One year ago last week, we heard of a hip little fish joint opening on Dundas West, where all the coolest new restaurants have been popping up in the last few years. That little place is now all over social media and well known to those who love good fish tacos, lobster rolls and playing a good game of Pac Man. Happy Hooker is the brainchild of Attilio Pugliese, an Italian kid with lots of style who loves fresh fish (never frozen) and creating some kick ass sandwiches.
Personally I have been stopping in for lunch every time I’m in the area. Their fried grouper tacos are one of my favourites, filled with uber tender fish, pickled red cabbage, lime crema and lots of cilantro. One of the only reasons I have rarely stopped in at night was their lack of a liquor license (yup, I am an alkie… can’t eat dinner without my glass of wine!). But recently Happy Hooker got their liquor license and a few weeks ago we were invited to preview some of the new menu items as well as staples that I already knew I loved.
First off, we were greeted with a Dark & Stormy cocktail – now I am not a cocktail girl but if you’re gonna give me a cocktail, the Dark & Stormy is one I love. So the night was off to a good start. The tiny space has a cottage-cabin feel, featuring mix-matched chairs and cool vintage prints on the wall. It’s a casual vibe where anyone can feel comfortable.
Among the Happy Hooker staple menu items I’ve enjoyed previously, like the shrimp tacos (spicy!), the Cali Baja Taco and the Kale Salad (I LOVE this one!), we were privy to sample new menu items like Baja Fries, the Shrimp Po’ Boy and the Lobster Roll. The Baja Fries were very tasty reminding me of nachos but made with fries instead of chips. The shrimp Po’ boy – well only one thing to say: I have to go back for this. Cripsy cornmeal on the outside and tender shrimp on the inside, the bread was soft and the flavours full – just watch out for the jalapeno! Mr. Pugliese obviously likes food with a kick! The lobster roll? Hands down the favourite of the evening with delicious fresh lobster oozing out of the buttery bun. If you check out Happy Hooker, this roll is a must – it may have even replaced my grouper tacos…
Spring is in the air and there is no better time to enjoy fish creations done fresh to order. Now with a full liquor license, Happy Hooker should definitely be on your Toronto seafood destination list.
Happy Birthday, Happy Hooker and cheers to many more!
All photos by Alex Tsang. You can check out his work on Instagram and on Twitter.
If you love the Happy Hooker as much as we do, let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.