Café Nicole Bistro + Bar

Shocking, shocking service, and terrible food. Placed an online order for Christmas dinner. (i) No response to emails, and they hardly ever answer the phone (ii) when they do answer the phone, they promise to get back to you and then never do, (iii) the order was not ready for collection at the stipulated time, in spite of them insisting that this was the collection window, (iv) a unilateral change of menu from roast ham to tuna as a main meal for Christmas. Does this look like ,"Dijon Honey-roasted Ham with Maple-Honey Glaze, Herb Roasted Root Vegetable Medley, Fried Maple-Bacon-Almond Brussel Sprouts"?

December 24, 2024 on Google

Visited this spot for a late evening dinner, as it’s typically quieter and calmer on a Friday night compared to other venues in the area. We are party of two and each ordered the mushroom bourguignon, which was freshly prepared but unfortunately too salty. The service left much to be desired. The first waiter was friendly but distracted, often wandering off to change TV channels or chat with staff and the one and only customer at the bar. The second waiter, who served our food, seemed fine initially but surprised us when it came time to pay. He asked in advance if we were paying with cash or card, and upon hearing cash, returned with no receipt—neither on paper nor via a machine. Instead, he simply stated the total verbally. How does a decent establishment hotel in downtown Toronto without providing an itemized receipt when the bill was asked? While the mushroom bourguignon was reasonably priced at $20 CAD, the beer was shockingly overpriced at $15 per 16 oz glass for a basic import like Stella. The night before, I visited a local brewery where top-quality beers were $10, and a high-end cocktail cost only $16. To pay over $80 + tips for two for mediocre food, overpriced drinks and underwhelming service felt unacceptable.

November 30, 2024 on Google

The buffet breakfast was underwhelming. It had plenty of variety though. The waiter was attentive but he seemed to be irritated with his tip. I gave him $6 which he complained was just under 20% although when I calculated the total bill at 20% it came to 6.6 which means I was off by $.60 big deal I didn't think so but he apparently did. Then he asked me if I wanted him to return 1cad I said, no. He was the heavy set guy who wore glasses he had his apron uniform on. I felt like he should have just said, "thank you" then we could have avoided this whole drama he caused.

October 20, 2024 on Google

Went here for a brunch during holiday. I initially booked via OpenTable but we didn’t arrive on time. Nonetheless, staff are welcoming and accommodating. We were seated in less than 5 minutes, our server was so kind to show us the food they have prepared. The unlimited breakfast buffet has a lot of options. Eggs were a bit soggy but maybe it’s different from my taste— still a good one! The smoothie shots are a must try! Paid parking in front, clean restroom. It’s full when we got there but it’s not the kind of noisy and rowdy buffet place. Everyone is just enjoying the ambiance. Restrooms are nice and clean. Location wise: near CNE Tower (which we went to after). There were six of us and we shared $38 each including tip. All-in-all: 10/10. Will definitely be back.

September 4, 2024 on Google

Great cafe for a quick breakfast or brunch. It was a buffet style breakfast, with many options. They had a gluten free section, including a dedicated toaster. The pastries looked delectable, and were very popular. Our waiter was very informative and kind.

August 2, 2024 on Google

Happy Hour on the Patio was amazing! The patio is intimate. Each table and umbrella are placed between the imposing pillars offering privacy from the other guests. It was perfect. The pricing was outstanding, and the kitchen surprised us. We had such a great lunch and meeting that we forgot to take pictures. I'm looking forward to my next glass of wine on your patio!

July 1, 2024 on Google

I had some time to kill at Union Station and it was brunch time so I headed to Nicole’s. Salmon Benny was very tasty and the hash browns were a brilliant mix of regular and sweet potatoes. I asked for tea and got a thermos, which was much appreciated. Service was good, not amazing, but not bad either.

March 12, 2024 on Google

I walked by and saw a sign outside the cafe about happy hour. $5 beer and 50% off on selected appetizers. The food quality is good and the staff is nice. Very clean and quiet and environment. For sure I will go back again.

July 5, 2023 on Google