Toronto - Taverne Tamblyn
Can Tavernes be French? Now I'm just confused.
As it turns out, the internet (Reddit) is fairly divided when it comes to defining pub, tavern, and bar. Historically, the pub (Public House) is a place to be served alcohol, have a meal, and a good time. Taverns, a moniker more popular in Colonial America, were licensed to have accomodations and sold more simple, but high end food as taverns were places you would do business. A pub can be a tavern of course, but a bar focuses on the alcohol (on the spectrum of dive bars to sports bars to fancy hotel lobby bars).
This brings us to, Tavern Tamblyn, the French-food serving establishment on the Danforth.
If they had asked me to name the place, I would have called it Le Pub Tamblyn.
What We Ordered: We were a large group, so it is safe to say we ordered most things on the menu; Steak au Poivre $27 | Beef Bourguignon $24 | Les Moules $19 | etc.
The small plates (things of the mousse and pate variety) were served in small pots, which was inconvenient for a group. The sausages and olives were just a couple slices of salami and a handful of olives. The beef fat fried french fries made up for these plates.
Address: 1426 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 4R3
Recommend For: Groups of 4 - 6. There were many couples with their parents, casual date nights (both young and old). I would not brag about the food, but the friendly service, casual but cosy setting, and lively but not loud atmosphere make this a good, convenient neighbourhood spot. It would be that 6.5 / 10 - “let’s just go to Tavern Tamblyn” tonight.
Reservations: Yes, on the internet.