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Hibiscus
Categories: Restaurants Vegan Restaurants Vegetarian Restaurants Gluten-Free Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free [Edit]
238 Augusta AveToronto, ON M5T 2L7
Neighbourhood: Kensington Market
(416) 364-6183
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 11 am - 6 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
46 reviews for Hibiscus
Review Highlights
"They've got homemade vegan ice cream (yum."
(in 20 reviews)
"Soup and salad combo and green tea ice cream."
(in 8 reviews)
"They also have crepes on the menu, which are great."
(in 20 reviews)
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46 reviews in English
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Review from Melissa Y.
Toronto, ON
1/28/2012
This place is really amazing. Unpretentious, simple, delicious food. I started frequenting Hibiscus after a month long exam period where all I was eating was greasy Chinese food from Chinatown or the Chinese trucks at U of T. It was really a refreshing change to have a nice soup + salad combo, I felt like it just brought me back to life. One word that I think describes this combo is hearty (and yummy). Their salad is great, with about 7 ingredients, it's not just a regular greens salad with dressing. There are lentils, broccoli, avocado, beets, tofu... and more, and it is full of flavour!!! I've only ever had their butternut squash soup here and I loved it (but there is rarely a soup I have come across that I don't love). I've also had their crepes here, and while these are also good, I find them to be pretty small and lack the value that you get from the soup + salad combo.
Service is spectacular. Everyone that works there is just so genuinely nice and super attentive. The atmosphere is warm, comfortable and just...peaceful. In the afternoons, it tends to get quite a bit of sunlight, so a seat by the window is definitely key.
Fun (creep) fact: Daria Werbowy has been seen at this spot.
Go here please, you won't regret it. -
Review from Blair M.
12/28/2011 10 Check-ins Here
I'm a huge fan of Hibiscus!!! whenever I'm craving a nice fresh hardy salad and delicious soup on my lunch break this place is what calls my name. They also have some great vegan crepes which I have tried a few times but I still keep going back to their awesome soup and salad combo which is perfection in my eyes.
This place is a great find in Kensington Market -
Review from Howard H.
8/19/2011
This simple unpretentious micro-restaurant is a fantastic spot for veggies and vegans to bring their omnivorous friends. Not because of the availability of animal products; just because they wont actually miss them!
Hibiscus was on my list of spots to take my BVF when she was in town and I had planned for that to be my first time trying the restaurant. Fate intervened in the form of a fairly random meeting with someone from U of T who, as a vegan, suggested it for coffee + desert. The selection of sweets was quite impressive for such a diminutive establishment; there were about a dozen different varieties of sweet crepes, a nice assortment of dairy-free ice cream, and a reasonable selection of baked goods. While the crepes all sounded good, I am a sucker for high quality pistachio ice cream. Wow! This wasn't a mere simulation - this stuff was excellent - full of pieces of nuts, just the right balance of sweet and savoury and a shockingly luxurious mouth feel considering the absence of dairy. One bite moved them to the top of the BVF list.
Took the BVF here a few weeks later and she was an instant fan. We each had the mixed salad which was beyond excellent. Seriosuly, I don't know what they do to it, but it transcends mortal salads. Vegan Schmegan - it's worth going if you even remotely enjoy salad. We both had crepes - I went for wild mushroom - she for concentrated sweetness. Both were excellent and defy logic - how do you get light fluffy crepes without eggs? Thankfully, they know. Of course, we were too full for desert.. but had some anyway. Yes, ever the creature of habit I had the pistachio ice cream again and it was still great. She had an assortment of ice cream and was REALLY impressed.
We spent a bit of time chatting with one of the owners as we settled up - this is really a passion project for them and it shows in every bite. He graciously offered us some baked treats - date square and cookies - which we took to go. OK - We ate them in the damn taxi, happy?
Perhaps the only negative is the service. While quite pleasant and attentive, it can exceedingly slow. If you've got to be somewhere at a specific time (theatre) you either want to give yourself a head start or (regretably) chose another venue. The other is availability. This is a really small place - 5 tables. You could wait awhile just to get in...but it is so worth the wait.Listed in: Vegan Goodness in the GTA
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Review from Lulu l.
North York, ON
1/9/2012
Homely is one word to describe Hibiscus. I really like the food and atmosphere of the place. It's not a cheap to eat there but it's worth it.
I only order crepe combo but I'm sure other items are good too.
One downside is that the cafe is small lol .. I wished they had more tables and space ... -
Review from Sara K. P.
Toronto, ON
7/31/2011 ROTD 9/26/2011
After a day of much medical query and blood extraction I fled the scariness of hospital row and darted for the safety of Kensington.
Thanks to Yelp and my recent efforts to try and eat sensibly albeit deliciously, I was lured to the quaint confines of this exotic little flower of a cafe called Hibiscus.
It is an adorable little nook of a place, and makes you feel like you're hanging out in your cool vegan/gluten-free friendly Japanese (which I think the owner's are) exchange student friend's kitchen. The service of course is uber-pleasant and expedient as I have the menu explained to me by the really polite staff.
I decide to order the vegan buckwheat crepe which is brimming with mushrooms lovely fanned tomatoes and yummy vegan cheddar. The crepe shell itself is very flavourful as I detect a herby pesto-basil textured ness about it not to mention it's sheer heft! Yes this crepe is $9, but I still had to doggy-bag it as it was mammothly delicious! Yay leftovers,
I love-em!!!
I was a little perturbed that it was excruciatingly hot inside, which is no fault of Hibiscus, as this is Kensington, where air-con is indeed a rarity. But still that did not take away from my satiety, even though I was a nearly bloodless creature upon arrival, I felt like my life force/manna was fully replenished without a hint of meat...wow!
Next time you're in Kensington and feel the urge for something other than Chinese or Mexican (Chexican?)
Get your veganese on at Hibiscus...it's blooming great!!Listed in: Mouthgasms :D
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Review from Zoe R.
7/31/2011
Been coming here for years, and have now introduced some other friends to it. Their positive reactions proves that Hibiscus is still on the right track.
I looove their mixed salad + soup combo. Perfect in any of our 4 seasons.
I love this combo so much, I usually don't stray from ordering the same thing, over and over... I can't find anything like this meal, anywhere else.
Green beans, tofu, carrots with dressing, lentils, beets, sweet potatoes... you can request whichever ones you wish. They have about 7-8 to choose from. The soups are usually one that's sweet potato/squash-based, or one that has a beet/tomato-y base. I like them both, but my friends didn't love the beety soup so much. Said it tasted like beets, go figure.
Under $10, and you'll maybe leave feeling comfortably full - but definitely you'll leave feeling guilt-free.
Service was fab, btw. Genuine and gentle humble service, with a smile.
If you have a sweet tooth, there will be many gluten-free, and spelty baked goods to choose from. One of my fave items is the peanut or almond butter (semi-crispy) rice squares. -
Review from Ziyi C.
Toronto, ON
8/19/2011
Reasons why I return to Hibiscus:
Soup + salad combo (homemade soup, and signature salad bowl)
Dairy free ice cream (black sesame/pistachio are my personal favourites)
Sincere genuine service
I have never felt rushed or unwelcomed here. Very accommodating to dietary restrictions/substitutions (e.g. soy, gluten allergies)
Great place to have lunch or non-alcoholic drinks with a friend, read a book, or takeout.
The food is vegan, tasty and flavorful. Don't expect to get salad with a bed of lettuce or spinach, or canned artificially flavoured soups. Instead you get homemade cup of soup and a bowl of goodies + cracker made with love. They have gluten free snacks like brownies/cookies/bars. Buckwheat crepes (great alternative somewhat stiff chewy texture)
Random notes:
Small place, so expect tight spaces when busy (people who don't want their conversations heard may do better elsewhere), especially on weekends
Décor is homey, shelves can be dusty
Not for close minded carnivores
There is one small washroom, where you enter through the kitchen
Prices on menu are tax inclusive, great prices, I usually go up to the cashier to pay
Credit/debit friendly -
Review from Caroline W.
Scarborough, ON
7/18/2011
Walked in because I heard good things about the ice cream.
Hibiscus is a small place, with maybe 5-8 or so tables inside and 3 outside. It feels a bit cramped, but it's cute. It looks to be a good place for a date.
The ice cream was amazing- I tried the pistachio and chai masala. It's dairy-free, but I didn't even miss regular ice cream after trying it here. The pistachio ice cream was full of nuts, and the chai masala had a nice flavouring of spices. The spice got a bit overwhelming at one point, but I could counteract the effect with the pistachio being mixed into it.
It's reasonably priced for a good sized portion, $4 for two scoops; $2 for one (tax included).
I didn't try anything else on the menu, but from what I could see there were a lot of crepes, and some soup and salad options. It's a small menu, but I'm definitely coming back here to try something else. -
Review from Dishan W.
8/2/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I've severely cut down my meat intake for the past few weeks and it's going a lot better than I expected. A part of that "going great" feeling is obviously attributed to the fact I've been spending a lot of time in the Kensington Market area and Hibiscus has played a big role on my lunch diet.
I was meaning to try a crepe before writing my review, but with some time to kill now I decided to jump for it anyway. The soup and salad combo is such an amazing deal, it's not crazy cheap but for the money you get such a filling meal. I had it for work one day and it lasted all the way till the evening and I mean in terms of actually still eating it at 5pm just because I found it hard to finish it all in one go, and it makes for a great spoonful snack while working.
I love Denise's comparison to it being like a bibimbap dish because that's what it reminded me of as well. Great ingrediants and very helpful staff.
I admit I was a little loss when I first walked in as I didn't know where the line up started/ended or if I should order first or pay or even what my options were as the menu cards were hidden from my sight.
It's a tiny place so don't come looking for a sit down meal as there won't likely be any space.
I know this review was basically me going on about how good their salad and soup is, but I tell you, it's worth it!Listed in: Walking Around Kensington…, This is Me Trying to Eat…
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Review from Ana W.
5/24/2011
My inspiration to making better vegetarian dishes. I'm not Vegan or vegetarian.
I love the ambiance. It's an eclectic mixture of furnitures in one tiny space.
I can't stress how I used to dislike salad, but Hibiscus inspired me. It doesn't have to be the boring greens with dressing. I loved their salad. It has so many levels of flavour and texture. It's filling if you order the full size.
I'm a huge fan of crepes too! I didn't even know there was such a big selection until I saw the menu. I ordered two savoury spinach, tomato with cheese and apple walnut crepe, with a side of salad along with a sweet banana, nutella crepe as dessert. It's so fresh!
Be sure to eat your crepes fast, so they stay crispy, rather than have it turn chewy. I shall be back for more... -
Review from Laura C.
Toronto, ON
Brunch on a rainy Sunday afternoon with friends. We were able to get a seat in the small place at 12 but after 1pm it got super busy.
They have a hearty soup and salad combo. Today it was leek and potato soup: thick, pureed and served with a crunchy something that was really good.
The crepes were really good but hit and miss depending on the flavour. The tomato, goat cheese pesto was amazing but my banana walnut maple syrup was a little dry.
We didn't get a chance to try the home made ice cream but will be back for sure.
The coffee was meh and a little watery. I would say this is a lunch rather than a breakfast place.
We'll be back, but come early to get a seat! -
Review from geraldine g.
Toronto, ON
4/4/2011 2 photos
Surprise of my year thus far!
Meat eating people, please read!! I confess that I am nowhere near being a vegetarian but when you have a partner who is vegetarian and in need of gluten free food - well, it expands your culinary palette.
So, would I have gone to a place with non-meat otherwise? Hell, no! But after trying the food here. I have changed my mind.
I had a fantastic crepe that just happens to be good for all you vegetarians and gluten free folks. It was a buckwheat crepe with mushrooms, spinach and mozzarella. Cost $9.00. The only thing I can say I wanted on that is more cheese but that's just a preference. Otherwise, seasoning was bang on!
My americano was alright! Good enough to make my meal better than the usual accompanying coffee with brunch. I would order it again.
What blew me away on top of that deliciousness was their ice cream made of mung bean paste. I couldn't believe it! It tasted so good! This has to be one of those aha moments of wonder. I had no idea that a bean could make ice cream. i loved it!
On top of that, customer service was excellent. Helpful and friendly despite how busy this little place is. -
Review from Jack W.
Toronto, ON
5/19/2011
Not a vegan or a gluten-free person here, but a true omnivore who will obviously go where the food is good, and it is good here.
The Salad Bowl - a composed salad of about ten different salads put in one big bowl, served with a wonderful crispy appley cracker. The best and most filling salad I have had in forever. I'm going to have this again. Often.
Chutney and Cheese buckwheat crepes - so. Tasty. My husband ordered these with a side salad and he let me eat some. I am going to get this next time for myself because dang. Cheese and soba and chutney... what could be better?
They were out of leek and potato soup when we got there (about an hour before closing time) which was somewhat sad, but we made up for it by getting two peanut-buttery squares to eat later. This was an exceedingly reasonable meal - Giant salad, crepes, side salad, lemonade, and 2 squares came to $31 before tip. And we were full for a good long time after. Definitely a place to revisit. =) -
Review from Val G.
5/19/2011
One of my favourite places to grab a vegan/gluten-free brownie or a fruit smoothie.
The menu isn't huge, your choices consist of soup, salad or a crepe. All meals and combos are under $10 so it's very affordable. The staff are almost entirely Japanese and very friendly. They're also super attentive and great at refilling your water. The food is fresh and the owner can often be seen leaving the cafe to go buy produce.
My one complaint would be the furniture. It's almost entirely cheap Ikea patio furniture and park benches. My friend and I shared a bench and our table was a skinny console table. The bench was wobbly under the weight of the two of us but the console table, which faced out towards the street was actually kind of cool. Like being a floating bar without a wall or window directly on the other side.
I would suggest they move the patio furniture outside, where there's a dirth of seating and find some indoor, non-wobbly, non-swedish furniture for the cafe.Listed in: Vegenomics
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Review from Rose W.
Toronto, ON
5/31/2011
Today, my partner and I went to Hibiscus for lunch for the first time. It was busy, but we got a table. The place isn't large, but with high ceilings, a big window out front and a sunny day, it didn't feel too cramped.
The service was sweet and prompt! We had biked quite a bit before lunch, so we drank a lot of water -- our glasses were usually quickly filled. We both ordered the salad and soup combo, the soup was a squash soup. The salad was the star though! Tofu, beets, yams, chickpeas, lentils, pinto beans, avocado, carrot, green bean; it came at a nice cool temperature (it was like 35 C with humidex today). There is definitely an asian influence to this salad, soy, and sesame oil were flavours I definitely tasted. It is the best and most original salad I've had in a while, my partner agreed.
We shared a scoop of coconut-mango ice-cream, it was pretty good for a non-diary dessert. I didn't taste much of the coconut, but the mango flavour was subtle and certainly tasted of *fresh* mango.
Nice ambiance and servers. For a meal under $10, we were served quickly and had a leisurely meal, staying for almost an hour (unusual for a restaurant in this price range). Hibiscus is the most-cus! -
Review from Cyrus B.
Toronto, ON
10/19/2010 1 photo
This place is unbelievable. Been here three times and can't wait to go back a fourth.
I'm the type of guy who considers a slab of meat the centerpiece of my meal. Hibiscus shakes up my worldview. On the edge of Kensington off College, it's quite tiny but we always seem to manage to get a table without waiting more than a couple minutes.
They serve incredible vegan and gluten free crepes, and the gingery squash soup is to die for as an appetizer. Going to try the soup and salad combo next visit, as it seems like a bargain, just like everything at this restaurant. A filling lunch for two with a kombucha and dessert came to $30... impressive.
The dessert squares are quite healthy and very rich... peanut butter and chocolate is a favourite. Found the pistachio ice cream to be a bit flavourless but I'll give their other flavours a shot sometime.
Overall, totally worth dealing with the crackhead who jumped in our path and yelled "BLEHHH!" to come here once more. Even better to walk to Moonbean and enjoy a coffee afterwards.
Next time I hear "vegan" and "gluten free," I won't be so quick to judge. Hibiscus delivers on all counts with super friendly service and phenomenal food. -
Review from Joanne S.
Toronto, ON
2/10/2011
Went alone for a quick pre-classes lunch. Soup and salad combo and green tea ice cream. Total was $11 something. I was really full and satisfied. Nice little cafe setting, probably the brightest store/restaurant in Kensington. Will return :( and remember to tip the next time too.
Service:
Best service in Kensington Market. Courteous, quick and friendly. At the end of my meal, as I was paying, I asked the man at the register a question. Even though I interrupted him (rude, I know!), he still calmly explained to me that the "milk" used in the ice cream depends on the flavour.
Food:
Organic Butternut Squash Soup - I wish the serving was bigger so I could just dunk my whole face in. But when paired with the salad, it's perfectly filling. And delicious. And creamy. And orange, who doesn't like orange?
Salad Bowl - I asked them if they could please not put any tofu in it, and instead of just saying yes :O they took into consideration that I might've meant soy. And I did, and they did not put any soy produce into my salad bowl. The textures were just so great, the quinoa was lightly minty and the cranberry added a sweet chewy bite. Broccolli and green beans shared the same flavour and were crisp. Carrot slaw? was really delicious. The chickpea and pulses were also very good and meaty.
Bonus: that nice little cracker thing is nice - sweet and nutty and manages to be both chewy and crispy.
Green Tea Icecream - CREAMMMMMMMMMMY, served in a cute little bowl with a cute little wooden spoon.Listed in: Lunch Time Escapades
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Review from elffie t.
Toronto, ON
1/3/2011
Wow, this place is great.
I had their vegan ice cream and a bowl of home-made soup, for like 6$. It blew my mind. The portion of vegan ice cream is quite large for a very good price. The soup is well seasoned, chunky, and both were served in funky ceramic containers. The service was fantastic - the servers were fast and friendly, but also personable, joking around with me and my friend. The only weird thing that i encountered is that the washroom is kind of in the back near the kitchen and it feels as if you're using the staff's washroom and that you're not really supposed to be in there.
Oh! There's also a super cute patio out front which is delightful and very pleasant for an afternoon. I think this would also be a good "date" place. -
Review from Xioux Xioux X.
11/8/2010
I took a day trip to Toronto from Buffalo by bus. The terminal was not very far from Kensington Market so I walked around there for a few hours. This might have been a weekend because there were vendors in the street, although I could be wrong.
I saw this quaint cafe hidden by a big tree from the road. It didn't look anything special from the outside, it just looked small and cozy to me. I went inside and saw a few tables, and only a couple left unoccupied. I ordered a crepe and tea. I do not remember exactly what kind I ordered (this was in 2007) but I remember being so comfortable there that I stayed for more than an hour. I was by the window watching the world outside.
I pulled out my journal and started to write. The vibe inside was very nice, very relaxing. The music wasn't as loud as my thoughts, and everyone seemed to respect the faintness.
I visited Toronto for a day, walked around Kensington Market, and had lunch here. No CN Tower, no tourist places. Just this neighborhood alone, was enough to make me want to go back and visit Toronto again. -
Review from Denise S.
8/24/2010
LOVE this place! This is where I go when I've been eating out too much and feeling guilty and in the mood for something filling and healthy.
Not a lot of seating, so not a suitable place for big groups (like, more than 4), but very warm and inviting.
The salad is like a delicious take on bibimbap -- a little mix of everything. Why hasn't anyone thought of this? Quality ingredients with tons of flavour. Quinoa, sweet potato, marinated tofu, green beans, shredded beets/carrots, lentils... So. Much. Protein! Felt really full afterwards. Probably the most satisfying salad I've had in ages. The gluten-free cracker it comes with is so tasty! I also got the soup of the day, which was a delicious squash soup with chunks of various veggies. Also amazing! I don't know what they are putting in the food to make it taste so amazing... At most places, usually it's butter... but here it is something else and I can't put my finger on it!
I tried a bite of my friend's walnut, pear and brie crepe. Classic combo done to perfection.
And the ice cream... My 2 friends and I each tried a different flavour: masala chai, earl gray, and mango coconut. Personally, the mango coconut was my favourite! But the other two were really yummy too.
I have already gone back for take-out. Staff are friendly and efficient.Listed in: An Apple a Day...
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Review from Anna K.
Toronto, ON
11/28/2010
This is my FAVORITE cafe in Toronto for lunch. It's located right in Kensington market.
First off, they always play extra soothing film scores (I've heard the Lord of the Rings a few times now) and the atmosphere is so calm and relaxing.
The best (and most unique) thing on the menu is the Soup and Salad lunch combo. Their salad bowl is a mix of different cold gluten free, vegan and all natural vegetable salads. It's cleansing and so tasty.
They have a wide variety of Numi teas and Vegan, Gluten free deserts. Seating is limited for lunch hours (probably because it is so popular) so I would say getting there at 11 when they open or after the lunch crowd at 2 or 3 is best. -
Review from Eric F.
Calgary, AB
9/27/2010
Another plug for the soup and salad combo!
My soup was the squash and ginger, and the "salad" is probably better described as a "bowl of vegetarian goodies." Their quinoa is delicious, and the tofu/beets/lentils/carrots/sweet potato make for a great combination of textures.
Tiny size means even seating three people can be a stretch, but makes for personable service.
Sadly their hours are really only conducive to lunch, which brought me to King's Cafe (http://www.yelp.ca/biz...) one tragic evening. They're not even in the same league!
$10 for one person. -
Review from Samantha B.
7/14/2011
I love this place! It's a cute little cafe in a great location (Kensington Market). The furniture makes it feel very cozy, and they always have interesting reading material to keep you occupied while you're waiting for your food. The crepes are absolutely delicious. Even my friends who aren't vegetarian or vegan agree.
And they have a wonderful, friendly, polite, and pleasant staff. The service is very quick as well.
And everyone should try their raspberry (dairy free) ice-cream. -
Review from beth p.
Toronto, ON
7/29/2009 ROTD 8/4/2009
The salad bowl here is AMAZING. I kind of hate ordering salads at restaurants, because you look at it, and can identify everything pretty easily, and basically why not make it at home? The salads at Hibiscus are not like this - they fill a bowl with 8 or 9 different (non-leafy) salads. Beet salad, carrot salad, soy paste, sweet potato salad, broccoli, beans, quinoa, tofu - really amazing. Everything tastes super fresh and wonderful (probably because of the sesame oil). The large salad is enough for a meal and costs something ridiculous like $5.75. You can add a soup (usually puréed and pretty delish) for another $1.50, I think. Basically, it's an amazing lunch deal.
The crepes are also out-of-control. I recommend the cheddar and chutney, it is wonderful.
The shortcomings at Hibiscus aren't so bad: the hours are not great if you have anything to do during the day (like work), as they close at six, ish and aren't open on Sunday. They also put this weird eggplant pesto in all the savoury crepes, it tastes pretty good with most of them, but should probably be left out of the brie and walnut combo... The quinoa isn't the best, but everything else is pretty unparalleled.
The owners are basically the nicest people I can imagine running a restaurant. I used to go get lunch specials on Bloor or College, but I pretty much only eat lunch out here now. -
Review from Brian C.
Toronto, ON
5/24/2010 1 Check-in Here
Vegetarian dishes are usually easier to tolerate than vegetarians but this isn't the case here. The menu is limited to salads and crepes which is hardly a creative use of vegetarian cuisine.
Service: My girlfriends salad arrived 5 minutes before my $9 basil, tomato, and goat cheese crepe.
The Food:
Crepe: Rather than being a dish, the crepe consists of separate items on a plate. First you eat some heavily peppered tomatoes followed by a bushel of basil, then a tablespoon of goat cheese wrapped in crepe. If it were any worse I would have punched them for insulting me.
Salad Bowl: Very good.
Just because you are a vegetarian doesn't mean you can only eat soup and salad. Having a one hit restaurant doesn't qualify you for the 4-5 stars this place is getting. Are vegetarians so hard up in Toronto that this passes as quality? -
Review from Kat F.
5/22/2009
Do you like fresh, yummy crepes? If you're vegan, you probably don't get to enjoy them that often at restaurants, but Hibiscus in Kensington Market makes sure you're not left out at the party. With fifteen filling combinations that include fresh, seasonal fruit like kiwi and strawberries you really can't go wrong. At lunchtime the order process was a snap but the subsequent table service was unfortunately slow.
I ordered the plain vanilla and cinnamon crepe, which came adorned with strawberries, kiwi and thinly sliced gala apples. The crepe was dusted with a light sprinkling of cinnamon and nutmeg. It was just the perfect amount of food for a nice snack-sized lunch.
Hibiscus also sells veg-friendly magazines that you can borrow to read while you dine inside. Charmed, I'm sure. -
Review from Cisi Z.
Toronto, ON
7/25/2010
Yessssir, four stars for you Hibiscus! A definite 'Yay! I'm a fan.' :) I'll definitely come by some time again to try your salads, crepes and whatnot!
On a beautiful Pedestrian Sunday afternoon, my friends and I awkwardly entered this new (to us) establishment because I had read the raving reviews on yelp and convinced them to try the ice cream, :D.
The atmosphere was warm and bustling. This little place was packed with barely any standing room. But no matter! We were immediately attended by Kaoru who graciously waited and took our ice-cream orders. This turned out to be the perfect place because one of my cohorts is deathly allergic to peanuts - we were glad they were completely peanut free, :).
I got the Coconut Raspberry as well as the Black Sesame. Yuuuum. Both of which weren't too sweet and had a lovely after-taste. Also tried the Mango which was especially flavourful and the Chocolate brownie was nomnomnom. Yes. It. Is. Good. They make their own ice-cream.
Two scoops makes four dollars. Three for five. (One for three.) The waffle cone was deee-lish. Crunchy and /not/ stale! Not sweet, good texture and it held its form. However, if you get the ice-cream in a cup the serving is larger! By A LOT! ;D -
Review from Tammy Y.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 7/17/2010
Finally got around to having lunch here, and it is just as wonderful as their ice cream. Their soup and salad combo is phenom and great value (about $9) - the salad bowls are a composite of what's fresh in their kitchen that day with nary a cheapo ice berg lettuce to be found, all served with a fascinating raw cracker. Soups of the day vary, and on this hot summer afternoon the choices were between a chilled melon soup or housemade miso.
My friend went for the crepe, which did come, as we were warned, with quite a wait time, so if you're in a rush, avoid the crepe options. (Albeit, it is definitely worth it if you have the time, or at least some good company to whittle the time away with).
Service, friendly and homey. Atmosphere is cozy. Lots of people swinging in for ice cream on the go or for pickup. Food is excellent. My favourite summer food destination of 2010.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/28/2010
Stay the hell away from their ice cream. This is definitely not the best ice cream in the city. This… Read more »
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Review from Nicole H.
Toronto, ON
Hibiscus hits a spot that many little (or not so little) veg places around Toronto can't - a simple offering of healthy salads and soups, but also a great range of decadent crepes, dairy-free ice cream and baked treats (cookies, slices & the like).
I had the salad bowl and daily soup combo, with a raw cracker. What a winner: filling, fresh and flavoursome for a good price (just under $9) - and a great variety in the salad bowl, more than i've seen anywhere else (greens, grains, tofu and veg - the lot!). This combo is more than enough to fuel your weekend wander around Kensington Market. I capped this off with a generous scoop of 'chocolate brownie' ice cream in a small wafer cup ($3) which I wish had just gone on forever and ever. There's a fantastic range of flavours like i've never seen on offer anywhere else with vegan ice cream - definitely on my list to try are the green tea and black sesame.
There's an impressive selection of crepes on offer (although the crepes are vegan, there seem to be quite a lot of cheese fillings on the savoury side of things) - I think the crepes would be something i'd make a deliberate stop for rather than something to have after the salad/soup combo.
The only downsides are the limited seating and the limited opening hours. But you can bet i'm going to make this a regular weekend stop!Listed in: Toronto Veg Eats!
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Review from lucinda k.
Vancouver, BC
7/26/2010
Yum Yum Yum Yum...
I've been coming here for about a year, and I must say I have been impressed every time:). 5/5 for wonderful servers/owner, 5/5 for ambiance, but most importantly 5++/5 for food from the lovely salade bowl to crepes to the-best-ice-cream-i've-ever-had-and-it's-even-dia ry-free!! I even once sat next to a celebrity here (Rachel McAdams right before Sherlock Holmes came out~ no I didn't talk to her, I was taken by the food, and I let her enjoy her meal with her friend :) ).... Honestly one of the best restos in Toronto, and I'm not even a vegetarian. -
Review from Roanna Z.
6/10/2009 2 photos
Hopscotching through Kensington Market, we came across Hibiscus, walked in and were greeted so nicely and invited to sample some Dark Chocolate, (Fair Trade, organic and upwards of 70% Cacao.)
ooyahhh!
Then I was given a tour of the totally yummy looking Non Glutenous treats of which I bought:
1 rich dark Chocolate Brownie
1 Lemon Poppy cookie
1 Chocolate Chip, Chocolate cookie...
because you can never have too much of a good thing :-) -
Review from Mia Z.
Toronto, ON
2/5/2011
awesome!!! I could eat these salads everyday! The soup is also delicious and the crepes are great (huge though - we always share). Always very shocked at how cheap the bill is and the prices include tax which I LOVE
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Review from Helen L.
Toronto, ON
8/8/2009 1 photo
After reading all these rave reviews, i just had to go and try this place! The restaurant was on the small side as they only had about 20 seats in total but it is really cute and looks like a tea/coffee shop.
I had a salad and soup combo ($7.50) and we got a bowl of all the different kinds of salads they had that day and a cup of squash/lentil soup. I loved the fact that there is a variety so every bite is different and you never get bored. There were so many kinds of salads: quinoa, tofu, broccoli, beets, sweet potato, string beans and chick peas. All of the salads were tasty without being so saucy you can't taste the vegetables. I believe if you had a favorite, you can choose to just have one salad instead of a little bit of everything. The pureed soup was a great accompaniment to the salads and I liked the fact that they serve it in mugs so it is easy to drink.
Hibiscus offers a vegan and gluten free menu. My boyfriend often has digestive issues but had no problems after eating at Hibiscus. They also have soy ice cream that you can eat in or take out. Next time I am in the neighborhood, I'll be sure to stop in for some soy ice cream. Will definitely be back soon. -
Review from mondayjane s.
Toronto, ON
6/3/2010
Hibiscus is GREAT. The food is prepared and presented with such simplicity and care. It's a sweet little place, the staff are so kind and accommodating and the excellent prices oughta make Fresh's blech $12 Warrior Bowl run whimpering back to the barracks.
I highly recommend the soup+salad combo with Kombucha to drink. Delicious, highly nourishing and satisfying. I can't believe there aren't line-ups for this little Kensington gem. -
Review from Lauren T.
Toronto, ON
7/2/2010 1 photo
I am a changed vegan now that I've found Hibiscus. If only it were open on Monday's too... that's my day off! The people (or family) who run this place are the NICEST ever. I was in heaven eating the salad bowl. I love all the variety and taste it contains. The raw cracker is amazing! I have only been once, but I plan to go back again and again. I want to try all those gf, vegan baked treats. I've tried 4 so far... a pumpkin chocolate brownie, a peanut butter chocolate bar, a dark chocolate cookie, and a rice crispie square. OMG!
Hibiscus also serves up a few gf, vegan crepes that look intriguing. Those will be on order for next time. Definitely check this place out if you want an inexpensive, healthy, guilt free lunch or early dinner. That's the only other disappointment other than the Monday closing... that they close by 6:30 pm. That's too early for dinner! -
Review from Alexandra D.
1/13/2010
I haven't had a chance to try the crepes*, but the soup and salad special is filling, delicious and easy on the wallet! Best of all, it's the kind of meal that will leave you feeling really healthy afterwards. I can't be sure, but I suspect eating the salad deal may be equivalent to half an hour's worth of exercise.
The atmosphere is cozy and relaxing, like Helen noted, it looks more like a tea shop than a restaurant. The selfish side of me is worried that this place will get too popular, since seating is definitely at a premium. But nevertheless, you will definitely win brownie points with your veggie friends if you introduce them to Hibiscus.
*To be honest, I'm not sure I'll ever get a chance to try the crepes, the salad combo is just too good! -
Review from Isabella L.
Toronto, ON
8/26/2010 3 photos
I tried the basil, tomato,mushroom and spinach crepe, along with vegan dark chocolate and banana and hazelnut crepe, earl grey ice cream, and butternut squash soup and salad special.
Everything was just delicious and not to mention nutritious! The crepe was STUFFED with fresh ingredients. The portion was very big. (9$ tax inc.) The sweet crepe was good, but my only concern is that it was very rich due to the overwhelming amount of chocolatey goodness. I personally didn't like the hazelnuts, it was sort of an extra topping. The earl grey ice cream was yummy too, but it had a sandy texture to it. I'm neutral towards it. The flavour of the earl grey was light and refreshing. AND finally, the closing act. The soup was not fully smoothe, but with some chunks of squash (which is what I like). It was full of flavour and colour. As for the salad, just absolutely amazing. HEALTHY and just full of different flavours/textures. In the salad, there's beets,tofu,long beans, squash, quinoa, beans, broccoli, tomatoes, fake cheese and to compliment it all, a sunflower,apple & other stuff cracker. Overall, everything is absolutely lovely! -
Review from Connie T.
Toronto, ON
1/15/2009 1 photo
Whenever I seek a massive health injection, I go to Hibiscus. Perhaps it's just a placebo, but whatever -- the vegan joint is my doctor, and a trip there does me wonders.
I usually go for their soup and salad special. Most recently, for $7.50, I got a cup of mushroom-fennel soup, a cracker made of sunflower seeds/dried zucchini/dried apple, and a large bowl of mixed salads, which included a scoop of awesome quinoa mixed with parsley and cranberries. Yum.
The place has a very tea-house sort of feel, and if they're busy, the staff gets a bit frantic, although always extremely pleasant and helpful.
Plus, those vegan brownies are all kinds of muh-muh. (And that's a good thing.) -
Review from Sarita A.
Toronto, ON
11/14/2010
Try the gluten-free brownies - they are amazing!!! Not your usual gluten-free treat! Very nice service and everything is gluten-free if you or a friend has gluten allergies and/or is vegetarian.
Cute resto to sit down after your Kensington shopping or to take a friend who has never been to the Market before that's more quieter. -
Review from Candice E.
Toronto, ON
4/8/2010
The other reviews really have it covered - Hibiscus is amazing! Great vegan/vegetarian and gluten-free-friendly food at very affordable prices. The soup + salad deal is the best lunch in the city. You get a mug of their freshly made soup (always vegan) and a bowl of their salad. And when I say salad, I don't mean a bunch of wilted greens on a plate! No, their salad is a mixture of many other salads - quinoa, beans, carrots, seeds, beets, tofu, and all kinds of other great stuff.
They also have crepes on the menu, which are great. And they're happy to substitute ingredients for you if you want. Most of the savory crepes are not vegan as written, but it's easy to just ask them to leave out the cheese or sub-in another vegetable. They're happy to accommodate.
The staff are also very friendly and not pushy. I've seen many people go in there with laptops to get a little work done while they have lunch and then sip a coffee or tea for an hour or two.
They also have what looks to be amazing, vegan ice cream. I admit I have not tried it yet but everyone else who I've seen order it seems to really enjoy it.
Absolutely worth checking out, even if you're not vegetarian or vegan!
