Rashers Ossington
Rashers makes really good bacon sandwiches. Toronto's east side already knows it , but now the other end of the city can get in on the secret too.
Just like at the original Leslieville location, a framed portrait of Kevin Bacon looks over the room. That's where the similarities end; this place is way bigger and feels more inviting.
A mural by artist @greatwavekate shows Toronto through bacon-hued lenses; the IKEA monkey lurks in one corner while Susur Lee tries to pinch Drake's bacon sandwich with a pair of chopsticks.
The menu is as bacon-centric as can be, covering quintessential sandwiches like Hogtown's famous peameal on a bun ($8), British-style bacon butty ($8) and an American-style strip bacon sandwich ($8).
Customization is encouraged. You can add an egg (plus $1) and/or cheese (plus $1) to each sandwich. Hold the brown sauce? Add some ale mustard? No problem.
The Hogtown sandwich is better than at Carousel . Here, the thick stack of succulent, crispy-edged peameal is loaded onto a fresh Ace Bakery bun. A perfect runny egg spills out the sides. Nostalgia aside, it's no contest; this is the superior sandwich.
In addition the basics, there are a few signature sandwiches to consider. The ultra-rich brie and bacon ($10), dressed with sweet, deeply caramelized onions and garlic aioli, is among the top sellers.
The bacon burger ($11) would've made this list if I sampled it sooner. The beef and lardon patty is juicy and it's layered with crispy smoked strip bacon. Lettuce, tomato and house-made chipotle mayo top it off.
Potato wedges and curly fries for $4 are available on the side. And if you want a salad, you're in the wrong place.
Photos by Jesse Milns