Breakfast at Jim's: Legendary east end diner has served up its last western

After serving "the best westerns" in Toronto for more than 50 years, Jim's Restaurant, a Leslieville landmark, closed Saturday to the dismay of many regulars.

"I didn't know it was closing," Joe Geraci told CBC News when informed that the popular eatery on Queen Street East near Logan Avenue will be replaced by a six-storey condominium development. "I'm shocked. I'm gonna miss this place."

"I work every second Saturday so I come here for a nice breakfast," he said, adding that the cash-only restaurant's Hungry Man special — featuring three eggs, three slices of bacon, three sausages, a slice of peameal, toast and tea or coffee — always hits the spot and keeps him going until dinner.

"And the Western's keep you coming back for more," Geraci said, referring to the restaurant's signature item.

When told why Jim's was closing, Gerci sighed.

"Ah, very nice. Developments," he said sarcastically. "Close everything down."

Shelly Ravells was another regular who was sad to see Jim's leaving the neighbourhood. She said she woke up early on Saturday to have breakfast at the restaurant.

When asked if Jim's legendary westerns met the hype surrounding them, she said, "Actually, there's a secret sandwich not many people know about. It's a peameal, egg and cheese sandwich that Mimi makes that's amazing! It's not on the menu."

Ravells said Jim's reflected the eclectic neighbourhood and was philosophical about how Leslieville is changing.

"Change is good but, unfortunately, it's squeezing out these mom-and-pop places and a lot of these big box stores are coming in, which is not so great. What can you do?"

"We take pride in what we do," he said. "We tried to stay here. We looked around but the rents are too high in this area. What are you gonna do?"