So here's the deal, I'm not exactly the world's most patient person. Truth be told there's not much I loathe more than waiting and lineups make me want to claw my eyes out. If I had a choice there would be very little I would actually line up for. I mean, other than a million dollars, not much springs to mind that would be worth the wait. Which is why I can't understand restaurants that deliberately try to provoke me by not taking reservations and encouraging block-long lines outside their doors.
Case in point: Guu Izakaya. When some friends put the screws to me and forced me to accompany them recently, I insisted we go during the week as I've already heard stories about the long wait times (even with a sitting time limit of 2 hours). I had also heard raves about the restaurant so I figured that even if I ended up in my seat with bleeding eyes I would at least be compensated with some good eating. I wasn't disappointed. The food was good, reasonably priced and the atmosphere is lively. Portions are small, tapas-style, so great for ordering lots and sharing among dining partners. Still doesn't answer my question as to why the restaurant can't accept reservations--especially for large parties, although I do understand that it is a small place. And while our wait wasn't as long as some of the stories I've heard I doubt I will be going back if I have to face a line up again.
Seems that several pizzerias in the city like Terroni and Pizzeria Libretto also buy into the no-reservation policy (although Terroni does make exceptions for certain areas at certain locations). Slightly frustrating, but at least with places like Libretto they will take your cell number and call you when a table opens up. I'm much more agreeable when my waiting is done at the bar across the street downing drinks rather than standing outside the restaurant like a fool. Maybe it's just me.
You can imagine how happy I was to find out that the new offering from Libretto's team, Enoteca Sociale, does accept reservations for fifty-percent of their seating (which isn't much, the place is small but cozy). I've been twice now and I have to say that I enjoy it. The staff is super friendly and I like the tasting menu options (great for sharing and not feeling overstuffed). The arugula with veal sweetbread app I had on my latest visit was seriously amazing.
How do you feel about no-reservation restaurants?
On an unrelated note, Toronto peeps, have you eaten at Parts and Labour? I've only had drinks there, but I've heard mixed things about the food. Plus, I'm not a very adventurous eater. Menu items like "fried pigs face" and anything horse do nothing for me.
If you've tried the food let me know what you thought.
On an unrelated note, Toronto peeps, have you eaten at Parts and Labour? I've only had drinks there, but I've heard mixed things about the food. Plus, I'm not a very adventurous eater. Menu items like "fried pigs face" and anything horse do nothing for me.
If you've tried the food let me know what you thought.
And the winner of the Dear Colleen giveaway, chosen via random.org, is...
Congrats Mackenzie!! Shoot me your shipping info via email when you can.
