The Gabardine Toronto

Gabardine

The Gabardine is tucked away in the heart of the 9 to 5 Bay Street jungle, underneath a construction awning canopy and next to a 7-11. Once inside, time all at once slows down and you will be standing in a gastropub minus the pretension. Alison Mackenna, one of the founding staff (along with Katherine Rodrigues and Chef Rodney Bowers), welcomed me in and kept friendly company all evening.

On tap, there is a choice of Sapporo, Okanagan Spring Pale Ale, Sleeman’s Original and Blanche de Chambly. I started with a pint of Sapporo and the Rabbit Rillette with Sour Cherries, Pickled Green Beans, Rhubarb Jam and toast. The Rillette was well balanced with the cherries, whose sour taste complimented the sweet rhubarb jam.

I was advised that the house favorite main dishes were the pulled pork burger and the black cod. Having had a burger already that day I went with the Brined Pork with Polenta and Vincotta. I can’t stress enough how delicious and perfectly cooked the pork tasted along with a bite of creamy polenta and vincotto. I soon ordered a Okanagan Spring Pale Ale which I had tried a few times before in Montreal at Lawrence.

For dessert, Alison tempted me with the second last slice of Banana Cream Pie with Crème Fraiche and burnt Toffee Sauce. Although I had difficulty finishing this because I was so full, it was a perfect balance of sweet banana cream with burnt tones from the toffee and sour from the crème fraiche.

The prices are extremely reasonable and the bar also boasts an extensive Libations menu.

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