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REVIEWS - Le Commensal

Phone: (416)596-9364
655 Bay St., Toronto, ON

A small chain based in Quebec, Le Commensal has become a Toronto landmark in 4 short years. Typically voted #1 Vegetarian Restaurant by readers of Toronto's NOW magazine, there's not much to dislike.

Venturing into the buffet area, diners are faced with an incredible array of salads, exotic vegetables, hot pies, savouries, and desserts.

All dishes are vegetarian, but whether they contain eggs, dairy or are Vegan is clearly indicated above each dish.

Le Commensal uses the "Pay by Weight" method (of the meal....not the patrons) to charge. After selecting as many different dishes as can fit on the plate, the staff weighs the lot, and after subtracting the weight of the plate, the fee is determined. Rather than paying immediately, most visitors leave a credit card with the staff, allowing them to return for more.

The salads range from plain old greens, to beautifully original dishes such as Beet and Apple, or Wakame (seaweed) with vinegar. A wide array of dressings, dips and toppings means that the salad of your dreams is in front of you.

My favourite combination is a mixed green base, with mixed sprouts, shredded carrot, wakame, various nuts and seeds topped with a caper dressing. Try the scallion dip with a few celery sticks and radishes also. A Creamy (but not really) Potato Salad with a zesty half-avocado rounds out my usual selection.

There are about 30-40 Savoury dishes to choose from. Dishes such as Ginger Tofu and Millet Pie are my favourites. Staples such as Rice can be had, with Sweet Potatoes, Pizza and Quiche and a wide assortment of curries, stews, soups and vegetables. Many of these dishes tend to the heavy side so a word of caution to the unitiated to take it a little easy the first time. We've seen many friends leave complaining that they really liked the food, but wished they'd loved it a little less. My favourites are the Millet Pie, and Ginger Tofu.

Desserts can be a challenge for Vegans, as many are sweetened with milk, cream or honey. We're well cared for at Le Commensal though, where there are soy cakes, tapiocas, rice pudding and the Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies in Toronto (I usually buy a few "to-go" before I leave also).

Le Commensal is licensed, and serves wine and beer along with various fresh squeezed juices, coffees and tea. The location downtown, between Bay and Yonge (Elm Street is across from Sam The Record Man on Yonge) makes it ideal for a quick lunch (no slow staff!), or for a relaxing dinner. If your meal is more than $10, your underground parking is free for 2 hours (quick bite and some shopping anyone....?).

groovegan rating: *****

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