where jess ate

As a 12,000 sq ft “ping pong social club” in King West, SPiN (@SPiN_Toronto) definitely brings something a little different to the area. With two bars, a lounge area, fun comfort food and twelve ping pong tables, this place is perfect for a fun night (or day) out.

They’re open late every day – 1am Sundays to Wednesdays and 2am Thursdays to Saturdays. While they have memberships for regulars, the walk-in rates are pretty reasonable at $20/hour before 5pm and $30/hour after 5pm (members pay half the general walk-in rate). It’ll cost you a little more if you want to guarantee a table – $60/hour for a reservation.

Oh, and not to worry if you’re not a ping pong pro. This isn’t a place where only pros are welcome. I’m terrible at ping pong myself but I had a ton of fun!

I’ve been to SPiN before for a corporate event and had a fantastic time – it’s so much more fun than simply going to a bar. They’ve got great drinks and playing ping pong made it so much more interactive!

Last week, I was invited to SPiN to preview the new spring/summer dishes by Chef Jon Lovett (@iamjonlovett). On my previous visit, I didn’t try the food and was surprised to see that they have such an extensive menu. I love the fact that their menu has such a strong focus on using local and seasonal ingredients.

The menu consists of several sections – small plates, sandwiches, salads and sweets. I’d describe the menu as comfort food… with a spin (hehe). Here’s a look at what I tried…

Cast Iron Prawns – Inland farmed prawns, old bay, garlic & chives

Poppers – jalapenos stuffed with Atlantic Rock crab and served with ranch dipping sauce

Kung Pao Tofu – extra firm tofu with a burnt pineapple glaze and jicama slaw

Fresh Veggie Chips – coloured beets, heirloom carrots, radish and SPiN sauce

Taco Salad – King Capon chicken, avocado, turtle beans and fresh cheese

Chicken N Waffles Platter – King Capon chicken breast, jalapenos and local honey

5 Step Fries Supreme – Rose Family Kennebec potatoes, easy cheese and taco fixins

Grilled Cheese – 1 year cheddar, Monterey jack & Canadian gruyere

Can o’ Tuna – line caught Ahi tartare, quail egg, herb salad and toast

Sloppy Joe – with Ontario lamb shoulder

Cheese and Meats – market cheese, cured meats, pickles, Kozlik’s mustard & flat breads

Ginger & Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae

I was really impressed with the food! There wasn’t anything I didn’t enjoy. One of my favourites was the chicken n’ waffles platter. The chicken was crisp on the outside and wonderfully moist on the inside. The waffle also had a crisp exterior and was quite light and fluffy. The jalapenos gave it a nice kick and the honey gave it just the right amount of sweetness.

The grilled cheese was another favourite of mine. It may look like a simple grilled cheese but the quality of the ingredients used and the side of housemade ketchup really elevated the sandwich.

Each day, SPiN features a different sundae. Today’s feature was ginger and vanilla – topped with bits of ginger bread. A perfect end to a delicious meal.

SPiN is a great alternative to the typical bar – ping pong, great cocktails and delicious comfort food that’ll leave you wanting more!

*This was a complimentary meal. The opinions in the post are my own.*