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- Hours:
Mon-Wed 11:30 am - 11 pm
Thu-Sat 11:30 am - 1 am
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Late Night, Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Trendy, Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
81 reviews for Wvrst
Review Highlights
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"The duck fat fries are outstanding." In 23 reviews -
"Fries and dipping sauces were yummy as well." In 14 reviews -
"I was a bit skeptical of the concept--sausages." In 28 reviews
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81 reviews in English
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Review from Mariko M.
4/30/2012
Checked out Wvrst w pal this past Saturday night. We arrived at around ten o'clock and it was quite packed. Let me forewarn you. It gets quite loud so if you're planning a night full of conversation, go elsewhere!
I'm not a fan of sausages so I had french fries w curry and chive dipping sauces. The curry was 'meh' but the latter was delish. Fries were super tasty and plentiful. With my fries, I had the Thornbury cider. The drink menu is pretty extensive w labels that you don't often see in other restos.
I'm a fan. -
Review from SuperwomanEats L.
Toronto, ON
5/10/2012
Game meats, Sausages AND beer?!? OOoohhh YEAAAHHH!! But please pronounce it correctly. It's "verst", not "worst" (drives me insane!).
Came here a while back, but still remember it like it was yesterday. Located in the hip and happening King St. West of downtown Toronto, it undoubtedly carries the loud and fun atmosphere... especially on a Friday night. It was packed and difficult to find a table. There is no host, and is a semi self-served restaurant, where you order at the counter/bar and a server will bring you the food and drinks. You can choose to sit at the high tops by the window, or at the long communal tables in the middle.
We just walked up to the glass meat fridge to take a look at all the different wursts this place has to offer. I was super excited! After a billion years of INdecision-making, I finally ordered at the counter beside the the sausages:
Kangaroo Wurst w/ fine herbs: $9 (3/5 stars)
It was very good. I got a side order of the curry wurst sauce, which is a tomato curry for dipping ($4). The sauce itself was mediocre- very strong tomato flavour with a hint of curry powder maybe. Definitely way over-priced especially if you consider that it came in a small little plastic container.
Venison w/ dijon & red pepper: $9 (3/5 stars)
Had this on a toasted bun. It tasted good, but it needed some kind of sauce.. like mayo or ketchup or something. Because you share the condiments with other people at the table, we had to go to the next table to grab some. Nothing too spectacular.
Duck Fat Fries: $6.50 (5/5 stars)
This was probably the hi-bite of the night! Who doesn't like duck fat anything?!?! But what made this ultra delicious was the side of maple rosemary dipping sauce ($1) to go with it! It's 4am, and I'm craving fries now...Mmmm. I wish the sauce came in a bigger portion though.
Beers: (5/5 stars)
There was a German beer that I really wanted to try (forgot the name), but they didn't have it! But overall, a pretty decent selection.
Service: (2/5 stars)
I understand it was busy, but they did nothing but bring me food and checked up on us once (sort of). I wanted to ask for something, and they just whizzed by giving me no chance.
This place was very loud on a Friday night, and was almost impossible to have a conversation across the table without having to yell. Most of the people here are for the beer and grabbing a bite, as oppose to having dinner. I've also noticed one of the giant tables were reserved for a party coming in, so I guess they do resos.
The food is okay, but I'd definitley come back. I'm dying to try to duck sausage, which is supposedly the best one! Which one is your fave? -
Review from Ashleigh Max W.
Toronto, ON
4/18/2012
I like Wvrst. I go about once a week. I like going at lunch time because it is way more chill then the super loud, awesome crowd in the evenings. That's my preference.
I am still surprised that my favourite sausage is the chicken and artichoke because I thought to myself, "chicken in a sausage is such a cop out." But it's not. It is delicious and moist and the bun is worth breaking my regular gluten-free diet for.
My husband loves the beer selection, they serve some really REALLY good cider. (I'm hooked on Stowford Press now).
The staff are super friendly, knowledgeable about the products (beer and sausage both) and make kick-ass recommendations.
Oh, and the restroom is clean. Amazing.
MORE WVRST PLEASE. -
Review from Heather W.
Etobicoke, ON
4/4/2012
Have been here once, had the Boerewors sausage, fries and dipping sauce (maple/rosemary, chipotle). Pretty good, but I've gotta say the dipping sauces were the most flavourful of the foods I ate. So while I've had better sausages, I like the idea of this place a lot. Loved the beer list, too. I'd like to go back again and give a few other menu items a try before completely denouncing or falling in love with the place.
Also, be prepared for a lot of noise, so don't think you're going to be able to have drawn out conversations here. -
Review from Cyrus T.
Toronto, ON
3/21/2012
We went to Wvrst for the first time on Friday night. I was drawn here because they offered curry wurst, which is something I adored eating while in Berlin. I ordered a chicken and turkey curry wurst and my date ordered a duck sausage on a bun (only onions for the topping, as recommended by the staff). We also shared the duck fat fries, and a Pellegrino. My sausage was a little meager on the serving size, and the flavour/texture was okay, nothing outstanding. The curry ketchup was excellent but the accompanying single slice of bread was nothing spectacular. We were quite disappointed with the duck sausage, which was bland and the onions did nothing to enhance the flavour. The duck fat fries were also disappointingly a little soggy.
I enjoyed the cafeteria style seating, but it was busy and very noisey. The crowd was young and hip. This is not the type of place to sit and chat leisurely - more so, a quick bite kind of place. Service was quick and friendly.
I definitely like the concept of this eatery but this isn't somewhere I am keen on visiting again. We spent $30 for our meal which I thought was sub par in comparison to the cheaper, better tasting, more substantial curry wurst you can grab on the streets of Berlin. An interesting experience, but only once. -
Review from Behrouz M.
Toronto, ON
2/16/2012
This place got sausages of all types and shapes!
Pork, chicken, beef, lamb, duck, rabbit, bison, even KANGAROO!! Paired with one of their excellent selection of beers, plus a side of their mouth-watering duck fat fries and you're in heaven! But there's more to this place. The decor is very pleasant, inviting, and friendly.
I don't want to say no more because this is one of those places you've got to experience for yourself. Bottom line, this is one sausage fest i'm always looking forward to! 4.5 Stars!
Food: A
Service: A
Food presentation: A
Atmosphere: A+
Prices:B+
Recommended? YES! -
Review from Natalie T.
East York, ON
2/26/2012
I guess the term "meat market" would be appropriate here. In a good way! All I'm saying is that I mouthed the phrase "how you doin" across the bar and it worked! (and it was a BAD hair day too. No make up...you get the picture).
VIBE
1. I'm not 24 anymore so to wait in line as a solo for 20 minutes to get into a beer hall? Come on.
2. It wasn't that balls to the wall. They played the hockey game in here and it's a good boisterous loud energy. Exactly what you think a Toronto version of a beer hall would be. Conservatively rip-roaring.
3. I really like the subway tiled walls and the font displaying Wvrst. Smart!
4. It's a great set up: communal blonde wood tables, a place to order the sausage in the back and a bar on the side. Plus, smaller tables for smaller parties if you don't like the long table vibe. Smart design!
5. It's very late twenties here. I like it! There are a few cuties here too. It's great if you are in a group. I wouldn't come on a date here, however. Unless you want your date to leave you!
I ATE/DRANK
I was fed pilsner. You can also get some mighty steins. It's pretty cool.
I was also hungry, so I had the traditional bratwurst. It was good! The bun was fresh and toasty and they don't skimp on the sausage. It's a good deal for about $6-7.
I was eating someone else's fries. I wish I got them! The sauces to go with the fries were tempting! Though I did wish they had sauces for the wurst. That's just me though.
OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK
I'll have to come back for the curry wurst and more fries. If only to satisfy a good friend of mine in Berlin.
Group date? -
Review from Lynn C.
3/9/2012
When I watched all the suits come out of this restaurant, I was a bit worried. Am I underdressed? I was a bit relieved when I got in and saw that the tables were all benches and you order and pay at the front like regular fast food.
I got the Calabrese sausage ($6) in currywurst style (sliced and drenched in curry tomato sauce with a teeny tiny slice of toast). The sausage was a little dry, and I had way better currywurst sauce in Germany. This was too acidic and not flavouful enough.
Beyond that the service was good, people are friendly, the bar on the side and the ambiance is probably what makes this restaurant succeed. Dark inside with Christmas looking lights and loud music--everyone is good looking and happy. The bar on the side is the icing of this King West Vibe.
Maybe next time I come I'll try something less safe. -
Review from Justine H.
Toronto, ON
1/25/2012 1 Check-in Here
Restaurant: Wvrst
Cuisine: Hot Dogs
Location: King West
Address: 609 King St W
Price Range: $10~15
1: Poor 2: OK 3: Good 4: Very Good 5: Excellent
Food: 3
Service: 4
Ambiance: 4
Overall: 3.5
Extra information:
*Communal Tables
*Exotic Meats
*Vegetarian option Avail
*Lots of beer option
Wvrst is pronounced Verst. Yea, I know, I was super confused too and refused to call it by name- insisted to say that hot dog place. Hot Dog place is def understatement when it comes to Wvrst, located on King St West next door to Lou Dawgs (need to visit) and Lee Restaurant (need to visit also) Wvrst is known to serve good beer and exotic sausages.
Wvrst has been on my list for awhile but it took me awhile to visit because noone wanted to visit this 'hotdog' restaurant with me, when they could grab hotdog for $3 infront of Sears at Dundas Square.
Once I walked in, girl working behind the counter greeted me and handed me the menu, explaining how you order at the front, pay and then take a seat where they will bring you food. I already knew how the system worked at the restaurant, but it was nice of her to explain.
I read on couple blogs how this place could get super crowded and noisy- but I wasn't worried because we were going on a Tuesday night. There was Leafs game on, so couple tables were a little loud getting caught up in the game but it wasn't too bad.
Inside the restaurant is quite dim, with lights hanging from the ceiling. With their communal wooden tables, long bar by one wall and seats by the window, I really liked the overall atmosphere of the restaurant. It was very laid back, yet not too casual with consistent theme throughout the restaurant.
Ordered: Bratwvrst on a toasted fresh bun 4/5
*Served on a buttery white roll with 2 toppings (Sweet sauteed Onions & Sweet Peppers) for $6
*This is made with Veal, Pork and Wine
*Sausage is fresh (not those typical processed meat sausages from grocery stores)
*Bun was just soft enough to wrap up the sausage but hard enough so that toppings didn't fall through
*It was a good hot dog, but I didn't see anything special about it
*There are 4 different types of sauce (ketchup, mustard, etc) that you can use on the table
*I expected the sausage to be juicier but it was kind of dry
*The Hot dogs are not very big and 1 will not fill you up if you have a big appetite!
Ordered: Duck sausage on a toasted fresh bun 2/5
*Served on a white roll with 2 toppings (Sweet sauteed Onions and Sauteed Jalepenos) for $9
*Made with Maple and Foie Gras
*This was one of the popular picks amongst many reviews that I've read prior to the visit
*The sausage is same size as the Bratwvrst
*Very distinct smell to this sausage (you can def tell it's duck and there is foie gras in there)
*Sausage is very soft and has buttery feel to it (like foie gras, or even mashed up liver)
*Sauteed jalepenos helped to get rid of the strong scent
*I usually love foie gras, but I didn't really enjoy this hot dog
Ordered: Duck Fat Fries 2/5
*Small french fries for $4.50
*We ordered small, but their fries are big in portion
*Picked Wvrst Spicy dipping sauce (made in house), it's basically mayo with sriracha sauce
*Simple flavors for the dipping sauce, but it was delicious
*This duck fat fries are raved about left and right all over reviews online so I was excited to try them
*They weren't served very hot which was surprising to me
*The fries were def rich in flavor and had creaminess to it
*They are soft french fries but I prefer crispy ones
*Fries were decent with the sauce, but I didn't think they were anything special
*I think St. Louis Wings, Big Smoke Burger or the Holy Chuck Burger has better french fries
I thought about trying one of their beers, but I wasn't really in the mood to drink. So I went with Aranchiata Orange (yum!) They have a small station next to where you make your order- to grab water or forks and knives.
Summary: This is always an issue when I read too many reviews or hear good things prior to the actual visit. I end up expecting way too much from the restaurant ( I do this to myself) and leave somewhat disappointed even when the food was actually alright. Personally, I don't think I would go back to Wvrst for their hotdogs- if I do go back, it would only be for beer/drinks. -
Review from EatingoutT O.
Toronto, ON
4/24/2012
Locally sourced meat, affordable prices & a communal atmosphere makes Wvrst a great early or late night spot. Try the duck fat fries.
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Review from Elaine K.
2/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
I'm so happy that i finally checked this place out.
I came with a friend on Monday night and we split a small fries, a wild boar sausage and a kangaroo sausage. No currywurst since she hates curry.
I loved the kangaroo sausage. The rosemary was a bit overpowering, but it was very flavourful and juicy. She liked the wild boar better since it had more of that sausagy bite, but I found it a bit dry and heavy on the cilantro. It was still delicious, though. The buns that housed the sausages were incredible. Crispy and buttery on the outside, soft on the inside. The fries were pretty good, and I really liked the chive mayo that came with it.
I also really liked the atmosphere. It was pretty dead there the night we went, so we had almost the whole place to ourselves. I really liked the seating and the lighting. It felt like we were somewhere else.
I found the menu and choices a bit confusing since i'd never been there before, but the person at the counter was a huge help. The self-serve water was a nice touch, too.
The food came out quickly enough, and all the staff we encountered were very friendly.
I'll definitely be back! -
Review from Evelyn W.
12/17/2011
Okay. This place is really cool in most ways.
Duck fries are fabulous. To me a sausage is a sausage is a sausage, so I'm not going to comment on their main dishes, because it wouldn't be fair. This is a sausage joint, and it is obviously good at being such.
The service had some weak moments. I asked the bartender to surprise me with a beer, something German that I'd likely never had before. He gave me a Pilsner Urquell. Say what? Pretty common beer, that is just a high price point.
Also, there is a female server who was just rude rude rude the whole time. She was the wvrst. We had a theory she was a vegan and really hated it there. She rolled her eyes when asked about her favorite things on the menu. Come on.
Puns aside, this place really is a sausage fest all around. A little too 'Bro' pronounced 'Bra' for me at the end of the night, but what can you do.
Love the giant steins. -
Review from Chris K.
Toronto, ON
2/28/2012
Wvrst had been on my list of places to check out for a few months and I've recently had a chance to go a few times.
As other reviewers have pointed out, they've got some exotic meats (yes, kangaroo) and the place is inspired by iconic beer halls in Munich. Obviously, the place is nothing like an actual beer hall in Munich, but it's still a fun layout, especially if there's a mix of welcoming strangers at a table, that is a bit unique to Toronto.
Despite all of the options, I usually stick with the bratwurst (served in a bun with a heaping of sauerkraut, jalapenos and red/yellow peppers) and small fries. The bratwurst is good and doesn't taste that different than the bratwurst you'll find in Germany. Any time I've had it in Germany it comes alone, or with a slice of rye bread or a tiny bun that only fits a quarter of the sausage (without the jalapenos and red/yellow peppers, of course).
The regular fries are standard. If you get a dipping sauce, avoid the plain mayo and opt for something with some flavour.
What I dig about this place: the selection of imports in 1L beer steins and the vibe on a game night. -
Review from Benjamin C.
Etobicoke, ON
4/1/2012
Had a bratwurst currywurst style with double meat. Portions are tiny. Tasty though, but not 'oooooh' tasty. Was ridiculously overpriced, especially since it's all self serve. Typical King street markup. Great beer selection, but better off going somewhere else for it.
-
Review from Reynold P.
Toronto, ON
1/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
The Wvrst Restaurant in Toronto!
I believe that ground animals are indeed a good thing. The more foreign the animal, the more intriguing and likely I will order it. Wvrst does this. They offer the "coolest" selection of sausages you can find.
Kangaroo, Guinea Fowl, Duck+Fois+Maple, Rabbit, Venison, Pheasant, etc.
There are tons to choose from, on a bun or curried.
I had my Duck sausage with kraut and onions on a bun. However I did hear wonderful things about the curried option, which i will definitely try next time. Along with the sausage were my duck fat fries. Served with a side of rosemary/maple sauce. The combo is addictive. I would go back just for the fries, they are crispy, salty and delicious.
Their Wall of Beer is cool too. Probably over 10 taps sticking out of a wall beside the ordering counter. You can't miss it, its wide and stretches across end to end. The hall style restaurant/bar was very welcoming. I like this layout a lot and I can imagine holding larger parties here, reservations made two weeks prior at least.
Overall, the spacious layout and friendly atmosphere welcomes meat/sausage lovers to expand their horizons. The variety is more than enough and the fries are the perfect compliment with the beers on tap. Imported for your pleasure, just like their meats and foodcentric ideals. -
Review from Danny T.
North York, ON
2/6/2012
We went to WVRST just last Friday after work with a few friends. It was my first time at WVRST and one of my friends suggested we go there early to beat the crowd... Man was he rite.
Located conveniently on 1.5 floor (not exactly the second floor but you do have to climb a few steps) at King/Porter (next to LEE) you cannot miss this place. The decor reminds me of GUU and WAGAMAMA (UK) 1/2 service--You do have to line up at the cashier to place your order and the food will be served to you when ready.
Back to the food..there're only 2 choices: CURRY SAUCE or BUN. With the curry sauce, the sausage will be sliced topped w/ their signature curry/tomato sauce served w/ bread on the side. With the bun...well, it's just a bun...
Along with the shallow 2 choices came a variety of meat and the options are endless. (they also serve game meats like duck and venison and rabbit and they don't suggest you mix game with curry) there're also 2 types of fries.. regular or duck fat! I ordered both to see the difference and the result... not much. the duck i find has more flavor to it and not as crispy as regular but after the different types of sauces and ketchup that comes w/ the fries... you really can't taste any difference.
Overall impression... WVRST is a good pre-party dinner/drink place on a Friday nite and prices are not overly expensive but be sure to get there early on weekends.
PS - I'd suggest putting the curry sauce on the side. As great as the curry sauce is...if you pour the entire sauce on the sausage... you will not taste the sausage.
PS2 - If you're a beer drinker (who isn't?) order the 1 litre mug... lining up again (although they have a bar that serves alcohol) is just a Biatch
PS3 - Although not mandatory, a $5 tip is greatly appreciated by the staff. -
Review from Patrick M.
Toronto, ON
12/17/2011
If Wvrst has a failing, it's that their choice of doing one thing exceptionally well will inevitably result in them not being able to please everyone. Listen, if you don't love sausage and beer, don't bother going.
I'm rather surprised to see so many people complaining about price, but there does seem to be a common theme. Yes, some of their beers are pricy... but I can only assume it's because they're offering boring choices like PBR, Beau's and Stiegl* at higher price points to subsidise the reasonably priced microbrews and rare-ish imports they have on tap. If you are ordering PBR, guess what: you deserve to be charged entirely too much money for your ridiculous hipster affectation.
(* I actually quite like Beau's, but it's a very safe choice amongst quite a few inspired, lesser-known beers that you should be trying instead.)
As for the sausages being overpriced, c'mon, really? $6 is too much for a gourmet sausage? When McDonald's is charging what now, $7 for a horrible not-burger with a side of nasty-fries? A street-meat dog is what, $4? I am flabbergasted that I can get sausage of this quality in Toronto for a mere $6.
Anyway, enough of that, here's some thoughts:
* Boerwors is good, wild boar is very good, and Bison is out-of-this-world good. The spicing and flavour is well layered through the meat, with little bursts of awesome laced throughout.
* The kangaroo I had was a dude -- it tasted of that powdered Italian seasoning your grandma uses... I can't help but wonder if it was a mistake, so I'm not judging them on the misfire. This time.
* French fries, as many have said, are excellent. We had 'em "dirty". Only complaint would be that the jalapeno was cut too chunky for our liking.
* The cafeteria style ordering and table delivery is refreshing and fun. The runners are incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, fast and, as a consequence, well deserving of your tips despite what Bryan G. absurdly suggests.
* The bartenders are the best I've experienced thus far in Toronto. Seamlessly efficient, on the ball, personable, genuine, generous and, in turn, appreciative.
* The handshakes. Yep. The handshakes. I received handshakes from a runner, both bartenders, the door man, and three random, friendly patrons. I mistook the door man for a helpful patron, at first, and suspect he's likely much more than the title I've given him (I hope I am not doing him a disservice -- he was a true gentleman). In an era of hands off, disaffected douche bags and barely-there service, I cannot express how much I appreciate the hands-on approach of Wvrst.
To say I loved Wvrst is an understatement. They've provided one of the best experiences I've had out in this city. Great sausage, amazing beer list (subsidised by the masses!), top-tier service, and genuine class. I'll be back. -
Review from Oliver B.
Toronto, ON
1/28/2012
Disclaimer: This is a first reaction based on an evening of drink.
As a place to get something to eat near the end of an evening of drinking, Wvrst blew me away. I tried the Wild Boar and every bite was so delicious that I savored it like there'd never be another one to eat. That being said, I had to scrape a bit of the onion off as it was pretty heavily daubed on, but there are worse things in the world (i.e. Rob Ford).
It was a bit loud, but being there with just one person I could manage fine without going hoarse. I have to wonder about a bunch of friends trying to talk over the ambient noise/the long, cafeteria style tables, though. Anywhere you can barely hear your company better have a dance floor otherwise it just feels like you're paying to stare at each other while drinking and chewing.
The lighting setup looked so good I wished I'd had my camera on me and I'm always a sucker for any restaurant above ground level with tall windows. The general color scheme was pleasing as well.
For a first visit, I was pretty impressed and I'll definitely be coming back for a better sampling of the menu, the drinks and the atmosphere. -
Review from Mary C.
Richmond Hill, ON
2/3/2012 4 photos
Inspired by Munich style beer halls, Wvrst opened mid last year in the Toronto King West area, serving up some exotic sausages and a wide variety of beers. I've been wanting to try this place since it opened and luckily I was able to find someone who was yet to have tried it. Thanks for coming with me Justine H! In a nutshell, this place is like Oktoberfest, and now you can have it everyday at Wvrst!
Wvrst definitely has flavours of a European sausage and beer hall, and really reminded me of Oktoberfest (except nicer). It's spacious and dimly lit with with ceiling strung lights --a casually comfortable place.
Wvrst Menu
Scattered around the hall tables were these long sheets of recycled paper which would be the menu. If you're looking for something other than fries, sausages, and alcohol, you're probably at the wrong place. The menu is simple, but the numerous options lie in the type of each you fancy.
At the back of the establishment there is a long open space that leads up to a rather small counter where you order and pay. I imagine this empty space is filled up by a line up during busier lunch hours. It wasn't too bad on the Tuesday night that we went.
Sausage Display Case
The display case is neatly organized with all the different sausages that they have. If you're in the mood for some exotic meats, then you're in luck. They have everything from kangaroo to venison, rabbit to guinea fowl. Justine H and I weren't too appetized looking at it, but after we managed to get over its appearance we went up to the counter to order.
Drinks
They have quite a number of beers here, bottled and on tap. Definitely not as many as a place like Beer Bistro might have, but more than just your commonly seen brews. Justine opted for the San Pellegrino Orange, and me an Austrailian beer Stiegl. Figured it was only fitting that I had a beer in the given setting!
Bratwvrst ($6) -Veal, Pork, and Wine
Duck ($9) -Maple and Fois Gras
These contemporary European sausages for the most part were quite good. Juicy and full of flavour. Didn't feel like I was eating a super artificial chunk of meat like I do having hot dogs from street vendors. In terms of flavour, I think it really depends on the sausage you order. You could definitely taste the fois gras in the Duck sausage, which was something Justine H didn't enjoy too much. I didn't mind it and found it to be an interesting combination, but I definitely liked the Bratwvrst more. I'd like to add that these sausages are quite small, and even with my small appetite I was unsatisfied having just the one hot dog.
Duck Fat Fries ($4.50)
Lots of other food enthusiasts raved about these fries, so we ordered a serving to share. Perhaps it was the heightened expectations from all the amazing reviews, but these duck fat fries fell just a bit short. They were full bodied, thick, and buttery, but they just weren't amazing. To be honest, I couldn't differentiate what difference the duck fat had on the fries compared to the ones made in regular oil. The order of fries comes with one dipping sauce, and the Wvrst Spicy we chose was great. Definitely not the best fries I've had, but they are quite tasty still, and would easily satisfy those random starchy fry cravings.
One last thing to note, is that they are big on leafs games here! They have a ticket giveaway at around 6:30pm the night of every Leaf's game at the Air Canada Center. With TV's all around the dining hall and tables that encourage conversation, it would be a great place to go catch the game along with a couple of drinks. But be warned, it might get pretty rowdy later in the night with cheering Leafs fans who've had a couple drinks or two! -
Review from C.B. S.
Toronto, ON
4/3/2012
This place is a "sausage fest" and by that I mean that's all that's on the menu. There are plenty of sociable young women there if you thought I meant something else.
If you have no ethical problems consuming Kangaroo sausage, and aren't hanging with easily-offended Vegan friends, this is the only place I know of in which you can try it. However the Wild Boar sausage is tastier.
Toronto still needs a real German restaurant, but this is a fun place to drink litre beers, in a modern atmosphere. If you find the Guu Izakaya restaurants, which are similar in atmosphere, fun, you will like this place. If you find the izakayas "loud" or "annoying" this place may not be for you. -
Review from Roger B.
Toronto, ON
1/28/2012
went on a friday around 7pm... be warned, this place gets busy! They apparently don't do reservations (though several tables had reserved signs! Perhaps you need to know someone?!?). trying to 'save' a table for friends running late will result in severe 'cut eye' from others trying to find a seat.
But space issues aside... Wvrst is one of the Best.. Food is very tasty, and not too badly priced. I'd recommend the duck fries vs. regular fries (worth the extra buck or two for taste and crispness). I had the pheasant sausage on my visit... it was quite nice though nothing particularly remarkable (what does one expect from pheasant though!).
I found the beer menu a bit over priced, but I give them credit for the variety of interesting brews.
This is more of a 1hr eating stop vs. a 3hr dining experience... so be warned.... it should be part of your evening vs. your plan for the evening.
My one wish (if Wvrst is reading)... would be for them to offer a group platter. perhaps 4 different sliced up sausages, some frites in the middle, a few toppers on the side, and skip the buns. ie. Allowing people to taste a variety of sausage options vs. having just one specific 'hot dog'.
I also wish they offered a simple desert (apple Streudle perhaps, sticking with the German theme).
That said.... they know what they do... and what they do, they do well! -
Review from John M.
1/16/2012
Hi All!
The wife & I are back in Canada to visit friends & family, and found this very neat "Beer Garden" restaurant nestled in the West End of King Street. The beer hall atmosphere and the range of pleasing sausages, and amazing duck fat fries really hit the mark! The portions of food are good and are more than enough to fill. The view of the kitchen is clear with no obstruction so you can see your food prepared. I like that kind of transparency in my food preparation. The place is clean.
I love the bench style seating which only further greases the social connectivity. There is no over bearing music, nor the constant din of 4,000 TV screens tuned to a myriad of sports events - just awesome beers - awesome food - and an awesome atmosphere. You can catch the Leafs though, when they are at home - and there is even a raffle for Leafs Tickets for that home game. It is also a slight departure from normal dining, where like a beer garden, you walk up, place your order then shimmy on over to the next seat on the bench... Suds delivered almost immediately, and the food not too long afterwards. They have their processes on lock - so you can focus on what next interesting beer or sausage you want to try.
If you want a large menu with pasta & steaks, this is not the place. If you want a wide range of flavourful beer, some awesome fries and an amazing range of sausage & brats, get here now! -
Review from Avitania B.
Toronto, ON
10/2/2011 2 Check-ins Here
WVRST is the best sausage-fest in Toronto!
This bustling cafe offers a fine selection of meats in tube form, from your standard pork mixes to more exotic offerings like pheasant and kangaroo. My favorite is the wild boar, which is juicy and flavored with mushrooms; however, the traditional bratwurst (a mix of veal and pork, flavored with wine) is a close second. You can get your sausage served in a toasty roll, or do as the Germans do and enjoy it sliced and slathered in curry ketchup.
For those who have partaken in the awesomeness that is Hot Doug's in Chicago, the food is similar (down to the french fries cooked in all-that-is-holy duck fat -- which I highly recommend), but at Wvrst the decor is strictly King Street classy. The main drawback is that it's ridiculously noisy during peak times. You have to shout just to be heard, and chances are you'll leave with a hoarse voice. And service is s-l-o-o-o-w when it's busy. But the people that work there so friendly you'll forget about the 30 minute wait for your wiener (beer works wonders in making time pass quickly).
Despite the sore spots, Wvrst is still probably one of the best places to sample a sausage in the T-dot.
Note: Author takes no responsibility for any possible pun-itive damage to you, the reader, that was caused by the appearance of double entendre in this review, whether real or imagined. -
Review from Joanne W.
11/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
Kangaroo sausages? Yes please. Surprisingly not that gamey and had a perfect blend of spices. My friend and I also ordered the duck confit fries which were quite good -- but I'm not 100% sure what the difference is between the normal fries and the duck confit (perhaps I would have to try both at the same time to see the difference. As for my friend, he ordered the lamb. It was pretty good, but I preferred the kangaroo instead.
In regards to whether one should order the currywurst or on a toasted fresh roll? I would say to order the food on a toasted fresh roll if you're hungry; I felt like it wasn't enough just getting the currywurst.
Also, beer selection is great! I was craving for a good European beer, and they had it at Wvrst (my friend got a Stiegl, and I had myself a Gosser -- reminded me of my short vacation in Europe during May).
For a place that doesn't have waiter-service, their service is amazing (does that even make sense?). There were people coming by every now and then just to check up on us and to see if everything was fine.
I would definitely recommend this place for a nice snack and a drink if you're out on King West. Not only this! It's a non-swanky place to go to within the King West area -- which is needed. I feel like that area has way too many restaurants that are a tad on the expensive side with them looking down on you when you're walking in.
Decor, like everybody else said, are communal tables - Oktoberfest style. The funny thing is that it slightly reminded me of Guu with the incandescent lights placed on the top.
Would definitely come back here for another beer. -
Review from Jennifer M.
Toronto, ON
10/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am German. I grew up on sausages. In university I used to garnish strange looks from roomates with a veggie dog version of CurryWvurst, although with more heat and less curry. Plus, I add pickles. Yum.
Sausages were well priced at $6. I tried a bite or two of the SO's Kranjska (Pork and Margoram). I wish I had ordered a vegetarian sausage, but as I was not very hungry I didn't think I could polish off an entire one. The Veggie ones look interesting. Next time!
Lots of fun dips for the fries, some were better than others.. but very original flavours.
it is what is is. Beer, Fries, Sausages, Communal tables - and they do it well. The atmosphere is great. Decent prices. The only real negative was the "Flying Monkey" beer which was awful. -
Review from Rachael T.
Toronto, ON
11/23/2011
Don't think of this as a hot dog restaurant... think of it as an establishment with one of a kind meats that you may not be able to find elsewhere, in a sausage casing, served in a hot dog bun, with the option of jalapenos, peppers and sauerkraut at no charge!
I don't always get to see my good friend who's away at school so when he decided to meet me for lunch, I wanted to go somewhere unique. Thinking that this place had CROCODILE, I mispoke and actually meant kangaroo. Thinking to half splurge on one exotic meat, I was told why not to go all out - how often would you come back?
I have to agree to that one.
I was sooo surprised at how big the space is - restaurants nowadays have such narrow dining areas that I felt like 2 restaurants can fit into this space. There are long communal picnic tables seating... a lot. and about 4 - 5 high top wooden tables, sitting another 8 - 10 each.
The way it works is that you put your order in at the front, they give you a number, and you wait. if a huge line up comes in at once, the empty space would make a long queue. Luckily, we had no wait.
Our choice of meat:
1. PHEASANT
2. KANGAROO
with all the fixings.. and a small fries with one dipping sauce - we chose the house WVRST - which is similar to a spicy chipotle mayo. There is a huge case showing the different sausages available for the day, so if you are not convinced by the menu, just go see the real thing for yourself.
Our HDs were cut in half so we could each try a bit of the interesting meats. The pheasant was very flavourful with the herbs that were included. It definitely tasted different, but I am not sure if it lived up to the actual bird as I've never tasted it before. None the less, I'm glad I tried it. The kangaroo was a little tougher, more gamey, but also very tasty. It got super spicy at the end but it was evident that each sausage had it's interesting tastes and textures. I hate it when I'm told that I'm eating two different things, but they both either taste exactly the same, or tastes like chicken!
The ladies came by to make sure we were enjoying our meal, which is nice because it is essentially like a gourmet cafeteria. If it wasn't so cold or I wasn't working, I would've ordered a pitcher of beer like everyone else. Seems like they have some good alcohol selections (and non alcoholic sodas too).
This place is truly an experience... and at $9 a gourmet hot dog, it's worth trying ONCE. I have to say Japa Dog is still the most amazing tasting hot dog experience ever, but if you like things like fowl, boar, rabbit, and so on, then drop in.Listed in: King St W and Surroundings
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Review from Valerie G.
3/4/2012
Wvrst is the WORST!
Seriously, this is one of the most terrible experiences I have had and is compelling me to write my first online review ever. We visited on a Saturday night and were treated in a total disrespectful manner.
It is such a shame too because this place has potential... like the awesome Standard Bier Garten in New York... but I will never be a patron at this establishment ever again.
To start, my friend asked for the IPA Red Razor, which was on the menu. The bartender told her she was all out and reccommended another IPA. When we sat down, my friend did not like her reccomendation ("Worst beer I have ever had in my life") - which is okay, not everyone has the same likes/pallate, when we went up to talk to the bartender - they were completely unflexible and just said "Well EVERYBODY ELSE loves this beer" - insuinuating there was something wrong with her not liking it. In my opinion, because they did not have the beer as on their menu, and gave a reccommendation, it should have been a simple - "Sorry about that - what else can I get for you instead?" but we were treated in a way that left us walking away feeling insulted and belitteled. It is just not the way you want your guests feeling. We were upset.
After getting our beers, we went to the kitchen to get some food. It was 12:01. They refused to serve us as the kitchen was closed. Some flexibility would have been appreciated here to as if we had ordered food first, not beers, we would've been there at 11:50 when the kitchen was open. To add insult to injury, fresh, hot plates were coming out of the kitchen for the next 10 minutes so its not like the fryers were turned off or anything.
If you like unaccomodating, rude staff with zero flexibility and that talk down to you - go to Wvrst. If you want an unpretentious, good time with friendly, helpful service go to Bier Market. -
Review from Alana C.
12/8/2011
Had a great night here with my friends! Neat concept, good sausage AND fun times. BUT, as people have said it is REALLY REALLY REALLY loud so if you're trying to catch up (as we were) it will be a total fail. Also, it is really neat that you can sample beers before you order them.
Definitely a trendy spot right now - whether it will remain popular for long I don't know. Also, so of the people who go here are just plain jerks. But I was there, and I'm not a jerk so there is hope! -
Review from Taylor O.
10/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Wvrst was my choice for Birthday celebrations this year after reading all about it this summer from my fellow Yelpers Martin W, Matthew H, etc.
We had a large group and made a reservation which sort of worked, they printed out really cool signs and saved our seats for like 15 minutes then plucked the signs back up while half of the party was in line buying sausages and tried to squeeze other people in on top of our jackets. And our friends that were a few minutes late... couldn't come since they were at capacity so they had to wish me happy birthday by phone.
The line took forever but the staff at front were super friendly and great with recommendations. It took so long to bring our food I almost forgot we ordered, luckily I ate a pulled pork sandwich before I came. The Kangaroo sausage was excellent and the duck fat fries were good (though I've had better incarnations).
The bar staff was also super friendly, smiling and wishing me a happy birthday.
I know it's the cool thing to do to screw over people who don't drink beer b/c it's a German beer place but I'm gluten intolerant and charging me $48 for 4 tiny juice glasses of shitty wine is not what I consider an acceptable move.
Aside from the tables there's a small open area that's kind of an impromptu dance area and it was a lot of fun meeting some interesting people mingling around.Listed in: Carnivorous Canada
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Review from Viviana M.
Toronto, ON
9/25/2011 3 photos
Dining Experience: Lunch
Specialty: German-style Sausage Hall
Menu items: Bison, Wild Boar and Venison Sausages with Duck Fat Fries
Who is in for a sausage party? Well, the kind of party that involves food, that is.
Before we begin, let me educate you on the pronunciation of this place - read "Verst". And its exact English translation is non other than sausage (figures). This recently opened spot in the heart of King West has been successfully luring in lunch crowds. With its sausage hall concept, breadth of sausage styles and flavours and an impressive local and imported beer menu; Wvrst has quickly become a favourite in the area and the Friday lunch go-to place for most of us.
Their dedication to the core product, sausages; its one to admire. All sausages are freshly made on the premises and cooked when ordered. When you arrive at Wvrst, you right away notice a large line up of people (mostly men...I did say it was a sausage party) staring at the menu, asking the staff for advice and at times drinking beer while waiting in line. Because this is a sausage hall, once your food is ordered, you are given a number which then lets the waiters know which table to bring the food to. One thing you will notice is that because the line-ups are long, the waiters are extremely diligent in cleaning up the tables, so don't feel like they are rushing you, they are just doing their job and are very pleasant.
Now, lets talk about the product. From the list, my favourite is the Venison style sausage. Given that its flavour is more on the smokey, nutty and hearty side, it makes it a great pairing with just about any topping. You can choose 2 out of 4 toppings - Caramelized Onions, Sauerkraut, Sweet Peppers and Sautéed Jalapeños. The roll used to wrap these juicy meats around is something worth mentioning, being on the rather soft side, this roll is lightly sweet with a hint of sourdough style bread, a great choice. Note to reader: you can also order a whole wheat roll and choice of veggie or chicken sausage options.
Another one of Wvrst's hits is their Duck Fat Fries. Fried in duck fat as opposed to regular oil, the fries tend to be softer and buttery, while maintaining a great consistency on the surface. How this is done? A two step frying process. Double-dipping is what I would name this frying method. The outcome? Buttery and flavourful french fries.
But the goodness does not end here, on top of having great tasting fries, Wvrst offers you a selection of dipping sauces. My favourite, and one that I can not live without, the Mojito sauce. Dip your fries in it or add it to your sausage party, either way you in are in for a heck of a tasty treat.
Until next time Foodies!
Buen Provecho,
Viviana. -
Review from Chad M.
10/11/2011
I like this place a heck of a lot better when I'm drunk.
When you're drunk, you don't care as much about what something costs or how loud it is. The place is full of douche-assholes as well, which are also a lot more tolerable when you're hammered beyond belief.
I was at the bar, ordering a drink when a fellow came up and slapped me on the back saying "What are you drinking?"
I pointed to my hat. "Wine-hef-stephan or something. I can't remember. It's expensive though, around 14 bucks." I said. "Oh yeah? I don't care because I'm rich." he said. "Do you know any loose women?" (not the exact words he used)
This place is redonculously LOUD too.
GET OFF MY LAWN -
Review from Teena D.
11/5/2011 9 photos
After Gord and I saw a movie, we walked to Wvrst on King Street W for supper. It's the first time I've been there ... Gord's been a couple times.
There was hardly anyone when we got there about 5pm but it filled up rather quickly.
The layout is quite simple ... rows of long communal tables and chairs and seats at the bar.
It was quite busy. People would leave and be replaced with others.
They have a lot of interesting beers, both on tap and in a bottle. I had a couple Beau's Lug Tread Lagered Ale.
You have to go order your own supper at a separate counter and pay for it there. There is quite a choice of sausages ... traditional like beef, pork and chicken, to game like duck, wild boar, rabbit and kangaroo.
I ordered a Kranjska sausage (pork and garlic) in a bun ... it was $6. Gord ordered a duck sausage (maple and fois gras) sausage and onions in a bun ... it was $9. So sausages aren't cheap. We split an order of large fries ... we had curried dipping sauce (which I liked) and black pepper and onion dipper sauce (which I didn't like). At $5.50 for fries, they aren't cheap either.
My sausage was good ... really juicy. Gord said his was okay, not great. He liked mine better.
They give everyone a couple raffle tickets. At 6:30pm, they give away a couple tickets for the Maple Leafs' hockey game ... alas, we didn't win.
I liked it there and would go back. My big complaint is that it's really LOUD there. Gord and I were sitting across from each other and we had to practically yell at each other to talk. -
Review from Linds B.
2/3/2012
Just did a meetup with about 70 American and German expats at WVRST! We had an awesome time! Everyone loved all the different kinds of sausages (my elk was delicious), and the duck fat fries had them swooning. There was also much discussion of how amazing the beer selection is and how there were many beers on tap that you can't get anywhere else in Toronto. (Try the Church-Key Peat-Smoked Scotch Ale. Ahhhmmm yum yummmm noommmm yummm. Sooo good!) Food and drink aside, you've gotta love the atmosphere in here. It's cool, yet friendly and open and inviting. The communal tables encourage you to get to know your neighbors, and there always seems to be lots of beautiful people to watch. The lighting is excellent. This is the perfect place for a casual evening with good people, good food, and good beer. What could be better than that?!
Listed in: Good for Groups
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Review from Jen C.
10/10/2011 5 Check-ins Here
This is a modern beer hall with shared wooden tables and benches stretching from end-to-end. Touches of brushed metal and a deep-red subway tile complete the look. And Wvrst looks great. Also, their food is pretty damn tasty too. AND a great tap selection (of course!) curated by one of the main Beer Bistro kids.
With a long list of sausages from an impressive number of animals, I chose the kangaroo, boar, and a regular sausage. While I can't say I'd ever be able to distinguish the various critters I consumed, I can say they were all pretty good. I guess my tastes are pretty pleb though, as my favourite was the Kranjska, loaded with hot peppers. Perfect with a cold, refreshing beer.
Prices are pretty decent for the area and I could see coming here for lunch. Toppings are fun too, but I'd suggest you get them pretty naked if you want to taste the meats. If you want to get creative with toppings, I'd go with a plain sausage and doll it up as you like. While the space is great for groups, don't expect too much group conversation happening. It get really noisy. -
Review from Martin W.
I ate a very delicious and filling sausage here with Vivek S and was pleased with my experience. There wasn't a line up when we ordered but it was a slow process because of all of the options available in terms of type of sausage and beer (they have a large selection of both). I just asked the friendly and cute waitress what was good and went with her recommendations. I got an order of duck fat fries with two very delicious dipping sauces as well.
The venue is really cool with huge ass wooden tables and benches in a big rectangular room. I guess this is what a sausage house looks like in Germany. I did find the service a tad slow considering it wasn't really that busy when I was there but the food was so yummy that it was forgiveable.
I would love to bring some friends here to check it out again. Not fancy eating but quite yummy. -
Review from Leeor J.
8/13/2011
This place is all hype. Not sure what I was expecting really, since i've had currywurst in Berlin and wasn't impressed there. Ketchup with some curry powder thrown in.. revolutionary! The worst part is how expensive it is. You pay like $6 for that. And its just a small sliced up sausage with the ketchup drizzled on, accompanied by an anemic toasted rye bread slice. The duck fat fries were meh. nothing special.
On the positive side they do have a decent beer selection. It includes most of the german wheat beer exports you'de expect (Weihenstephaner, Hacker-Pschorr, etc) and some good local brews like Beau's. But again, expensive. I think I paid $7.25 for my beer. A bit steep.
I will say this place would probably be fun around Octoberfest. They've got the picnic tables, its a huge space, and the good beer. We'll see if they stay in business long enough for that :P -
Review from Chris P.
This was the wvrst lunch I've ever had!
Sorry, had to get my pun in there like everyone else.
I came in on a Saturday afternoon to find the place fairly quiet. I didn't know how things worked so I just pulled up to a bench and waited. A staff member came over and explained that you have to order at the counter and they bring your food out to you.
After perusing the menu I took Sarah L.'s suggestion and went with the Curry Wvrst. I also went with the staff member's recco on lamb for the type of wvrst. I piled on some duck fat fries and topped it off with a pint of Weihstephaner.
While I was waiting for my meal someone came over who identified himself as a photographer for the Toronto Star. He was doing a story on the restaurant and asked if I would move over to the next bench so he could include me in some of his shots. I gladly obliged.
After a short wait my lunch arrived. The meal was delicious. I definitely recommend the curry. It was tomato-based which went well with the wvrst and the fries. The fries come with a dipping sauce so my choice naturally was the Wvrst sauce. It had a nice tang to it but wasn't as spicy as I would have liked.
Overall a really great experience.Listed in: The best of YYZ, Meat Love
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Review from Cameron O.
Toronto, ON
8/1/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I want to give them 10-billion stars for the duck-fat fries alone.
17 kinds of ground animal, a multitude of delicious craft beers (and even PBR, which is $10 for a litre) and the fries... the fries! THE FRIES!
I only wish the beverage re-ordering process were easier than going back into the queue.
First visit: Rabbit
Second visit: bison
Third visit: venison
Fourth visit: I think I'll try the 'roo. (yes, the kangaroo)
I live so close! They have fulfilled all of my tube-steak hopes and dreams. -
Review from Monica F.
11/18/2011
Great place to go for drinks after work. A solid 3 and a half stars.
If you get there before 6:30 you'll absolutely find a spot to sit. After 6:30 is when the crowds come and the lineups start.
I think I've seen every type of demographic you can think of in this place! An older couple having a date night, Chinese gangsters, bankers, etc... everyone loves a good sausage!
Last time I was there I enjoyed a couple glasses of delicious cider from a little town called Thornbury....where my boyfriend and I had been fishing the previous week!
I've had both the duck fat fries and the regular fries and cannot honestly tell the difference. Friends say they can, and that the duck fat has a "richer" taste. *Shrugs* I was perfectly content with the regular ones.
All in all, a decent spot. I know I'll be back for sure! -
Review from Linda M.
8/26/2011
I've been curious about this place ever since the first review came out, so I'm glad I was in the neighbourhood at lunchtime - rare since I don't work downtown. I like the style of the place, with the long picnic benches running the length of the area. And it was a lot of space! The service was great, very helpful for a newbie like me. I decided to go simple for my first time, and ordered the merguez lamb sausage with sauerkraut and pickled jalapenos. On the side, I had a small order of duck fat fries with chipotle dipping sauce. Yep, I like things spicy! Made all the better by the fact that they have a self-serve cooler of ice water. Unfortunately it seemed to be all ice when I tried to use it, but the bartender kindly came over and filled it for me.
My meal was served to me fairly quickly, and I was happy to see that I got two sausages in the bun because they were on the smaller side. The bun itself was lovely, I believe a ciabatta? I could be wrong, but it was fresh and delicious. The sausages were a bit spicy on their own, so with the jalapenos I was glad I had the fries to cool my mouth. The flavour of the merguez was fantastic, a really tasty sausage. The fries too were great, although I'd like to compare to the regular fries to really see the difference. The chipotle sauce was the perfect compliment to my meal, especially since I tend to find chipotle more sweet than spicy.
All in all, a nice atmosphere with very friendly staff, great sausages and fries, the only drawback is that it's a little on the pricier side ($13 for everything) but for something so unique I'm willing to fork it over.
I'll definitely be back, and I'll be bringing people with me!
