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The Cornerstone Pub

537 College St. West, Toronto

647-430-7111

It's not very often you see copies of Darwin's Descent of Man and The Odyssey stacked behind the bar at a pub.

"You know we're a family pub, right?" says a bubbly Meredith Coulter, who points out her mom and infant son as she plays hostess, waitress and bartender to the busy after-work patio crowd.

Even though she should be on maternity leave, Coulter is helping out. Her mom owns the pub, her brother manages it, and her boyfriend wears the chef's hat in the back.

"People always tell us, 'You're like a European family with a baby in the back,' " she says. "I don't know how it happened but it did."

Originally from Ancaster, Ont., Coulter's parents had been looking for a pub to buy for the past two years. Having both kids working in the industry and being retired meant they could do something they enjoyed.

"We thought it would be a nice endeavour so that the whole family could be together," says Coulter.

The sights and smells provide a traditional pub experience - a wrap-around bar with stools, wood panelling, some weathered living room furniture, and the familiar whiff of French fries and vinegar.

The daily specials range from all-you-can-eat fish and chips to $4 well drinks. But don't be fooled by the casual façade - there's much more to the menu than pub grub.

People are coming back for the Irish nachos ($12), the Ploughman's lunch ($12) and the salmon tandoori ($12).

Weekends offer a brunch and

shake things up with live music on Friday and Saturday nights, alternating between an acoustic and three-piece band.

On Sundays, scope out the comedy talent for open-mic night.

"We love this area. It's really friendly and the community itself has been awesome to us," says Coulter.

Irish Sunset ($10.50)

1 ounce Amaretto

2 ounces Cranberry juice

1 pint Guinness beer

Mix ingredients together and serve in a tall glass.