GAYLEY’S
(1424 Dundas West, at Gladstone, 416-538-3443)
This low-profile luncheonette offers inexpensive all-day breakfasts and substantial soup ‘n’ salad noshes in a relaxed room that would be horizontal if it were any more laid-back. Fun for the family. Complete meals for $10 per person, including all taxes and tip. Open Monday to Friday 7 am to 6 pm, Saturday 7 am to 5 pm, Sunday 9 am to 3 pm. Unlicensed. Cash only. Access: short step at door, washrooms on same floor. Rating: NNN
Rating: NNNNN
Friends who live in the Dovercourt-Dundas area have been regaling me for years with tales of Gayley’s, a casual spot that’s never too crowded, always has stacks of newspapers to read and whips up a respectable all-day breakfast for $4.95. Just don’t be in a hurry: everything’s made to order — very slowly. Though there’s nothing here that warrants a special trip, Gayley’s sandwiches — especially those made on thick slices of Calabrese ring — are some of the biggest in town. My fave: #21, grilled zucchini, mild Havarti, sweet sun-dried tomatoes and sprouts ($4.25).
Sauced in bland hollandaise, eggs Benedict ($5.95), sided with perfunctory fries, isn’t as tasty as either Mitzi’s but works as a midday fill-up. The house salad ($3) of carrot sticks and pepper strips over ripped romaine gets dressed with an oil-and-oregano vinaigrette that’s strictly home ec.
Nice people, good coffee, quiet spot.
