Lucien
36 Wellington St., East
416-504-9990
The decor and atmosphere at Lucien is perfect. An eccentric decor with leather walls, wrought iron and casual setting is a perfect place for drinks and dinner. I had high expectations for Lucien and although the food was very good, it wasn't amazing. The pork belly and spicy kimchee was inventive and flavourful, the rest of the meal was ok. It was heavy with flavour and rich with sauce. It tried too hard. I would recommend drinks and I would not say to avoid the food but don't expect too much. Ranked as James Chatto's #1 in April 2008 Toronto Life I would suggest Colborne Lane, C5 or L'Unita befor heading to Lucien for a culinary feast.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Colborne Lane, Downtown
Colborne Lane
45 Colborne Lane
416-368-9009
I have always been a fan of Claudio Aprile. Of Sense's fame, Chef April open Colborne Lane in 2007 and it is amazing. Classified as Toronto's molecular maestro, he earns the title. Although you may not be fan of the tasting menu it is a must here. I can't even begin to describe the flavour and presentation. We enjoyed a miso-flavoured tune tartare in a cube of perfectly formed iced. Corn doused in liquid nitrogen to make the perfect sweet corn soup and a Hibiscus and salt-cured foie gras that is to die for. Claudio Aprile is recognized as one of Canada's best Chef's and rightly so. I would try for the Chef's table located right by the kitchen for a true picture of life at Colborne Lane. It was ranked at James Chatto's #2 choice in April 2008 Toronto Life but I would definitely say it's #1.
45 Colborne Lane
416-368-9009
I have always been a fan of Claudio Aprile. Of Sense's fame, Chef April open Colborne Lane in 2007 and it is amazing. Classified as Toronto's molecular maestro, he earns the title. Although you may not be fan of the tasting menu it is a must here. I can't even begin to describe the flavour and presentation. We enjoyed a miso-flavoured tune tartare in a cube of perfectly formed iced. Corn doused in liquid nitrogen to make the perfect sweet corn soup and a Hibiscus and salt-cured foie gras that is to die for. Claudio Aprile is recognized as one of Canada's best Chef's and rightly so. I would try for the Chef's table located right by the kitchen for a true picture of life at Colborne Lane. It was ranked at James Chatto's #2 choice in April 2008 Toronto Life but I would definitely say it's #1.
C5, Downtown
On a return visit to C5 we were still impressed by the food. The charcuterie plate was exquisite with Berkshire pork pate, house cure trout and foie gras 'bon-bon' were amazing. The Escolar Tataki was a little bland but the Vindaloo Scented Lamb Loin and Seared Black Cod more than made up for it. The open space and Crystal-like atmosphere added to the atmosphere. I still find the space little too cole and impersonal for my taste but if you are with the right company then a warm and exiting evening with a wonderful McLaren Vale Kangarilla wine will more then make up for it. I would still highly recommend you try C5. Listed as James Chatto's #4 on his Top 10 in April 2008 Toronto Life I would have to list it as #2.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
L'unita , Yorkville
134 Avenue Road
416-964-8686
A chic Italian eatery, L'unita is not a typical over-sized plate of pasta type place. It has that intimate feel with modern touches and casual atmosphere that would make you want to eat here 7 days a week. The food is very fresh and the pasta is house-made. My rocket salad with procuitto and pecorino cheese was a perfect start followed by a lovely plate of grilled tuna and char-grilled lemon which gave the tuna a nice smoky flavour. I was able to sample the house-made pasta and although slightly overcooked, the sauce was rich and delicious. If you are looking for a good place to have drinks, they have a great bar. L'unita has received very good reviews as they should. Not overly expensive, it is a must try.
416-964-8686
A chic Italian eatery, L'unita is not a typical over-sized plate of pasta type place. It has that intimate feel with modern touches and casual atmosphere that would make you want to eat here 7 days a week. The food is very fresh and the pasta is house-made. My rocket salad with procuitto and pecorino cheese was a perfect start followed by a lovely plate of grilled tuna and char-grilled lemon which gave the tuna a nice smoky flavour. I was able to sample the house-made pasta and although slightly overcooked, the sauce was rich and delicious. If you are looking for a good place to have drinks, they have a great bar. L'unita has received very good reviews as they should. Not overly expensive, it is a must try.
Canoe Restaurant, Downtown
Canoe
54th TD Tower, 66 Wellington St. West
416 364-0054
Canoe was always one of my favourite standby's but I was so disappointed in my last meal there. We started with the Yukon Potato Gnocchi with Crispy Sweetbreads and Foie Gras. It was tasty but very rich and far too heavy for an appetizer. I was glad a opted to share it. I then had the Cumbrae Farms Beef Tenderloin with “Cheeky” Pot Roast, Molten Cheddar Cauliflower & Black Truffle. There was far too much happening on the plate for me to enjoy it. The flavours were not well balanced and the sauce was overly reduced. Jason has the Bison Tenderloin with Hedgehog porriage and potato gnocchi which was good but again, too rich and not well balanced with flavour. I would have chalked it up to a bad night but I have heard from others who have been there recently that they too were disappointed.
54th TD Tower, 66 Wellington St. West
416 364-0054
Canoe was always one of my favourite standby's but I was so disappointed in my last meal there. We started with the Yukon Potato Gnocchi with Crispy Sweetbreads and Foie Gras. It was tasty but very rich and far too heavy for an appetizer. I was glad a opted to share it. I then had the Cumbrae Farms Beef Tenderloin with “Cheeky” Pot Roast, Molten Cheddar Cauliflower & Black Truffle. There was far too much happening on the plate for me to enjoy it. The flavours were not well balanced and the sauce was overly reduced. Jason has the Bison Tenderloin with Hedgehog porriage and potato gnocchi which was good but again, too rich and not well balanced with flavour. I would have chalked it up to a bad night but I have heard from others who have been there recently that they too were disappointed.
C5, Downtown
C5
located in the Royal Ontario Museum
416.586.7928
We had low expectations for C5. I am not a huge fan of the new Crystal addition to the ROM so I think I went with this in mind. I had not read any reviews either, which is sometimes for the best. So my first reaction sitting down was that I didn't like the atmosphere. The room is very contemporary with big white walls and white modern leather furniture. It was a too bright when we entered but they dimmed the lights and that helped. I would still say that the atmosphere wouldn't be my choice as I tend to prefer cozy, intimate restaurants.
But the food...WOW! We were really impressed by the food. I had fresh porcini mushroom linguini with parmesan foam and Jason had the charcuterie plate to start. My pasta was cooked perfectly, with the right amount of sauce and a very flavouful foam on top. Jason charcuterie plate consisted of foie gras pate, Bershire pork terrine and Niagara sausage. Both dishes were delicious. For our mains I opted for the Vindaloo Dorset lamb with cauliflower puree and spatzael while Jason had the 60 day aged Cumbrea's ribeye. Both cooked to a perfect medium-rare and both juicy. My vindaloo was flavourful with a touch of spice but not overwhelming spicy. For dessert we opted for some Cheese Boutique cheeses, which were fresh and lovely.
For wine we had a wonderful red wine, Kangarilla, from South Australia's McLaren Vale region. Overall is was pricy but well worth it.
I would highly recommend that you try C5 for yourself.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
New Zealand / Australia
New Zealand
Inspire - located in The Spire Hotel in Queenstown, NZ. On our first night in NZ we enjoyed a 6 course meal at Inspire. The Chef had spent time in Vancouver cooking in many well known restaurants. My favourite dish was the Orange Pepper Soup with Basil foam. It also inspired me to make Chocolate Pannacotta, which we had for dessert, when I returned home.
Wai - also located in Queenstown, NZ. Wai offered many local dishes. I sampled Whitebait fish (tiny white fish, lightly pan-fried), local oysters and of course, famous NZ lamb. Overlooking the lake on a fresh summer evening I will never forget my meal at Wai.
Mollies - the tasting menu, although good, is not what was remarkable about Mollies. As we entered the renovated 18th Century mansion we were invited to cocktails in the 'Opera Room'. As you sip your drinks before dinner you are treated to a few Arias however, we were treated to the string section of the South Africian Orchestra that night. What a lovely treat to be one of ony 20 t a private performance. It is hard to describe the atmosphere of Mollies so I have included a photo. Next time we will not only stay for dinner but also in one of the 14 unique suites.
Te Whau Winery - after our experience at Mollies we wondered how it could ever be topped. Although we knew dinner at the winery would not be as outragous we didn't expect the stunning scenery. The meal was superb (more lamb!) and my seared tuna starter was devine. I have also included a photo or two as words can not begin to describe it.
Australia
Pearl - located in Melbourne, we dined at Pearl for New Year's Eve. It was the best meal I had on our whole trip. We started with Beef Tartare and Beet Root Shoots, Seared Tuna (as good as Te Whau if not better), roasted duck in a red curry (amazing!) and passionfruit pannacotta with Angel Fairy Floss. It was devine, all of it!
Didier, Mid-Town
Didier
1496 Yonge St (at St. Clair)
416-925-8588
www.restaurantdidier.com
When I first walked in a had the feeling like I was in a bistro in Paris. A warm, cozy feeling greeted me and I felt excited. I wondered what took me so long to try one of the top Chef's in Toronto. Chef Didier Leroy was trained in some of the top Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris.
The choice for dinner was difficult. The menu offered up much traditional French fare like Cassoulet, Beef Tartare, Seared Quebec Foie Gras and Veal Sweetbreads. I opted for the Seared Quebec Foie Gras followed with the Lamb Wellington. A bit heavy but well worth it. The foie gras was seared to perfection and melted in my mouth. My Lamb Wellington was perfect too. Medium Rare lamb surrounded by a light and buttery puff pastry. We waited 15 minutes for Apple Tart, warmed with house made ice cream. Delicious! I would highly recommend a visit to Didier, infact, I'd insist on it.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Miami / South Beach
Lario's on the Beach
820 Ocean Drive
(305) 532-9577
Owned by Gloria Estefan, Lario's serves excellent Cuban food. You can dance to latin music too. The atmosphere is casual and lots of fun. Very popular, so be sure to make reservations
OLA (Of Latin America)
1745 James Ave.
(305) 695-9125
Latin infusion cusine. It is high-end dining and a tad expensive. Well worth it though. I loved the food here and gthe chef has been deemed one of the most important latin chefs in the world.
Delano Hotel
1685 Collins Ave
(305) 672-2000
See and be seen - I have not eaten here but it is THE place to go for drinks. Dress up in your Saturday night best!
820 Ocean Drive
(305) 532-9577
Owned by Gloria Estefan, Lario's serves excellent Cuban food. You can dance to latin music too. The atmosphere is casual and lots of fun. Very popular, so be sure to make reservations
OLA (Of Latin America)
1745 James Ave.
(305) 695-9125
Latin infusion cusine. It is high-end dining and a tad expensive. Well worth it though. I loved the food here and gthe chef has been deemed one of the most important latin chefs in the world.
Delano Hotel
1685 Collins Ave
(305) 672-2000
See and be seen - I have not eaten here but it is THE place to go for drinks. Dress up in your Saturday night best!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Sotto Sotto, Yorkville
Sotto Sotto
116a Avenue Rd
(416) 962-0011
www.sottosotto.ca
They claim to be the most romantic Italian restaurant in the city and I have to admit it could very well be. You enter down the stairs into an brick-exposed, candle-lit room and you feel the warmth. The lights are low so you only see the person you are with but you know others are around because it's a bit noisy. That adds to the charm. We sampled Grilled polenta with sauteed muchrooms and a cream sauce as well as the Caprese Salad - which we had to order more of, it was that good. Rarely do you find the real Buffalo Mozzarella that melts in your mouth but Sotto Sotto has it. I had the whole fresh fish for dinner and it was moist and perfectly cooked. The food here is always excellent. They have been around for so long and are so well known you are always guaranteed an excellent meal. The service was quick and friendly. Errors were quickly fixed. A must try - just don't even think about walking in. Reservations are a must.
116a Avenue Rd
(416) 962-0011
www.sottosotto.ca
They claim to be the most romantic Italian restaurant in the city and I have to admit it could very well be. You enter down the stairs into an brick-exposed, candle-lit room and you feel the warmth. The lights are low so you only see the person you are with but you know others are around because it's a bit noisy. That adds to the charm. We sampled Grilled polenta with sauteed muchrooms and a cream sauce as well as the Caprese Salad - which we had to order more of, it was that good. Rarely do you find the real Buffalo Mozzarella that melts in your mouth but Sotto Sotto has it. I had the whole fresh fish for dinner and it was moist and perfectly cooked. The food here is always excellent. They have been around for so long and are so well known you are always guaranteed an excellent meal. The service was quick and friendly. Errors were quickly fixed. A must try - just don't even think about walking in. Reservations are a must.
Tappo Wine Bar, Distillery District
Tappo Wine Bar and Restaurant
Historic Distillery District
55 Mill St., Building 3
(647) 430-1111
www.tappo.ca
The atmosphere at Tappo is terrific. Very cozy and intimate. I loved the open brink walls and the Distillery District feel. The service was good, a bit slow considering we had to be at the Soulpepper Theatre by 8 pm but as our guests pointed out, the service was typically Italian - as in take your time, eat and drink. I would have liked another hour to drink wine and have some dessert but the theatre wouldn't wait for that. The food wasn't as good as I would have expected. My Caprese salad was perfectly fine but I had just dined at Sotto Sotto a few nights before so I was comparing the two and it wasn't as good as my Sotto Sotto Caprese. My veal was perfectly cooked but my whole meal was drenched in a rich sauce. The risotto seemed to lack flavour and was a bit too firm. Good risotto has to jiggle in the bowl. We missed dessert (due to the slow service) so I can't say what it would have been like. I would not make a special trip to Tappo but if I in the Distillery District and I want to stop for drinks somewhere I would enjoy a glass (or two) of Italian wine at the bar.
Historic Distillery District
55 Mill St., Building 3
(647) 430-1111
www.tappo.ca
The atmosphere at Tappo is terrific. Very cozy and intimate. I loved the open brink walls and the Distillery District feel. The service was good, a bit slow considering we had to be at the Soulpepper Theatre by 8 pm but as our guests pointed out, the service was typically Italian - as in take your time, eat and drink. I would have liked another hour to drink wine and have some dessert but the theatre wouldn't wait for that. The food wasn't as good as I would have expected. My Caprese salad was perfectly fine but I had just dined at Sotto Sotto a few nights before so I was comparing the two and it wasn't as good as my Sotto Sotto Caprese. My veal was perfectly cooked but my whole meal was drenched in a rich sauce. The risotto seemed to lack flavour and was a bit too firm. Good risotto has to jiggle in the bowl. We missed dessert (due to the slow service) so I can't say what it would have been like. I would not make a special trip to Tappo but if I in the Distillery District and I want to stop for drinks somewhere I would enjoy a glass (or two) of Italian wine at the bar.
TRU, Chicago
TRU
676 North Saint Clair St., Chicago
(312) 202-0001
www.trurestaurant.com
What can I say...it was probably the best meal I have ever had. It wasn't just the food, it was the food and the service combined. When you first walk in you expect pretention but not so. Even though Open Table had made an error with our reservation the restaurant graciously fixed it for us and we had a table when we could have easily been turned away. We started with cocktails. I have never seen a beer poured from a stering silver holder before - there is always a first. Then the sommalier tasted the wine to be sure that is wasn't corked, another first. We were seated at our table for four and a very friendly server explained the menu to us in great detail. It was hard to choose. I opted for the Beef Tartare with red pepper and zucchini - it was the most unique tartare I have ever had. My husband tried the Beef Cheek Ravioli with Marrow Orange Bordelaise and it was the popular choice around the table. Another friend had the Lobster Soup and again, it was devine. For our main course all of our choices were perfect and the delivery of the food was perfectly syncronized. Dessert is another story all together. Chocolate all around - the souffle was better then the one I had at the Trump Taj Mahal a few years back, now moving into the favourite souffle category. The highlight of the night was the candy cart. 12-15 homemade candies ranging from chocolate lollypops to fruit gels this was our version of a kid in a candy store. We ended the meal with a glass of 40 year old Graham's Port and off we went with cookbook in hand.
If you are ever in Chicago and you have the chance to eat at TRU you will not be disappointed. It has been 2 weeks and we are still talking about how great it was and I am sure we will continue to do so for many more months.
676 North Saint Clair St., Chicago
(312) 202-0001
www.trurestaurant.com
What can I say...it was probably the best meal I have ever had. It wasn't just the food, it was the food and the service combined. When you first walk in you expect pretention but not so. Even though Open Table had made an error with our reservation the restaurant graciously fixed it for us and we had a table when we could have easily been turned away. We started with cocktails. I have never seen a beer poured from a stering silver holder before - there is always a first. Then the sommalier tasted the wine to be sure that is wasn't corked, another first. We were seated at our table for four and a very friendly server explained the menu to us in great detail. It was hard to choose. I opted for the Beef Tartare with red pepper and zucchini - it was the most unique tartare I have ever had. My husband tried the Beef Cheek Ravioli with Marrow Orange Bordelaise and it was the popular choice around the table. Another friend had the Lobster Soup and again, it was devine. For our main course all of our choices were perfect and the delivery of the food was perfectly syncronized. Dessert is another story all together. Chocolate all around - the souffle was better then the one I had at the Trump Taj Mahal a few years back, now moving into the favourite souffle category. The highlight of the night was the candy cart. 12-15 homemade candies ranging from chocolate lollypops to fruit gels this was our version of a kid in a candy store. We ended the meal with a glass of 40 year old Graham's Port and off we went with cookbook in hand.
If you are ever in Chicago and you have the chance to eat at TRU you will not be disappointed. It has been 2 weeks and we are still talking about how great it was and I am sure we will continue to do so for many more months.
Soma Chocolatemaker, Distillery District
Soma Chocolatemaker
Historic Distillery District
55 Mill St, building 48
(416) 815-7662
www.somachocolate.com
Mayan Hot Chocolte! It's worth the trip to the Distillery. You can even buy it to make at home but for some reason I think it would be better enjoyed while wondering through the Distillery. They have all things chocolate - truffles, candies, bars, chocolate covered nuts and everything is amazingly delicious. They have some of the worlds best chocolate, like Amedei from Italy available and you can buy in bulk so your favourite chocolate cake will never be the same.
Historic Distillery District
55 Mill St, building 48
(416) 815-7662
www.somachocolate.com
Mayan Hot Chocolte! It's worth the trip to the Distillery. You can even buy it to make at home but for some reason I think it would be better enjoyed while wondering through the Distillery. They have all things chocolate - truffles, candies, bars, chocolate covered nuts and everything is amazingly delicious. They have some of the worlds best chocolate, like Amedei from Italy available and you can buy in bulk so your favourite chocolate cake will never be the same.
Brick Street Bakery, Distillery District
Brick Street Bakery
Distillery Historic District
55 Mill St., Building 45a
(416) 214-4949
www.brickstreetbakery.com
Fresh, fresh and fresh! That is the best way to describe this bakery. The breads are wonderful and fresh. You have to try the Boxing Day Sandwich - turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce. It is delicious. I did not have a chance to try the desserts but they looked great and if they are anything like their breads and sandwiches I am sure they will be yummy.
Once you have had your Brick Street Sandwich head to Soma Chocolatemaker for a Mayan Hot Chocolate. They are both worth a special trip to the Distillery District.
Distillery Historic District
55 Mill St., Building 45a
(416) 214-4949
www.brickstreetbakery.com
Fresh, fresh and fresh! That is the best way to describe this bakery. The breads are wonderful and fresh. You have to try the Boxing Day Sandwich - turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce. It is delicious. I did not have a chance to try the desserts but they looked great and if they are anything like their breads and sandwiches I am sure they will be yummy.
Once you have had your Brick Street Sandwich head to Soma Chocolatemaker for a Mayan Hot Chocolate. They are both worth a special trip to the Distillery District.
Amaya, the indian room, Mid-town
Amaya, the indian room
1701 Bayview Ave
www.amayarestaurant.com
(416) 322-3270
i am not sure about this place. The problem is, I love authentic Indian food and I didn't feel Amaya measured up. That being said, if you don't typically eat Indian then this would be a great place to go. The flavours are mild enough to satisfy any palet and yet they were also spicy. The atmosphere is not overwhelming or intimidating and just had a hint of Indian. It was booked solid on a Thursday night so reservations are a must and they have just started delivery if you live in the area. You can have it delivered by calling Amaya Express at (416) 322-0020. I will definitely go for the delivery but for my Indian dining I will still head down to the Lahore Tikka House on Gerrard.
1701 Bayview Ave
www.amayarestaurant.com
(416) 322-3270
i am not sure about this place. The problem is, I love authentic Indian food and I didn't feel Amaya measured up. That being said, if you don't typically eat Indian then this would be a great place to go. The flavours are mild enough to satisfy any palet and yet they were also spicy. The atmosphere is not overwhelming or intimidating and just had a hint of Indian. It was booked solid on a Thursday night so reservations are a must and they have just started delivery if you live in the area. You can have it delivered by calling Amaya Express at (416) 322-0020. I will definitely go for the delivery but for my Indian dining I will still head down to the Lahore Tikka House on Gerrard.
Julie's Restaurant & Bar, Queen West
Julie's Cuban Restaurant & Bar
202 Dovercourt Rd
(416) 532-7397
Cuba is not normally known for it's cuisine but Julie's steps it up. I really enjoyed this place for it's authentic feel. A small, off the path place tucked onto Dovercourt you would never know how good it was inside. When you enter, you feel like you have stepped into a Cuban restaurant and an instant craving for Mojito will over come you. The Mojitos are made the right way with lots of mint and lots of rum. The portions are huge and so very tasty. We had a big group so we were able to sample lots of tapas to start. The ceviche, fritters and quesidilla all ranked very very high with our group. i would highly recommend you try out Julie's some time but be sure to make a reservation first.
202 Dovercourt Rd
(416) 532-7397
Cuba is not normally known for it's cuisine but Julie's steps it up. I really enjoyed this place for it's authentic feel. A small, off the path place tucked onto Dovercourt you would never know how good it was inside. When you enter, you feel like you have stepped into a Cuban restaurant and an instant craving for Mojito will over come you. The Mojitos are made the right way with lots of mint and lots of rum. The portions are huge and so very tasty. We had a big group so we were able to sample lots of tapas to start. The ceviche, fritters and quesidilla all ranked very very high with our group. i would highly recommend you try out Julie's some time but be sure to make a reservation first.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Cowbell, Parkdale
Cowbell
1564 Queen St. West (just east of Roncesvalles)
416-849-1095
This place has gotten many excellent reviews and I can see why. The atmosphere was great - cozy and unpretentious. You felt like you were somewhere in the country waiting for your wonderfully local food to arrive. The service was great when we first got there but that is where is ends. The service died once we received our food. Half of our plates were cleared and the other half left until we asked to have them removed. The food itself was ok but none of us really enjoyed our meal. I had the Elk T-bone which was seared and cooked properly but came with a few squares of squash that weren't cooked. I also had the carcouterie plate which was alright but it also lacked flavour and two pieces of stale bread does not make it any better. My husband had elk tartare and it lacked any kind of flavour at all. There were 5 capers on the side that would have been better in the tartare (along with everything else that shoudl go into a tartare)
I would not recommend Cowbell and I will likely not return.
1564 Queen St. West (just east of Roncesvalles)
416-849-1095
This place has gotten many excellent reviews and I can see why. The atmosphere was great - cozy and unpretentious. You felt like you were somewhere in the country waiting for your wonderfully local food to arrive. The service was great when we first got there but that is where is ends. The service died once we received our food. Half of our plates were cleared and the other half left until we asked to have them removed. The food itself was ok but none of us really enjoyed our meal. I had the Elk T-bone which was seared and cooked properly but came with a few squares of squash that weren't cooked. I also had the carcouterie plate which was alright but it also lacked flavour and two pieces of stale bread does not make it any better. My husband had elk tartare and it lacked any kind of flavour at all. There were 5 capers on the side that would have been better in the tartare (along with everything else that shoudl go into a tartare)
I would not recommend Cowbell and I will likely not return.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Trevor Kitchen and Bar, Downtown
38 Wellington St., East
416 941-9410
You enter Trevor Kitchen and walk down to a warm and cozy room. There was a hum across the room and I wanted to sit and sip wine all night. The food was really good and I would highly recommend Trevor Kitchen for a night out.
416 941-9410
You enter Trevor Kitchen and walk down to a warm and cozy room. There was a hum across the room and I wanted to sit and sip wine all night. The food was really good and I would highly recommend Trevor Kitchen for a night out.
Sassafraz, Yorkville
100 Cumberland Ave
416 964-2222
I have a soft spot for Sassafraz because one of our best friends got married there. It was an awesome wedding. Newly renovated and open for business Sassafraz is back to being a busy hotspot. The new decor is very similar to the original with a warm modern feeling. Look for the botanical garden growing up the wall. I enjoy having lunch or brunch there on the weekends. The bar is the perfect place for drinks and the food of course, is delicious.
416 964-2222
I have a soft spot for Sassafraz because one of our best friends got married there. It was an awesome wedding. Newly renovated and open for business Sassafraz is back to being a busy hotspot. The new decor is very similar to the original with a warm modern feeling. Look for the botanical garden growing up the wall. I enjoy having lunch or brunch there on the weekends. The bar is the perfect place for drinks and the food of course, is delicious.
Sushi Inn
120 Cumberland Ave
416 923-9992
After a day of shopping in Yorkville, Sushi Inn is a perfect place for dinner. I also like to stop in for lunch when i am working in the area. The sushi is fresh and there are a variety of Bento Boxes to choose from. it is always busy and lined up and it is noisy so if you are looking for quiet, this is not the sushi spot for you.
416 923-9992
After a day of shopping in Yorkville, Sushi Inn is a perfect place for dinner. I also like to stop in for lunch when i am working in the area. The sushi is fresh and there are a variety of Bento Boxes to choose from. it is always busy and lined up and it is noisy so if you are looking for quiet, this is not the sushi spot for you.
Asian Legend, Downtown/ North York
418 Dundas St., West
5188 Yonge St.
This is one of my favourite Chinese restaurants. It is authentic without feeling like you are in a Chinese banquethall. The Moo Shu Pork is a must try. Hot and Sour soup is perfectly spicy and the Ho Fun noodles with beef is delicious. You can eat in or pick up but I don't think they deliver. A non-intimidating place to try some real Chinese food.
5188 Yonge St.
This is one of my favourite Chinese restaurants. It is authentic without feeling like you are in a Chinese banquethall. The Moo Shu Pork is a must try. Hot and Sour soup is perfectly spicy and the Ho Fun noodles with beef is delicious. You can eat in or pick up but I don't think they deliver. A non-intimidating place to try some real Chinese food.
Pho 88, Downtown/ Markham
888 Dundas St., East
270 Spadina Ave
Bamburgh Circle - Warden and Steeles
Without a doubt Pho 88 is my favourite spot for Vietnamese Pho noodles. If you want a truely authentic experience try the Bamburgh Circle location. It is not fancy at all and it's a bit of a drive from Yonge and Eglinton but worth every slupping bite. I always order #124 which is Spicy Beef.
270 Spadina Ave
Bamburgh Circle - Warden and Steeles
Without a doubt Pho 88 is my favourite spot for Vietnamese Pho noodles. If you want a truely authentic experience try the Bamburgh Circle location. It is not fancy at all and it's a bit of a drive from Yonge and Eglinton but worth every slupping bite. I always order #124 which is Spicy Beef.
One Restaurant
134 Yorkville Ave
Hazelton Hotel
416 961-9600
You are encouaged to share at One, which is a good thing because you will want to taste everything on the table. The food was deliciously simple but had complex flavours. The lobster was poached perfectly and the foie gras was amazing. You must make reservations since this is the hottest restaurant in TO right now. The atmosphere is a see and be seen so be sure to dress your Sunday best. Bring your wallet too, it comes with a Yorkville pricetag.
Hazelton Hotel
416 961-9600
You are encouaged to share at One, which is a good thing because you will want to taste everything on the table. The food was deliciously simple but had complex flavours. The lobster was poached perfectly and the foie gras was amazing. You must make reservations since this is the hottest restaurant in TO right now. The atmosphere is a see and be seen so be sure to dress your Sunday best. Bring your wallet too, it comes with a Yorkville pricetag.
Kultura, Downtown
169 King St., East
416 363-9000
I love the atmosphere at Kultura. Upstairs is modern and chic and they serve Asian infused dishes for sharing that are delicious. A very comfortable bar is downstairs and you can find all of your usual favourite drinks. I like the idea of being able to have dinner, followed by drinks all at the same venue. Kulture has a fun, New York-like atmosphere and the food alone is worth the trip.
416 363-9000
I love the atmosphere at Kultura. Upstairs is modern and chic and they serve Asian infused dishes for sharing that are delicious. A very comfortable bar is downstairs and you can find all of your usual favourite drinks. I like the idea of being able to have dinner, followed by drinks all at the same venue. Kulture has a fun, New York-like atmosphere and the food alone is worth the trip.
Far Niente, Downtown
187 Bay St
416 214-9922
It probably helped that when I recently went to Far Niente my good friend knew the Chef and all of the staff. That being said, the place was packed on a Tuesday night and the Chef assured me that the food was that good all the time. Renovated 2 years ago, the restaurant has a nice cozy feel. I imagine a big wonderful glass of red wine with my steak. The smoked salmon appetizer was delicious and my steak was perfectly cooked. It's a great choice for lunch or dinner.
416 214-9922
It probably helped that when I recently went to Far Niente my good friend knew the Chef and all of the staff. That being said, the place was packed on a Tuesday night and the Chef assured me that the food was that good all the time. Renovated 2 years ago, the restaurant has a nice cozy feel. I imagine a big wonderful glass of red wine with my steak. The smoked salmon appetizer was delicious and my steak was perfectly cooked. It's a great choice for lunch or dinner.
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