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.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
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.
Jamie Kennedy Restaurants
Wine Bar & Restaurant - 9 Church St.
Gardnier Museum - 111 Queens Park
416 362-1957
If you want a terrific Jamie Kennedy experience, have dinner at the Wine Bar. You will get the full hustle and bustle feeling of the kitchen. Expert Chefs will serve up a variety of tasty treats right in front of you. Jamie became well know for his fries, which is a shame because although they are great, the foie gras pate is my favourite. There is an extensive wine list to choose from and you can sample smaller glasses which is a real plus. If you want a formal experience, you can sit in the formal part of the restaurant but it's not as much fun.
The Gardnier Museum location is a lovely place to stop for lunch. Again, it's formal and maybe a little too sparse for my liking but the food is good.
I hear he's opening a Stadtlander-like spot in Prince Edward County. I look forward to trying it too.
Gardnier Museum - 111 Queens Park
416 362-1957
If you want a terrific Jamie Kennedy experience, have dinner at the Wine Bar. You will get the full hustle and bustle feeling of the kitchen. Expert Chefs will serve up a variety of tasty treats right in front of you. Jamie became well know for his fries, which is a shame because although they are great, the foie gras pate is my favourite. There is an extensive wine list to choose from and you can sample smaller glasses which is a real plus. If you want a formal experience, you can sit in the formal part of the restaurant but it's not as much fun.
The Gardnier Museum location is a lovely place to stop for lunch. Again, it's formal and maybe a little too sparse for my liking but the food is good.
I hear he's opening a Stadtlander-like spot in Prince Edward County. I look forward to trying it too.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Celestin, Mid-town
le comptoir de Celestin
623 Mt. Pleasant Road
416 544-1733
I have been to Celestin twice and my husband and I really enjoyed both visits. I wish they weren't quite so expensive or I would eat there much more often. I would highly recommend the foie gras. We had to fight over the last bite. I also had squab and it was excellent.
623 Mt. Pleasant Road
416 544-1733
I have been to Celestin twice and my husband and I really enjoyed both visits. I wish they weren't quite so expensive or I would eat there much more often. I would highly recommend the foie gras. We had to fight over the last bite. I also had squab and it was excellent.
About Cheese, Mid-town
About Cheese
3467 Yonge St. (just south of Yorkmills)
416 487-7768
I recently discovered About Cheese and what a find! Everything you wanted to know about cheese can be asked and answered here. They will help you organize the perfect cheese platter or you can come in for a cheese tasting. The best thing about this cheese shop is that they will offer up opportunities to taste different cheeses. I have discovered many new favourites this way.
3467 Yonge St. (just south of Yorkmills)
416 487-7768
I recently discovered About Cheese and what a find! Everything you wanted to know about cheese can be asked and answered here. They will help you organize the perfect cheese platter or you can come in for a cheese tasting. The best thing about this cheese shop is that they will offer up opportunities to taste different cheeses. I have discovered many new favourites this way.
Thuet Bistro and Bakery, Downtown
Thuet Bistro and Bakery
609 King St. West
416 603-2847
www.thuet.ca
I love French food and Chef Thuet is committed to bring us the very finest French food. On my last visit I sampled Wagyu beef from Japan and what a treat that was. As some point you will want to take on the 5 or 8 course tasting menu. I always choose the 8 because I am afraid I might miss something amazing. Some of my favourites from the regular menu include the Beef Tartare and anything made with Foie Gras is always terrific. It is expensive but worth it. Be sure to check out the artwork in the ladies washroom. I always admire the shoes.
Atelier Thuet was recently opened in Liberty Village (171 East Liberty St.) so if you are going to attempt a Thuet-like menu at home, this is the place to go.
609 King St. West
416 603-2847
www.thuet.ca
I love French food and Chef Thuet is committed to bring us the very finest French food. On my last visit I sampled Wagyu beef from Japan and what a treat that was. As some point you will want to take on the 5 or 8 course tasting menu. I always choose the 8 because I am afraid I might miss something amazing. Some of my favourites from the regular menu include the Beef Tartare and anything made with Foie Gras is always terrific. It is expensive but worth it. Be sure to check out the artwork in the ladies washroom. I always admire the shoes.
Atelier Thuet was recently opened in Liberty Village (171 East Liberty St.) so if you are going to attempt a Thuet-like menu at home, this is the place to go.
7 Numbers, Mid-town/ Danforth
7 Numbers
307Danforth Ave, 416-469-5183
516 Eglington Ave West, 416-322-5183
www.sevennumbers.com
I have been going to 7 numbers for the past 10 years and it will always remain one of my favourite Italian restaurants. Rosa and Tony will chef up their home style Italian fare for a very reasonable price. I always order the calamari and lasagne. The pasta and sauce are made fresh everyday. Be sure to order a bottle of Wildass Red wine to go with your many courses. I guarantee you will love it here as much as I do.
307Danforth Ave, 416-469-5183
516 Eglington Ave West, 416-322-5183
www.sevennumbers.com
I have been going to 7 numbers for the past 10 years and it will always remain one of my favourite Italian restaurants. Rosa and Tony will chef up their home style Italian fare for a very reasonable price. I always order the calamari and lasagne. The pasta and sauce are made fresh everyday. Be sure to order a bottle of Wildass Red wine to go with your many courses. I guarantee you will love it here as much as I do.
Welcome to Eating With Ally
Hi, I'm Ally! I wanted to start this blog because people are always asking me for restaurant recommendations. I believe that Toronto has some of the world's best restaurants. Hopefully my site will encouarge you to try somewhere new.
Bon Appetit!
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