796 Dundas Street West, Toronto
Right after my friend and I scarfed down a ginormous meal at Patois restaurant, we visited JunePlum – Patois’ sister eatery that is located right beside Patois (Chef Craig Wong is the owner of both businesses).
JunePlum is a quaint and funky space that houses kitschy items, as well as nostalgic snacks from the Caribbean and Asia. But it is also home to a noteworthy patty that I’ve only heard about, and was dying to try.
When I took a few steps into the shop, my eyes focused on the patties. I couldn’t help it – the spicy aroma guided my attention right to them.
There were frozen ones displayed, and freshly baked ones ready to be eaten.
My friend and I studied their menu of patties for about 5 minutes, trying to decide which would best satisfy our appetites. We were overcome by the different varieties.
The selection of patties
Smoked brisket in oxtail gravy
Curry G.O.A.T
Coconut crab rundown
Vegan cashew callaloo rundown
We both ordered the smoked brisket in oxtail gravy patty. #teamoxtail
Oh, I didn’t eat it at first; I held onto the steamy brown paper bag for dear life, all the way home on the bus. That was no easy feat. But I was still stuffed from brunch, and I knew I wouldn’t enjoy the patty on a full stomach.
After a few hours, I was ready for the patty. I warmed it up in my toaster oven – I didn’t want to nuke it in the microwave – I needed to preserve its crispiness.
I took out it after a few minutes and placed it on a plate. It looked like a piece of modern art.
I took a tiny bite of the crust and it was unlike any other crust I’ve ever had – this is not an exaggeration.
The crust was super crispy, not dry or crunchy. It was rich and buttery. It tasted like an indulgent French pastry, and not the dry, lackluster patty crusts that you tend to get at shops in the subway station (you know which subway station I’m talking about!).
And then there is the brisket and the gravy! The brisket swimming in the oxtail gravy was just as epic. It was succulent and bursting with yumminess. Not sure how it is even possible for one patty to be this good.
Oh, the patty rings in at $9.75 each. I am completely aware that it sounds like an exorbitant amount of money for a patty, but once you try it, you’ll understand.
Would I have this patty again?
I’m already thinking about my next order.
Want to try a patty for yourself? Hit the links below for the deets.
IG: @juneplumto
Have you tried the patties at JunePlum? Let me know what you think of my review and leave a comment.
Michelle Bites 