NEXT DOOR
Neighbourhood: West Broadway
Address: 116 Sherbrook St
Phone: 431-887-2337
Entrees: $13 – $31
Next Door pours hospitality generously and still manages to ooze cool vibes. From a warm greeting at the door to informed servers exuding enthusiastic dish descriptions, the hip service team brings warmth to a minimalist aesthetic.
The setting, filled with plenty of communal style tables, is established for engaged convivial dining that hinges on sharing. Naked tables, indoors and outside, and a simple sheet menu – set a low-key tone at this neighbourhood haunt. Yet, a quick skim over the page, amid the buzz of chatter, sets up anticipation.
Brew partner Good Neighbour Brewing Company ensures guests have something cold – hazy, sour or pale – to imbibe and complement flavours of the kitchen. A creative bar has everyone covered, even if tastes skew toward orange wine and artisanal cocktails.
This is a palate pleasing play zone, a tribute to creative chefs, Stefan and Nyk, progenitors of the south Osborne sandwich specialist, Hoagie Boyz.
Crisply charred Brussels sprouts, are mixed with sour zucchini pickles. Piri piri, avocado crèma and carrot hot sauce dress the hefty bowl with layers of tanginess. Later in the day, Piquant chile crisp, sesame and the same avocado crèma dresses the Brussels in a new flavour jolt.
The earthiness of roasted beets is highlighted with aplomb. Tender wedges of the root veg sit on Middle Eastern inspired garlic sauce, delicately dressed in pungent chermoula. Rings of sliced pepperonci, and crumbled corn nut dukkah add a satisfying spicy crunch.
Cauliflower arrives roasted on a bed of puréed white beans. Chimichurri, and pico lend Latin flavour, transforming the vegetable with pops of fresh herbs. Two onion rings garnish the elaborate plate.
Meatier dishes are outstanding too. Hot honey electrifies fried chicken on a golden waffle. Zucchini pickles and chermoula add vibrancy to the sweet and crunchy indulgence.
Artfully arranged slices of smoked and charred short rib luxuriate in a pool of rendang curry beside a dollop of potato mash. A fine onion salad punctuates the bites.
Light pistachio whipped cream layered atop mille feuille makes a delightful ending to a memorable meal.
