Bar Mercurio

321 Bloor Street West

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

First I thought it was Terroni. Then, I was sure I had found it at Il Fornello. But now, I think I'm finally positive: Bar Mercurio serves the best pizza in Toronto!

Why there isn't a line up out the door at this mid-Bloor Street West location is beyond me. The only reason I can think to attribute its lack of popularity to is its placement on the slow drag between St. George and Spadina. Aside from this factor, Bar Mercurio's quaint mediterranean patio and suprisingly classy ambiance indoors is nothing less than inviting.

Once seated somewhere in view of the open kitchen, feast yours eyes upon the elegant and fresh menu describing a handful of tantalizing appetizers, pastas and pizza. And so finally, behold: the best pizza in Toronto!

Although I have not yet been to Italy, I would imagine that Bar Mercurio's pizza is almost exactly what I would be served, should I find myself in a Roman, Sicilian or Napolean trattoria. I am greated by an exquisitely thin, herbed crust, topped with a real, crushed tomato sauce. Not canned, not even pureed, simply fresh and tangy tomatoes. Toppings range from a variety of vegetables and meats, such as proscuitto, artichokes, eggplant, goat cheese and fresh herbs. All this provides an extremely light and zesty meal. A pizza your mouth will truly water for.

I would certainly promote Bar Mercurio to any diner looking for an A+ pizza.

Heart and Soul Cafe

2741 Dunrobin Road

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Why drive into downtown Ottawa, find parking, pay for parking and have a - perhaps - average breakfast, when you could take a nice Sunday drive in the northeast end of the city and arrive at something even better?

Like home cooked meals? Enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside? Cruise into Dunrobin, to the Heart and Soul Cafe, and find yourself surrounded by a comforting atmosphere, casual but friendly service, and delicious home-cooked meals to choose from.

Upon entering the Heart and Soul, you might find a couple of local heads shift in your direction, but you'll soon be regarded as harmless and welcomed into the group. Have a seat as if you're dining in your mother's kitchen, and await a warm cup of tea or fresh cuppa joe.

The menu is your normal breakfast fare: eggs any way you like 'em, omlettes, pancakes and waffles, but served with a warmth and authenticity that you likely won't find at your local suburban Cora's or Eggspectations.

You'll be pleasantly surprised when your relaxed breakfast arrives, and you have true Canadian back bacon on your plate, along with cut-fresh-this-morning (never frozen) homefries, freshly baked and lightly toasted bread, and a side of homemade jam.

There's nothing like going out for breakfast and leaving thinking: well, I couldn't have done better myself! If you're in the area I recommend taking the extra few minutes to drive outside of the city and enjoy one of Ottawa's hidden gems.