DuWest’s The Federal is pretty much a failsafe; the place is bound to be rockin’ any time of day or night. We love their stellar brunch menu, filled with a pocketful of bang-on plates that make the selection process a teeny bit difficult. Oh, and did we mention they’re the only place in the 6 to earn a Monocle Restaurant Award? Not too shabby.

Midday menu picks are divvied up into sections including un-savoury (foie gras French toast!), eggs (veg omelette) and sandwiches (we adore the curry chicken). But for the indecisive amongst us, the smoked trout plate is the best bet ($14).

It comes laden with a bit of everything: a poached egg, a potato and green onion rösti, a house-baked scone with Canuck cheddar, sliced cukes and, yes, the caper-strewn rainbow trout from The Smoke Master. (“He’s an awesome independent producer; a cool German guy who smokes stuff,” co-owner Zach Slootsky notes.) There’s also arugula spruced up with pickled onion and whipped cream brightened with just the right amount of lemon. Add the house ketchup and plenty of coffee to the mix and you’re ready to take the day by the horns.

The Federal, 1438 Dundas St. W., 647-352-9120