On a recent trip to Toronto I was looking for a light and quick lunch and after a short stroll down Queen Street W I ran into Cafe Bernate. A lucky encounter, if I do say so myself.

The spot is a cute, cherry little cafe and while I took my food to go it seemed like it would be nice enough to eat there. They offer a few different soups, salads, and sandwiches and I ordered a simple house salad... more

We recently stopped here for lunch while doing Contact. Basically serves soups, salads and sandwiches. I had a side salad and sandwich. Nothing out if the ordinary but found the bread, a baguette, to be on the stale side. It was way more chewy than I would have liked.

Overall a clean establishment with fast and friendly service.

Honestly, I would never patronize this business, ever. I was just about to lock up my bike out front but the door had a "closed" sign clearly visible even though there were customers inside and on the patio. I went in to ask the guy behind the counter if they were open, at first he didn't even look up, when he finally did, he was so rude and so surly and argumentative, and really angry that I... more

Nothing too revolutionary about the sandwiches but the service is quick and I'd rather go here than the Tim Hortons/Starbucks nearby. Had the avocado, brie, chicken sandwich and the chicken was rather bland but I don't think they're really going for bold flavours on a sandwich like that.

Bernate is right across the street from my work so it's always been a quick, easy lunch. I used to go here at minimum, twice a week. Staff/owners are really friendly and always have a nice chat once they get to know you. Baked goods, especially the chocolate chip cookies are to die for. I've had nearly every sandwich on their menu and I must say, they are never a disappointment... UNTIL... one... more

Not very welcoming but great espresso/latte

Wanted to introduce a friend to a little slice of Queen West hobo-cool cafe life. this cafe is very "earthy" (ie floor is not much cleaner than the sidewalk outside) but that is, presumably, part of the eclectic off-the-beaten-path charm. my latte and my friend's espresso were excellent but the service was horrible. I believe the man who served us... more

BOTTOM LINE: One of my go-to lunch spots when I want something light, refreshing and fast.

(3.5 STARS)

I frequent Cafe Bernate regularly and it never disappoints. In the summer, their back patio provides a quiet space away from the traffic of Queen West.

I usually get their combo which rotates a random sandwich with their soup of the day or a salad. Their sandwich offerings are so extensive... more

A very quaint cafe shop i heard known for its delish sandwiches and fresh coffees. it's one of those places that is easy to miss when walking by a very busy queen street. A nice and quiet atmosphere good to just hang out and enjoy the very detailed art work surronding you. check on the front bar area and notice the cool stuff embeded into the counter. Also noticed the tray of fresh baked goods... more

Came here for an afternoon snack. It was almost 5pm but the owner was very welcoming and told us to feel free to stay as long as we wanted since he had lots of cleaning to do anyway.

I ordered the avocado, asparagus, provolone and tomato sandwich and the hubby got chicken, swiss and tomato. The sandwiches were alright...nothing too mind-blowing. They taste exactly like what's in them. I liked... more

I love making new discoveries in familiar neighbourhoods. Had lunch at Cafe Bernate after a friend recommended it. Looks very unassuming from the outside, but as Marie F. mentioned, there is a large seating area (and in the summer, patio) in the back and there is a vast menu of 30 different sandwiches!

The atmosphere is casual and cozy, with rotating art on display, accommodating and warm... more

What's up with restaurants in the Queen and Ossington strip closing at 3pm and opening at 6pm?! I mean seriously people, it's 3:30pm on a Friday and I am hungry! Their loss is my win I guess because as a result of this most distasteful realization I stumbled upon Café Bernate.

The place looks small at first glance, but don't worry, there is a huge back room area with plenty of seating and even... more

Funky Brunch Spot

We found this small funky restaurant in a funky part of Queen West, although the area ( between Gladstone and Ossington ) needs a little more development. They have two plates for Saturday Brunch and both are really good. The food tastes exactly the way they should, to a tiny piece of tomato. Their sesame-seed dressing is on a little... more

I stopped in here on a wonderful sunny afternoon. It's a cute little spot with a big chalkboard menu and some cute little tables.
I ordered a limeade and a sandwich.
The person working was very gruff and didn't seem terribly pleased to serve me. It was sort of odd 'cause it was a beautiful day, I waited patiently to order and said all the right things (please, thank you, etc.) and wasn't snarky... more

Love it.
Fantastic coffee (Lavazzo), a wonderful owner, chocolate cookies to die for, and a general cool ambiance.
Great for a rainy day.

Great and friendly cafe open from 10-4 daily. Weekend bru...

Great and friendly cafe open from 10-4 daily. Weekend brunches are good but best for regular healthy lunches. Over 25 sandwich varieties on fresh breads with simple but delicious soups and salads.