After finding Smokeless Joe's too full we went a couple of doors down John Street to try the Fat Belgian. It has been open for a year now but this was my first visit. As you walk into the beautiful converted historic row house, the bar is just inside the front door. The intimate interior has warm wood and a clean, simple elegance. There's a "boys club" kind of feel except for the whimsical accents scattered around the room - fresh flowers, lit candles and multiple New Yorker Magazine-like caricatures of Rubenesque-bottomed women. It's far more formal than Smokeless Joe's but we were very comfortable and did not feel out of place in our casual attire.
On tap were, Delirim Tremens Blond Ale, Erdinger Wheat, DeKoninck Amber Ale, Fruli Strawberry Wheat and Affligem Abbey Ale. Their bottled selection includes other Belgian beers. Some listed are Achel Brune, Achel Blond, Chimay Premier, Chimay Blue, Chimay White, Chimay Red, Duvel, Golden Draak, Priaat, Westmalle Double, Rochefort 6, Rochefort 8, Rochefort 10, Blanch de Chambly and many more.
It was a bit too late for a full on meal but we did indulge in some light fare. The warm mushroom salad with miso dressing was buttery & rich. We also ordered the Fat Belgian mussels and the grilled calamari salad which were both excellent. The server was friendly and knowledgable. I will definitely come back to another visit and try a full meal next time.
For a profile on Toronto.com : http://www.toronto.com/restaurants/article/000-374-145
