Smock- the do over edition

Back in the early fall, in my post titled “Autumn is here- now what part one”) I mentioned a brief and unsatisfying visit to a Smock, a kid friendly restaurant on Roncesvalles Ave in Toronto. I said that I would go back again to give it another go and I did a week ago.

We went after Rainbow Songs in the late morning and it was not too busy, mostly mums like me who had come from various classes in the neighbourhood. The decor is super cozy, done in shabby chic white. There are lots of tables and even a hidden reading nook along the banquet where little people can settle down with a book while mum finishes her lunch in peace. That is really the key to Smock- mums can actually finish their lunch and coffee, even if their kid has long since escaped the table. No one looks at you strangely if your toddler is playing with one of the wooden toys provided in the middle of the floor. The staff is quite adept at dodging little legs and fingers.
The menu is select and mostly comprised of healthy soups, salads and sandwiches ( I had a delicious Salami Panini). They also provide a variety of healthy food options for children- Buds had pita, cheese and blueberries!

In contrast to my first attempted visit, I found the staff pleasant and helpful, but not in your face. The chef told me that they are hoping to get a liquor licence and stay open until 8PM for dinner in the future, but they are having some issues with people in the area worrying that parents will- and I quote- be “vomiting in the street”… really?
Going out for a 6PM dinner and having a glass of wine in the presence of your child does not make parents crazy!!! I hope they get the licence and not so that I can booze it up with Buds around, but so I can have a nice dinner out as a family where no one is giving me the evil eye when my kid gets tired and grumpy during dessert!!!

If you happen to be in the area, check out Smock!
For older kids there is a craft area in the back that can be used all day for a small fee.