Best Casual Chain: Cactus Club Cafe

The arrival of Canada’s Iron Chef, Rob Feenie can only elevate the award-winning menu at Cactus Club Cafe (Gold), which the judges found to be full of food that's "honest" and "fun."

Browns Social House (Silver) is less hip than its competitors, and that’s a good thing. This Cactus Club offspring is “familiar, except for the Food Network playing in the washrooms—that’s clever.”

The Keg (Bronze) “is incontestable when it comes to comfort, steak, big drinks, and no surprises.” Despite a need for interior renos, the simple generosities of the menu and staff are welcoming.

Earls (Honourable Mention) is sexy as can be. “From the celebrity-style servers to big-screen TVs,” said one judge, “it has successfully morphed into something bolder than it was.” Kudos for a smart wine list, and for a riotous atmosphere (especially at the Hornby location) on game nights.

Joeys (Honourable Mention) wins for a West Coast mod interior, bold rooftop cabana bar, and those irresisitible blue-cheese fries.

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