Maggies

Think of the slowest service you've ever had. Now multiply that time by 3, and you have your wait time for your order to be taken. Now take that same number, and you have the amount of time it takes to actually get your food. Lastly, take that same number again, and that is how long it takes for you to get your bill.

The problem with Maggies isn't its food, because the "Maggie Supreme" is a delicious combination of pancakes, eggs, meat and fruit that will fill any hungry traveller. To drink, all Maggies brunch specials come with coffee or tea, but to get that refilled is wishful thinking, especially if they are busy, which they usually are.

Maggies has very limited space, and while most small places would play up being cozy and small (especially on College), Maggies decides to cover its walls with pretentious art that haven't changed in a year and cram as much seating inside making it hard to navigate. So, what is it, have the owners stopped caring? Are numbers the important thing, or are they letting their food speak for itself?

On food alone, Maggies is great. Sausage is spiced and cooked to perfection, eggs are cooked well, and fruit is fresh and a perfect accompaniment to most of their dishes. However, a dining experience has to be more than just good food.

I'd recommend picking an old favourite if you're torn between the old hangout and Maggies. At the end of the day, at Maggies you wait too long for food that isn't amazing, but passes for good. While you may end up full, on a Sunday morning, if you have more important things to do, Maggie's is not the way to go. By the time you get your bill, it is nearly lunch.

With Boom and Kalendar on the same stretch, Maggies is making it really easy to just walk by. What used to be fast and friendly service, has transformed into slow and uninterested.

Price: $15-25

Maggie's
400 College St

Hot House Cafe

Famous in the city of Toronto for its brunch buffet, Hot House was easily one of my earlier choices for a brunch fix. A lover of food, and moreso buffets, Hot House comes out strong offering a diverse selection of breakfast and lunch cuisine. Options range from a pancake and waffle station, to a roast beef carving station. While you are there, get yourself an omelette made to your liking with a wide variety of fillings.

Coupled with smooth Jazz, and beautiful (yet not overwhelming) decor, Hot House's brunch buffet really hits the mark.

You will easily go up for seconds and thirds, because there is so much to choose from. Even if it is too much, you won't have to worry because you'll definitely want to go again and again.

Brunch is 18.95 for all you can eat, but beverages are separate and are your average selection of juice, coffee and tea.

While those watching their figures may only make this an annual trip, it is well worth it, and eventually you'll give up your new years resolution and make it a regular event.

Price: $25-35