By The Way

Specialties

By The Way (BTW) offers contemporary Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare, as well as a selection of Mexican bites in the heart of downtown Toronto’s Annex neighborhood. BTW has been a unique staple in the Bloor West area, right at the corner of Bloor Street and Brunswick Avenue. A familiar destination for both locals and out-​of-​towners, BTW has grown and evolved with Canada’s most cosmopolitan city, becoming a well known landmark in one of Toronto’s most highly regarded and quaint neighborhoods. In addition to the independently focused shops that surround it, BTW is within walking distance of the historic University of Toronto, Royal Ontario Museum, Royal Conservatory’s Koerner Hall, Tarragon Theater, Bloor Hot Docs Cinema, and the upscale Yorkville shopping district.

Whether it’s Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Weekend Brunch, or Late Night Jazz, BTW is a casual fine dining eatery that creates dishes that are as exquisite as they are healthy. Daily specials are carefully created, inspired by fresh seasonal ingredients and a selection of aromatic spices. In addition to world renowned ales and lagers, BTW’s vast wine menu features a selection of hand-​picked house wines and vintages to accompany your meal.

History

Established in 1979.

By The Way is family owned by local residents of the Annex. It all started in 1979 as a take-​out spot for University of Toronto students and neighbors. In the early days it became famous for the Middle Eastern fare and the frozen yogurt Dubi and Esti (The Rosedale Diner) had introduced to the area. BTW became a Bloor Street icon as a result of the retro ‘Licken Chicken’ sign, which the building landlord insisted on preserving! The window’s ‘Sorry Out of Chicken’ joke became a neighborhood quip! Since then, BTW evolved into a fine casual dining establishment that continues to cater to our loyal clientele, and which welcomes new crowds and new faces to savor the best the Annex has to offer. Always mindful of freshness, good value, and nice atmosphere, BTW is in the process of continual transformation. We have secured a new lease with a new landlord who supports small locally owned businesses. Watch out for our upcoming fresh new look while we keep the integrity and value of our food.

Meet the Business Owner

Amir and Ruthy B.

Business Owner

Amir and his wife Ruthy bring together their heritage and their love for food into their home kitchen, and into their Bloor Street eatery. From a mixed cultural background they are inspired by Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines, both of which call for the freshest ingredients, herbs, and spices.

Amir grew up immersed in an environment of farming in a Kibbutz where fresh salads were eaten for breakfast along with creamy cheeses made locally. He loved the farm, the animals, and the freshness of the produce that was harvested every day.

Ruthy brought her childhood favorites from Mexico City to BTW, before Toronto ever heard of avocados or mangoes! She inspired BTW’s kitchen to use interesting ingredients, such as Chipotle, Chiles Poblanos, cilantro, and Jicama among others.

This blend of cultures and heritages has resulted in a creative and contemporary cuisine, which is also complemented by Amir’s careful selection of local and international wines, ales and beers.