Belgian waffles at Le Petit Dejeuner or steamed buns at Bannock’s? How about an event at the Market Kitchen’s Miele Gallery at the historic St. Lawrence Market, one of the world’s greatest food halls? Toronto hotel concierges and locals on the street were quick to point out the tastiest spots during my recent visit, including favorites like the Carousel Bakery at St. Lawrence Market, reportedly the go-to place for the city’s signature peameal bacon sandwich.
While the list of suggestions was endless, here are four establishments I did experience, and they are all prime.
Just west of downtown in Etobicoke, Cirillo’s Culinary Academy (www.cirillosacademy.com) is a superb choice for corporate, social and incentive gatherings. After Executive Chef John Cirillo and Chef Instructor Terry Port engaged in a lively Iron Chef-style competition in the gleaming kitchen, our group broke into teams and chopped, sauteed, grilled and plated the dinner, which we then enjoyed—with much champagne and wine—at an elegantly set communal table. The raucous shuttle ride back to Toronto said it all.
Brad and Angie have dined here, Clooney too—and you’ll feel like a celeb at Sassafraz (www.sassafraz.ca) in posh Yorkville, the “Rodeo Drive” of Toronto. From the salmon tartare appetizer to the artisanal Canadian cheese dessert and the wild mushroom agnolotti in between, the market-driven Canadian menu was hands down the best taste experience I’ve had in ages. Consummate service, fine wine and great cocktails also make this landmark Victorian-style “little yellow house” a winner. Group rental options include an intimate dining table on a balcony overhanging the main floor and private second-floor space.
So you say you love wine and cheese served in a ritzy but casual atmosphere? I’ve got the place for you: TOCA (www.tocarestaurant.com). Helmed by veteran Toronto-born Executive Chef Tom Brodi, the signature restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto features a glassed-in cheese cave in the main room and showcase collection of Canadian wines adjacent to the spacious private dining room. There’s also a chef’s table in the open-concept kitchen, where groups can interact with the chefs as they prepare classic Canadian fare from homegrown, sustainable ingredients, like the highly satisfying heirloom tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich.
We started our Toronto adventure at the Moroccan-style BerBer Resto Bar Lounge (www.berberlounge.ca). Specializing in French Moroccan cuisine, the restaurant’s main dining area is organized into snug canopy-tented clusters, and the Sultan’s Tent concept is a fun way to bring groups together—especially when the belly dancers draw you out of your seat and onto the dance floor.
