Rejoice! This week is forecasted to get warmer by the day, hitting a peak of 22 sunny degrees on the long weekend Saturday.  It doesn’t really get any better than that for the Easter holiday weekend, does it?

In preparation for the forthcoming weather awesomeness, it seems only suiting for this edition of Food Fanatics to showcase some of the best patio spots in Toronto.  Who doesn’t love lounging at a great spot with friends over some beers, nibbling on tasty treats and watching the inevitable fashion crimes that come out of the wood works as the warm weather approaches?

Picking the best patios in the city of course comes with weighing a variety of factors – location, food, patio style, drinks and the type of crowd. The following are just a few of my personal faves, but be sure to comment with the ones that make your list.

For those of you who don't know me that well yet, my consumer based life is mostly centered around the two big Fs.  These two big Fs are what most of my disposable (and should be savings...) go into.  The big Fs are also what I spend most of my time thinking about, talking to friends and colleagues about, and searching online for.  Have I left you in suspense long enough?  These two Fs are fashion and FOOD. 
I don't know if I would consider myself a "foodie" per se. I've always felt that term to be a bit serious; I mean I can't very well name off all the different cuts of beef or significant French sauces (or cook anything to save my life for that matter...).  But, I can say that I love to eat good food and even watch a movie here and there that's all about eating and drinking (think Julie & Julia or Sideways).  With my love of food also comes a constant quest for new places to grab a bite, and let's be real here people, recommendations are the best way to go!  It's usually those places that a friend suggests that eventually becomes an old faithful.   And so, this will be the first of several instalments about the quest for good eats in the Toronto area.  Today, let's chat a bit about good value...

Getting a good bite in a big city like Toronto can get pretty pricey, and we all know that watching the pocket book is key.  The list that follows are 4 spots that are tried and true, which deliver on taste, quality and a reasonable price.

For a fun breakfast or lunch spot, Sadie’s Diner at Adelaide and Portland is a great little place.  Some may find it a bit of a dive upon first glance, but the food is always clean and fresh.  The menu is all vegetarian or vegan, but trust me, it's tasty and hearty.  I suggest their $6 grilled cheese combo or their lunch burrito with a side of guac.  Another great new spot is Arepa Café on the Queen West strip.  For anyone who loves Mexican food, arepas are somewhat like a Venezuelan version of tortillas.  Cafe Arepa serves several versions of a classic arepa for a good fast food price.

Another relatively new spot which has been talked and talked about in Toronto is Pizzeria Libretto.  I suppose it's not new news, but it's worth noting that the pizza there is stellar and it's a relatively reasonable price for two to dine.  Reservations there are not an option though, so be prepared to wait a little while.



Finally, a great spot which is a staple in my lunch routine is Gandhi Cuisine.  By far the best roti I've ever had, and a huge portion that can serve you for two lunches in a row!  Once again, this spot is on Queen West, just East of Bathurst.

I'm always looking for new spots, so please post and let me know what your favourite places to eat are, that are also a good value!

Bon appetite and stay tuned for next time!

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