The Ace

What is The Ace? Occupying a lovingly preserved 1950s diner storefront on Roncesvalles Avenue, The Ace is a neighbourhood gastropub led by husband-and-wife duo Rafael Badell and Maggie Stackpole. The narrow dining room features vintage wood panelling, cozy vinyl booths, an intimate bar counter, and warm lighting. It holds a well-earned Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction for delivering top-tier comfort cooking without a shred of pretension.

The Ace Menu & What to Order Chef Badell brings his background as a baker to the forefront, with exceptional house-made sourdough and brioche anchoring both the brunch and dinner services. Daytime standouts include the duck confit and wild mushroom toast crowned with poached eggs, alongside a fluffy brioche French toast finished with seasonal fruit compote and whipped ricotta. By evening, the kitchen turns out elevated tavern fare like steak frites, seasonal pan-roasted cod, and the signature Ace burger served with hand-cut fries and craft local beer.

Know Before You Go Weekend brunch draws dedicated west-end crowds, making advance reservations a wise move to bypass mid-morning wait times. Evening service is slightly more relaxed, where counter seating offers a welcoming option for solo diners and walk-ins. The diner is readily accessible via the 504 King streetcar along Roncesvalles, with metered street parking available on the avenue and neighbouring side streets.

The Ace Menu & What to Order Chef Badell brings his background as a baker to the forefront, with exceptional house-made sourdough and brioche anchoring both the brunch and dinner services. Daytime standouts include the duck confit and wild mushroom toast crowned with poached eggs, alongside a fluffy brioche French toast finished with seasonal fruit compote and whipped ricotta. By evening, the kitchen turns out elevated tavern fare like steak frites, seasonal pan-roasted cod, and the signature Ace burger served with hand-cut fries and craft local beer.