In Toronto where queuing up for brunch is akin to a sport, there's something refreshing and extra satisfying about treading off the beaten path to seek out a spot tucked away in a residential neighbourhood or located away from all the hustle and bustle.

Here's where to eat brunch in Toronto off the beaten path.

Luna Cafe
Like an island of good eats on a primarily residential section of Dovercourt Rd., Luna is a sunny and relaxed spot that the locals probably don't want you to know about. Every plate out of the kitchen is pretty, from pancakes topped with whipped cream and fruit to hollandaise smothered poached eggs over pan fried mushrooms and roughage.

Mitzi's
Mitzi's is hardly a secret, but it's still a lone wolf come brunch time on this stretch of Sorauren. The ever-changing menu gets innovative with the classics, offering weekly takes on pancakes, poached eggs, French toast and omelettes. Tater tot poutine topped with runny eggs, oatmeal pancakes dressed in bananas, and dulce de leche are among the most recent examples.

Riverdale Perk
Just south of Withrow Park on Logan, this charming cafe serves up Sunday brunch featuring bacon and brie-stuffed French toast, pulled pork eggs Benedict and an omelette du jour.

Cafe Neon
Occupying a ground level suite in a loft on Wallace, this cafe has steadily gained a following for its Sam James coffee and breakfast sandwiches. On weekends, find the kitchen turning out eggs Benny all-day along with stacks of blueberry pancakes and yogurt granola bowls that look like sundaes.

Maha's
Located on a quiet stretch of Greenwood, Maha's Egyptian brunch has become a destination in its own right. Traveling the distance is well worth the reward for honey cardamom lattes and sunny eggs with foole, but be sure to inquire about the off-menu "Max's Platter."

Photo of Luna Cafe by @emmmlulu