Nice Nice
Nice Nice wine bar and Extra Burger share this one-of-a-kind space.
Nice Nice was conceived by the people behind Superpoint, which used to take up residence here as an "Express" location.
The space is bisected into two opposite but complementary halves. The high-ceilinged Extra Burger side is more takeout-style with zero seating, but there are slim ledges suitable for leaning on while crushing burgers.
Don't expect table service, although offerings from either concept can be enjoyed throughout the space, allowing for some very intriguing burger and wine pairing opportunities.
Pass through a tinkly beaded curtain to the much moodier and dimmer Nice Nice space seating roughly 18.
A cheeseburger ($7) from Extra Burger is the exact same here as it would be at their original Dundas West location. You can even see three-ounce chuck patties being smashed onto the grill from the cash just like at the other spot.
They're sandwiched between toasted rolls and topped with melty American cheese, kosher pickles, tomato, shredded lettuce and sauce. The result is a textbook smash burger with a great combination of textures and a comforting flavour.
You can also always go for a double ($9) or add bacon for $2.
Crinkle cut fries ($4) are heavily seasoned and excellent dipped in some tangy special sauce. Apparently the move is to order secret menu item "party fries" after midnight, loaded up with the kind of toppings you might find on fries supreme.
I highly recommend some juicy pickle wedges on the side for $3.
Nice Snacks by Paris Paris make for a tight wine bar menu for those who don't wish to opt for burgers.
A small mixed pickle plate ($5) of very acidic pepper and artichoke is served swimming in oil.
Dense, meaty green olives ($5) are similarly silken and oily. Items like honey roasted nuts, saucisson and panna cotta go for the same price.
The snacks top out at $10 for a velvety, rich chicken liver pate served with thick Melba toasts, the only other item at the same price point a chevre with blueberry compote.
While wines are thoughtfully curated they're not necessarily strictly organic or natural, though there are plenty of local options.
A glass of freisa goes well with both the snacks and burgers, juicy with a slightly unexpected funkiness and carbonation, almost reminding me of a sour beer.
There are also options for white, skin contact, and sparkling wines like Prince Edward County's Closson Chase "Mosaic" Chardonnay ($13).
There are even options like a canned Nova Scotian Benjamin Bridge "Nova 7" Muscat ($16). Cans of 50 ($6) are available on the Extra Burger side.
You'll also be able to expect to find Bar Ape gelato here, and occasional specials and pop-ups appear here from time to time.
Extra Burger has permanently closed at this location but Nice Nice remains open.
Hector Vasquez