The Beaconsfield (Toronto)

Location: Toronto, Canada
Address: 1154 Queen Street West
Type of Meal: Dinner



The Beaconsfield makes me feel young. A dimly lit bar turned supper club, the music is way too loud and hipsters are everywhere. Indeed, they’re likely there for dinner and drinks prior to going to the Drake Hotel, which is right across the street. It reminds me of the nights my friends and I danced the night away at the Drake. Alas, I’m older now and happy to just have drinks across the street, away from the crowds.

Despite what their website promotes, the restaurant no longer offers a prefixe menu. But, prices are reasonable and portions huge so one really doesn’t need three courses. Instead, my friends and I decide to share a few appetizers to go with our mains.

The spring rolls ($6) needs more vegetables, as I found the glass noodles and wrapper overpowered everything. Also, the filling could benefit from the addition of soya sauce, sesame oil and pepper to give it flavour, rather than relying solely on the hoison or spicy thai sauce that accompanies it.


The grilled calamari ($14) was decent with two portions and plenty of grilled vegetables. It’s perfect for the health conscious as there’s no sauces. Despite being simply salted, the dish was still good.


But, the best was definitely the spicy southern mac n’ cheese ($13). Prepared traditionally with macaroni and cheddar, there’s a subtle hint of heat from sriracha added to it. The dish is topped with crushed Corn Flakes which gives it crunch, but also soaks up a bit of the sauce creating a lighter gratin topping.  


The Beaconsfield burger ($18) is a full meal! Served with a takeout container of average tasting fries and a bowl of mixed green salad (plain but well dressed), there are plenty of sides. Meanwhile, the burger contains a nice thick beef patty. Despite being cooked through, it’s still juicy and tender and topped with sweet oven roasted tomatoes, sharp cheddar and caramelized onions. All in all, a delicious and great value main.


My friend’s pan seared rack of lamb ($24) is worth noting, adorned with a flaming sprig of rosemary releasing a great aroma as it’s brought to the table.


In the end, growing up isn’t that bad. No longer do I have to deal with waiting in lines, crowds and aching feet at the end of the night. After all, enjoying a burger and wine with friends is a pretty nice alternative.


Overall mark - 7 out of 10


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Gastro World's Grading System

  • Anything under 5 - I really disliked and will never go back
  • - 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!