The experience takes place at SIMONA Mediterranean Italian Restaurant, a waterfront destination inspired by the traditions of Sicily and the Mediterranean. Located at Merchants’ Wharf in Toronto’s East Bayfront neighbourhood, SIMONA combines lakefront views with a menu that centres on fresh pastas, traditional pizzas, shareable plates, and warm hospitality.
Brunch here takes its time. As you settle in, another dish arrives, followed by pizza fresh from the kitchen. Conversations linger, the lake shimmers beyond the patio, and the afternoon seems to slow down with it.
What starts as one more mimosa quickly turns into a shared truffle pizza. Before long, brunch service is winding down, the kitchen is preparing for the next part of the day, and you’re left wondering where the afternoon went.
The best waterfront brunches don’t rush you out the door. They make you forget to look at the clock in the first place. This is what happens at a restaurant built around the idea of Sicilian hospitality.
The philosophy is simple but intentional. Take your time, savour every bite, and settle into an atmosphere of warmth, beauty, and effortless elegance. It’s reflected in every part of the experience, from the brunch pace to the dishes arriving at your table.
Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with a bottomless mimosa option available. Bottomless mimosas are limited to 1.5 hours of service. The menu showcases fresh pastas, traditional pizzas, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with quality ingredients.
Mediterranean Moments
Signature dishes include the Gambero Rose, a rich and creamy rosé pasta with seafood, and the Funghi, a vegan pasta featuring earthy mushrooms and bold flavours. Pizzas emerge from the kitchen generously topped, whether you prefer a truffle-infused white sauce or a classic tomato base. Starters such as arancini and grilled octopus are popular choices, while fresh salads topped with creamy burrata offer a lighter option.
One of the restaurant’s most appealing details is the open kitchen, visible from the dining room. Guests can watch chefs stretching dough, plating pasta, and preparing each dish, adding a sense of theatre to an experience that already encourages you to stay a little longer than planned.
The waterfront setting is a major part of the experience. The patio overlooks the lake, while large windows throughout the dining room frame the water from nearly every seat. Inside, guests can choose from traditional tables, lounge-style seating, or spots at the bar, all designed to feel comfortable rather than crowded.
At the heart of the restaurant is a Sicilian approach to hospitality that values connection, conversation, and taking your time. The meal isn’t meant to be rushed. It’s meant to be enjoyed.
Brunch here is designed as an experience rather than simply a meal. Whether you’re gathering with friends, sharing time with family, or enjoying a quiet escape by the water, the atmosphere encourages you to settle in and stay awhile. The bottomless mimosas, handcrafted dishes, and waterfront setting all play a role.
It’s the difference between eating brunch and experiencing it. Mediterranean hospitality, lakefront views, and an unhurried pace come together to create the kind of afternoon where a few hours can disappear without you noticing.
The Need To Know Details
- Restaurant: SIMONA Mediterranean Italian Restaurant. Modern Mediterranean dining rooted in Sicilian tradition
- Location: 59 Merchants’ Wharf, Toronto, ON M5A 0R6. Toronto waterfront location in the East Bayfront/Harbourfront area
- Brunch days & times: Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Weekend brunch service only (Saturday and Sunday).
- Brunch cuisine: Sicilian Mediterranean Italian cuisine. House-made pastas, traditional pizzas, and coastal-inspired share plates. Fresh ingredients, artisanal preparation. Vegan and vegetarian options available
- Drinks & cocktails: Bottomless mimosas, Simona Spritz cocktail, full bar with aperitivo menu. Wine selection. House-made cocktails. Coffee and tea.
- Full restaurant hours: Monday-Thursday: 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Friday: 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM. Saturday: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Sunday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Reservations & website: Book online via OpenTable or contact simona@fabrestaurants.ca. Website: https://fabrestaurants.ca/restaurant/simona/. Reservations are recommended for brunch, especially on weekends
