Replacing a former chain restaurant, 120 Diner offers
classic favourites at reasonable prices. On Saturdays, they even offer a
special Latin menu to complement their Latin Live show. As you walk into the
restaurant, it has a modern retro feel to it so you don’t feel like you’re in a
diner at all. But, it's more than just a restaurant, a sizeable stage is along one side and hosts a wide range of
comedy shows, karaoke and live music entertainment throughout the week.
The fragrant crunchy coconut shrimp ($11.95) arrives piping
hot and I can’t wait to tuck in. Admittedly, the coating could be thinner as there were a couple that had softer parts. Perhaps, if the shrimp were covered in smaller
granules of coconut first and then the larger flakes sprinkled sparingly, it
may taste better. But, the slightly sweet kick mixed with the spicy mayo (a
must) made this a satisfying starter.
A diner favourite is the meatloaf and mash ($13.95). I’m not
a fan of soft meatloaves where bread crumbs overpower the
mixture causing it to get soft and overly smooth, so I was particularly happy
with the dense beefier one 120 Diner serves. The earthy mushroom gravy paired well with the meatloaf and buttery smooth mashed potatoes.
For club goers, the 120 grilled cheeseburger ($15.95) would
be perfect to share after a night of dancing. Stuffed with three cheeses, the
dairy definitely stole the show from the lean beef patty.
Although the menu
notes this is served on rosemary focaccia bread, it arrived on a soft ciabatta
roll instead. Likely it’s a better choice as the meat and cheese is already so
heavy that an oily focaccia would be overwhelming. But, I like the idea of an
herb mixed into the bun to help add a fresh element to the dish. 
Like most good diners the portion sizes are substantial and
will leave you full, if not with leftovers. If you’re not in the mood for food,
they also have a number of cocktails that can be enjoyed while enjoying a show. The cucumber
margarita ($9.75) is a great summer drink with cucumber pulp mixed throughout –
it’s refreshing without being overly sweet. While the Long Island iced tea ($9.75)
is strong but goes down so easy… almost too easy.
The restaurant’s name is certainly misleading as although
the menu contains diner favourites the atmosphere is much more entertaining.
From comedy acts to karaoke, it’s great for a night out. And, if that’s not
enough, there’s always Club 120 right upstairs, just purchase a ticket for a special event first.
Overall mark - 7 out of 10
Disclaimer: The above meal was complimentary. Rest assured, as noted in Gastro World's mission statement, I will always be honest.
How To Find Them
Location: Toronto, Canada
Address: 120 Church Street
Address: 120 Church Street
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____________________________
Gastro World's Grading System
- Anything under 5 - I really disliked and will never go back
- 6 - decent restaurant but I likely won't return
- 7 - decent restaurant and I will likely return
- 8 - great restaurant that I'd be happy to recommend
- 9 - fantastic restaurant that I would love to visit regularly and highly recommend
- 10 - absolute perfection!
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