el rincon mexicano

with new mexican joints popping up all over the city, it should be easy to get a last-minute reso at one of the many establishments, but not so. after many phone calls to various places, we were finally able to find an available table at el rincon mexicano restaurant (653 st clair west).  while the decor was overdone and a little cheesy, the food was delicious. it was one of the first summer evenings of the year, and we opted to be seated on the back patio. feeling reminiscent of a caribbean resort, it was a fun atmosphere.

we started with the guacamole ranchero
their mashed avocado dip served with chips and salsa
this was really delicious and a perfect way to start the meal

can't go wrong with ice-cold corona

housemade pico de gallo...spicy!

rk ordered the tacos a la parilla (soft tacos) with beef.
it came with:
rice, refried beans and salad

having a corn allergy makes mexican dining somewhat challenging, however the staff were accommodating in bringing me flour-tortillas. i had the vegetarian tacos (tortillas filled with rice, refried beans and grilled veggies. topped with shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, feta and sour cream)

menu

would we go back? maybe, but we would both rather explore one of the many new places around the city.

the stockyards

after listening to all the hype, ap and i checked out the latest bbq joint, the stockyards, for a rare weekday-lunch that could only be scheduled during march break.
inconspicuously nestled between random shops on st clair west, we weren't prepared for a nearly-full house on a tuesday at noon. bar-seating only, we quickly grabbed seats where we had a view of where the magic happens, right in front of the grill. the atmosphere is very comfortable, with a relaxed-country feel and lots of toronto old-time memorabilia. the staff were friendly, accommodating and helpful when it came to decision time. they definitely steered us in the right direction.

notable items:
the meat is so good, definitely due to their 18-hour smoking process
you can order for pick up
they only sell their bbq ribs and whole bbq chickens on tuesdays, fridays and sundays after 5pm

699 st clair west

best ginger-ale in town, hard to find, easy to drink.

ap ordered the slow-smoked BBQ pork with slaw on the side. it was enough for 3 people
add: delicious fries

i ordered the the oak and hickory bbq beef brisket with stockyards bbq sauce,
garlic mayo and carmalized onions.
i barely ate half, but RK enjoyed it for dinner

some of the great memoribila that adds to the country-feel

 the stockyards has a legendary brunch menu that is, unfortunately, only offered on weekends. due to limited seating (only 18 counter seats in the whole joint), i am not sure where all these weekend-dwellers eat, but i am positive they devour every last bite, especially of the much-touted chicken and waffles. oh well, there is always next time!

highly recommend. but get there early to grab a seat!