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Colborne Lane This
modern, post-industrial restaurant is a mecca for lovers of molecular
gastronomy, and Claudio Aprile is Toronto’s most proficient and
enigmatic culinary maestro. His tasting menu, bursting with delicious
surprises, is a must. Both Food & Wine Magazine and Condé Nast Traveler voted Colborne Lane as one of the most exciting new restaurants in the world. 45 Colborne St 416 368 9009
The Fifth This
restaurant styles itself as a club (and yes, non-members do pay
slightly more); the freight-elevator ride to the fifth floor loft only
adds to the exclusive feel of the place. A prix fixe menu favors French classics such as foie gras,
duck breast, and langoustine. In winter, candles, fireplace, and
couches make things lavishly cozy. In summer, try for a table on the
rooftop terrace. 225 Richmond St W 416 979 3005
Canoe Stellar
views from the 54th floor of the Toronto Dominion Bank Tower make this
one of the most enchanting rooms in the city. Lunchtime business crowds
may close deals over lobster clubhouse sandwiches on brioche, but the
evening ambience is decidedly more romantic. Menu mainstays include
quintessentially Canadian caribou and bison .
Canoe
Starfish This
low-key, sophisticated restaurant specializes in fish and seafood,
particularly oysters – almost 20 varieties of them, with fresh French
oysters on Thursdays. Preparations such as lobster bisque give a nod to
Gallic cooking, with its classically complex flavors. Save room for
dessert, all of which are excellent. The reasonably priced wine list is
mainly French .
Starfish’s catch of the day
Senses Presentation
is at its artful best at this exquisite restaurant, where beauty
matches flavor to titillate all the senses. Chef Claudio Aprile’s
tasting menu mixes Asian, Latin, and French elements to delightful
effect, with many vegetarian-friendly choices. Scrumptious desserts. 328 Wellington St W 416 935 0400
Senses
Chiado Dine
on the freshest fish and seafood to be had in the city, flown in from
the world’s wharfs daily and transformed into the most luxurious of
Portuguese fare. The wine list is replete with unusual offerings which
the waitstaff are expert at elucidating and pairing with dishes. Try
wines by the glass at the tapas-style wine bar, Senhor Antonio, in the
restaurant’s cozy annex addition, where cheaper prices mean some of the
best value in town. 864 College St 416 538 1910
Chiado
Sushi Kaji Masterful
chef Mitsuhiro Kaji creates the city’s premiere Japanese cuisine at
this farwestend restaurant. There are two private rooms, but better to
perch at the eight-seat sushi bar to enjoy the food-as-theater
experience. Premium sakes are the perfect accompaniment to excellent –
and generously portioned – sushi, sashimi, and creative cooked offerings .
Lai Wah Heen With
exceptional Cantonese cuisine, this elegant two-level restaurant in the
Metropolitan Hotel redefines and updates classic Chinese fare. Haute
details include silver chopstick rests and starched linens on the round
tables, which are suitable for large groups and conducive to sharing
(smaller tables also available). Sunday dim sum is particularly popular. 108 Chestnut St 416 977 9899
Noce This
intimate restaurant serves marvelous Italian food, delivered with
welcoming, friendly service. The homemade pasta specials are always
superb, as are grilled and roasted meats. The summer patio is great for
al fresco dining. 875 Queen St W 416 504 3463
Ultra Supper Club This
elegantly appointed eatery strikes a fashionable balance between
restaurant and nightclub. Chef Chris Zielinski’s ambitious menu places
emphasis on seasonality and originality. Enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop
terrace in summer. 314 Queen St W 416 263 0330
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