An iconic Toronto barbecue spot is launching Sunday brunch

There are few things Torontonians love more than lining up for brunch. Now, a long-standing smokehouse is throwing its hash browns into the ring.

“People are really craving experiences again,” says Carbon Bar chef Taylor Wells. “They’re looking for reasons to gather that feel special but still approachable. At the Carbon Bar, we’re known for big-energy dinners and barbecue feasts. We wanted to bring the same smoke, comfort and hospitality into a different rhythm of service: something more relaxed, social and sunny.”

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Starting on May 24, the Carbon Bar will debut Sunday brunch. The reservations-recommended affair will imbue classic brunch dishes with the flavours of the restaurant’s signature Texas-style barbecue.

“It’s brunch with personality,” says Wells. “Loud flavours, comfort-food energy and dishes meant to start conversations. You’ll see smoked meat appearing on eggs Benny, big-format share plates, and dishes designed to feel indulgent yet still chef-driven.”

The house-smoked pastrami and brisket Bennies share space on the menu with southern staples like buttermilk fried chicken and waffles with hot honey. There’s also smoked tomato-and-cannellini-bean shakshuka with spinach, eggs, chimichurri and feta. “It’s a dish that just makes sense to smoke,” says Wells.

A new favourite import from sister takeout spot the Carbon Snack Bar is the Triple B brisket breakfast biscuit, a sandwich take on steak and eggs, now with the addition of hash browns.

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“People want familiarity. Pancakes, eggs, something nostalgic—but they also want discovery,” says Wells. Case in point: the burnt ends kimchi ssam. “The best brunch dishes feel satisfying, a little indulgent and worth leaving the house for.”

Can’t decide on a dish? Enter the tiered brunch tower, stacked with pancakes, chicken and waffles, avocado toast, smoked meat, eggs, and more. For true indulgence, pair it with a fried-chicken (or rib or brisket) caesar or a $25 bottle of prosecco.

“Brunch really fits the Toronto lifestyle: social without being formal, celebratory without being expensive,” says Wells. “It’s one of the few meals where there are no strict rules. Coffee can turn into cocktails, breakfast becomes lunch and the table stays full longer than planned. Brunch isn’t just a meal—it’s permission to slow down.”