If you’ve ever wandered through Parkdale and wondered where everyone seems to be effortlessly having the best time (and snapping the best pics), the answer is SIMPL THINGS.

The all-day cocktail and snack bar founded by Toronto’s drinks visionary Evelyn Chick has quickly become one of those neighbourhood spots that feels like it’s been around forever, even though it only opened in 2023. It’s the kind of place where you slide into a curved chair, glance around at the vintage-Miami colour palette, and instantly get why it keeps landing on “best of” lists across North America.

This season, SIMPL THINGS rolled out a refreshed colder weather menu, and Chef Cody Wilkes (the mastermind behind their beloved comfort-Italian-by-day/Taiwanese-by-night concept) is steering things in an excitingly cozy direction.

We stopped by to try the new dishes, and left with full hearts, FULLER stomachs, and a strong suspicion this may be one of Toronto’s most underrated date idea gems.

a martini menu that lets you be the main character

Starting strong: the martini situation here is fun. In addition to their regular menu of creative and deliciously crafted cocktails, SIMPL THINGS has a DIY martini sheet.

Yes, an actual little menu worksheet, where you can build your perfect combo. Spirit, dryness, flavour intensity, even garnishes. It feels interactive without being gimmicky, and you end up sipping a martini that truly tastes like you.

For me, that meant a crisp, dirty martini with just the right briny hit. A strong opener, in every sense.

They also have a selection of non-alcoholic options that don’t opt for the regular juice or soda; there’s thoughtful seltzers and mocktails that will have you stocking up for home at the end of your visit!

the day starts with simpl brunch comfort

The brunch menu is cozy and classic, blending breakfast and lunch time into one hazy, bright morning and afternoon.

From this menu, we tried their iconic (and highly regarded by MULTIPLE people in the spot at the time) French Toast.

This isn’t your typical, either. Thick egg-dipped milk bread is caramelized with brown sugar, and doused in Ontario maple syrup, topped with the most delicate dollop of chantilly cream, and berry preserves.

Decadent, yes. But not heavy, which is actually a shock when you see the huge mass that arrives on your plate.

It’s the kind of shareable dish that makes a cute “let’s split something sweet” moment without pushing you into full food-coma territory.

chef cody thinks about the pasta lovers, too

One of the joys of SIMPL THINGS is their rotating fresh-pasta feature, made entirely in-house, and truly depending on the chef’s mood that day.

We lucked into a cozy tomato-bolognese situation that tasted like the kind of recipe someone only shares with you if they already love you a little. Rich without being overwhelming, unfussy but deeply considered. Classic Chef Cody.

and all the reasons you need to go, or stay, for dinner

At night, the vibe flips seamlessly into a Taiwanese-inspired snack bar, and the bao buns and share plates are where the menu really shows its personality.

We tried soft, cloud-like bao stuffed with house-made fillings and a selection of savoury bites from the evening menu, enough to confirm that if you’re coming for brunch or lunch, you should absolutely stay long enough to “accidentally” slide into dinner.

Everything on the menu is rooted in local sourcing from Ontario meats to fish from Affinity Fish, seasonal produce, and you can taste that thoughtful simplicity in every dish.

the vibes? also immaculate

SIMPL THINGS walks that perfect line between elevated and easygoing: quality food without ego, innovative cocktails without pretension, and a warmth that feels genuinely community-first.

The space just works, like stepping into your coolest friend’s apartment, where everything is intentionally chosen, but nothing tries too hard.

It’s charming, it’s creative, and it’s a Parkdale staple for a reason. And with this new fall/winter menu, it’s officially a must-add to your Toronto date night rotation.

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