WVRST, located at 609 King St W., about a block east of Bathurst on the south side.
This place is located upstairs (not at ground level), so it's just a few steps up the stairs. But once you enter, it's a hall vibe. Nice and spacious with two rows of long tables and long benches.
My party of guests and myself were very thankful to get the corner (the right hand side to the entrance) to ourselves. It was a big square-like table and the bench that circulates around the table.
Personally, I thought the highlight of our seating area was just something very simple but yet very warm. The restaurant had this set up on the table for us. I thought it was really thoughtful. A custom printed table card. Thank you!
The resto works on a self-serve system. You take a look at their menu and place your order with the cashier. She will then hand you a large metal piece that contains a number. This little feature is actually pretty neat!
Obviously, WVRST is known for their gourmet sausages and duck fat fried (I will explain this one later). They have something for everyone. As long as you feel adventurous, they will have something for you! They even have a nice selection that is suitable for vegans/vegetarians.
Besides, their gourmet sausages being one of the many highlights, they carry a large selection of craft brews. Hoenstly, what more could you ask for?
On this particular visit, I wasn't feeling very adventurous. So, I wanted to stick to something that was relatively "safe". So, I had ordered the Wild Boar (mushroom/tea) sausage on their toasted bun, served with sweet sauteed onions and sauerkraut; duck fat fries with chii tomato jam; and, a pint of their day's cask.
My pint came first. I had ordered the day's cask: Nickel Brook's Equilibrium English Pale Ale (ESB). In case those who aren't aware, ESB stands for, Extra Special/Strong Bitter. So, please be warned. The name caught my attention, and I just had to give it a go. The style is definitely bitter hoppy. There was a tiny hint of fruity bitterness to it. It's worth a try if you're into the medium-light bitters.
Finally, my food order arrived.
Let's start with the sausage first. I was very satisfied with the sausage taste and texture. It was the most suitable choice for the appetite-mood that I was in. So, if you're not feeling all too adventurous, this is defintiely an option to consider.
Now, for the duck fat fries. I've read many reviews and heard from many people that their duck fat fries are amazing. And, I just had to try it! I think the the sketching of a duck on the wrapping paper was cute. Some may say, it's too char or burnt for them. I actually don't mind that about the fries. I also like the thick cut of the fries. There is a taste difference compared to other fried fries. It's more aromatic and tastier. My only complaint and I wished I knew about this ahead of time, was that it was just too salty for my taste buds. So, I know for next time, to tell them no salt please. It's better to eat less salt. Right?
The dipping sauce was just amazing! It went hand in hand with the duck fat fries. And honestly, it wasn't all that spicy. Perhaps, my spicy tolerance has risen again?
Overall, it was a very good experience and I can surely see why this is a very busy place on Friday and weekend nights. I will definitely visit WVRST again and hopefully, try something adventurous!
