drinks for two: about $70
150 York Street; 416-363-6150; drakeonefifty.ca
