Alex Asacker is a freelancer living in Toronto's West End. 
Maxie’s
Earlier this month Paul and I opted for an impromptu meal in Stockbridge and Paul recommended Maxie’s. He had enjoyed a sandwich there earlier in the week and claimed it was just packed at lunchtime. I had passed the unassuming Maxie’s many times on my way to The Store, but never thought much of going in.
It is a fairly small cafe and we arrived a bit early for lunch to avoid the crowds. We watched a family enjoying a late breakfast of poached eggs on a muffin (biscuit) that looked delicious. We chose a table by the window and glanced up at the blackboards and at the menu on the table.
The menu was simple but varied, containing many breakfast choices not usually available, like pancakes. I considered the French toast for a while before deciding on a sandwich. Being unable to choose between the chicken and cranberry and the Brie and cranberry I decided to combine the two. Paul chose a ham and Swiss cheese sandwich and grabbed his usual bag of crisps (chips) to accompany the meal. I noted the only brand offered was Tyrrell’s. After checking their site I found that Tyrrells, based in Herefordshire, “… are the only small UK chip maker to grow our own potatoes & process them into delicious chips on the farm”. Paul picked Jalapeno chilli and lemon and I’ll admit I sampled quite a few.
We liked having the choice of breads and while Paul opted for a baguette I chose a bloomer. The bread was incredibly fresh and the sandwiches heartily filled. Paul commented on the thick slices of ham in his sandwich, and mine was a delicious combination with fresh chicken breast, soft Brie and a touch of sweet cranberry. Each came with a small side salad and we were both stuffed at the end. What is amazing is the price. At around £3 a sandwich you simply cannot go wrong.
It is worth noting that Maxie’s also carries a variety of jams, dips and sauces as well as crackers and biscuits (cookies). We’re looking forward to returning for breakfast. For a casual but surprisingly tasty lunch in Stockbridge I would highly recommend Maxie’s.
