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Toronto / Dining


 

There’s no sign outside this elegant new eatery, but it won’t go undiscovered for long. The long, narrow room plays a Middle Eastern tune. The menu even includes a glossary highlighting unfamiliar ingredients. Mains are stellar, from fragrant lamb tagine and veg draped over pearl couscous to plump shrimp sitting atop an earthy bulgur risotto. A baker’s dozen of evenly-priced wines complements the fine food. Service is gracious and efficient.

 

In the midst of a street crowded with restaurants near the Eaton Centre, this smart, Portugal-centred spot is often packed. Three cosy booths seat up to five, and a corner table offers a commanding view. Strengths include fresh fish, delicate grilled sardines and lobster. Rack of lamb has a macadamia crust and a port wine jus. Skip dessert and end with a glass of good Port. Excellent servers will guide you through the lengthy Portuguese wine list.

 

A secluded cottage exuding French country charm, ideal for celebratory dinners. Wood fires in winter and a lovely summer terrace with gardens and fountains, ensure a warm and welcoming ambience year-round. The menu leans to contemporary French with butter-poached lobster meat, rich and succulent, floating in a Riesling nage with vegetable threads. Swiss chard wraps impeccably tender lamb loin over lentils, while grilled striploin steak arrives with fruits, wild mushrooms and a garlicky rouille. On-premise parking is a bonus.

 

Blooming orchids, lingering incense, the trickle of a stream beside your table: all conspire to transport you to dreamy Thailand in this stunning two-level space. Main courses are divided into hot, salty, sour and sweet, to simplify ordering of an authentic meal. Memorable dishes include roast kingfish in a fiery green chilli sauce strewn with Thai basil or crab Pad Thai. Attentive servers deliver steaming jasmine rice. Choose from a list of thoughtful wines or Thai Singha beer.

 

Beloved Lyonnais chef JP Challet has recreated a corner of Southern France in his cosy basement wine bar. The menu details nine categories of small portions from which to fashion a meal or a late-night bite at the bar. From the 'Heaven’ section, beef bourguignon melts in the mouth and tea-encrusted rack of lamb is a signature dish. Desserts are not a strong point. French wines predominate, bien sûr! Be warned – tiny tables and intimate seating are not suited to sensitive discussions. Closed Sunday and Monday.

 
 
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