Joyful (Food)

As you know, I am mad about food – cooking, restaurants, reading about it, anything and everything foodwise. Recently I have been fortunate to have done some restaurant reviews, but it is not these venues that I am writing about here. It is the everyday places that I have been eating in that have been most intriguing.

Recently I met one of my favourite people at Joy Bistro on Queen East. It was exciting, not only because I love Andrea more than words can say, but it was only the second day of the new seasonal menu. Spring was really here – at least inside the restaurant and according to the menu. Outside was blustery, and though it had been 20 degrees the day before, my thin tank top and tight jeans were not sufficient in keeping out the cold.

It was difficult to choose what to have (this is always a good sign), but after our giggle fits and the waitress’ patient strolls near and around our table we decided on Pad Thai for Ms. A and for me, the Soft Shell Crab Club sandwich because I can never refuse seafood – even if it’s for breakfast.

Andrea and I had a wonderful time catching up and then the food arrived. At first, I had been a bit surprised by the prices. I mean, this wasn’t Bistro 990 or Scaramouche, but for $16 an entrée, I certainly had expectations.

The Pad Thai came in a beautifully orchestrated nest, but a small one. It had a slow heat that was wonderful at first, but built to such heights during the meal that it soon became the topic of conversation.

My sandwich was good. It came with a silky spicy mayonnaise that was incredible. The soft shell crab was tender and meaty, and combined with bacon, lettuce and tomato should have been table-thumpingly good. There was only one problem - it came on whole wheat toast. It didn’t allow the crab to stand up and get noticed. Sourdough, foccacia or even fresh French bread, I envisioned, not the bread that comes with a greasy spoon breakfast or kids peanut butter sandwiches.

Should I hold the bread choice against them? No, of course not. But for $16, I was looking for a grander wrapping than brown paper, I mean, bread.

p.s. Andrea and I still meet for brunch and the meal is never as important as that.