CAFÉ BOULUD
French/Contemporary

Celebrity Chef Daniel Boulud’s new restaurant sits proudly in the grand Four Seasons Hotel. Combining high-quality ingredients with a classic technique, the kitchen turns out up-market bistro dishes guaranteed to please. The poulet au vinaigre— a classic French dish from Lyon— features a perfectly roasted Chantecler chicken breast and leg stuffed with foie gras, tomato confit and tarragon. Enjoy exploring the a la carte menu divided into four sections based on Boulud’s “muses”: “la Tradition” (French cuisine), “la Saison” (seasonal produce), “le Potager” (the vegetable garden), and “le Voyage” (international flavours). As expected, desserts shine— the luxe touch of gold leaf on a rich brownie elegantly finishes off the meal.

In the Four Seasons Hotel, 60 Yorkville Avenue
(at Bay St.)      (416) 963-6000

LE PARADIS
French Bistro/Contemporary

This bustling bistro is the darling of designers, doyennes and tout cognoscenti; with vintage French posters and soft lighting setting the ambiance. Choose a seat at the zinc topped bar or directly across from an open kitchen, or perhaps upstairs to the quieter, more congenial bistro room. The kitchen delivers well-priced impeccable bistro cuisine such as plump Moules, garlicky Escargots, creamy Ris de Veau, as well as melt in your mouth fish dishes, well-seasoned grilled meats and some of the best crispy Frites found anywhere. Made in house desserts satisfy, with the seasonal Tarte Tatin as the top choice. The knowledgeable friendly staff are some of the best in the city. David Currie has a degree in wine and looks for French selections that are not first growths to add to the reasonably priced wine list. Wile away your time on the patios during the summertime.

166 Bedford Road
(between Davenport and Dupont)
(416) 921-0995

MIDEASTRO YORKVILLE
Mediterranean

Raves greeted this new addition to haute cuisine headed by talented chef Benny Cohen; diners declare Mideastro “the best price/quality ration in Toronto”. Start with smoky mashed eggplant, or their fantastic fried eggplant, silky beef carpaccio stuffed with truffled arugula or the freshest ceviche followed by sweet-spicy ground lamb on homemade flatbread or shrimp ravioli in a crab bisque. Leave room for their inventive desserts.

27 Yorkville Ave.       (416) 477-2427

MISTURA
Italian

At Mistura, popular, convivial chef- co-owner Massimo Capra turns out classic Northern Italian cuisine which clearly suits the well-heeled crowd enjoying an evening out. The generous spacing of tables in this gracious, airy room offers lots of elbow room and maneuverability, so lacking in most popular places. With excellent seasonal dishes, served by a friendly knowledgeable staff, it’s no wonder patrons keep coming back for more. A must try is the Wild Boar Agnolotti in a savoury sour cherry and brown butter sauce. The well-organized wine list clearly lists prices making it much easier when choosing and comparing wines. Partner Paulo Paulini roams the rooms making everyone feel like extended family.

265 Davenport Road (just west of Avenue Road)      (416) 515-0009

OPUS
French/Continental

Set in an elegant Yorkville townhouse that sets a very high standard of excellence for its health-conscious menu and skilled service. For Opus, "wine is as important as food", something to be taken seriously. The fresh cut flowers, original R.C. Gorman's and Erte's, artistic wine displays and soft lighting, combine to create a beautiful setting. The kitchen is noted for perfectly grilled meat, fish and fowl; tantalizing pastas and risottos, adventurous vegetables, and inventive desserts.

37 Prince Arthur Ave.       (416) 921-3105

PANGAEA
Fusion

A smart and stylish favourite of those seeking a dining experience of exquisite taste. Classic dishes are prepared with a modern visionary's aplomb, introducing flattering twists on many favourites. Land, sea and seasons are well-respected, as are the freshest vegetables and glorious game. Fish and seafood are the specialities, and receive TLC. Attention to detail and thoughtfulness extend to the marvelous desserts. The wine list featuring Italians and Burgundies, is full of unexpected treasures. Afternoon Tea, another specialty, is offered daily.

1221 Bay Street       (416) 920-2323

360 RESTAURANT

A team of chefs prepare their culinary magic at this "highest restaurant on the planet", 1100 feet above downtown Toronto. 360's philosophy is to use first-choice fresh Ontario produce, with the best ingredients Canada has to offer, and incorporate their own contemporary flair. At the centre of it all, the world's highest award-winning wine cellar, and 500-label wine list.

301 Front Street West       (416) 362-5411

ARIA
Italian

Popular Toronto restaurateurs Elena Morelli and Guido Alberto Saldini were invited to open a second restaurant next to the Air Canada Center. The interior space has floor-to-ceiling windows that stretch almost 30 feet high and include a two-story wine cellar. Aria's food has been winning raves. Highlights include Baby Cuttlefish with citrus, chilies and fresh marjoram, Grilled Octopus and warm panzanella salad, and the roasted Ontario Quails with bone marrow polenta, wild mushrooms and foie gras jus. Select the perfect wine from the large list and perhaps a grappa to end your meal.

25 York Street (south of Front Street)
(416) 363-2742

BARBERIAN'S
Steakhouse

Anyone seeking top quality well-aged beef grilled to perfection needs to head for this Toronto favorite. The charming old building is set on a quiet downtown street; inside courteous, professional staff welcomes diners in the warm, clubby rooms. The well-balanced menu also boasts succulent ribs, exquisite lamb, and all the usual seafood delights. The lusty cuisine is matched beautifully with wine by the glass or bottle, from one of Toronto’s most extensive wine cellar. Desserts also garner rave reviews.

7 Elm St. (just west of Yonge St.) (416) 597-0335

BAR ISABEL
Spanish

Toronto has been waiting for this– a hipster tapas bar as good as any in Madrid, with its curved ceilings and Mexican tiled floors– surprisingly located right in the middle of Little Italy. The lively clientele ranges from families to the bright younger crowd looking to hook up over intricate cocktails at the cherry wood bar. But it's the food that draws, including Devilled Eggs with home made Blood Sausage, heaping plates of Spanish cured meats, smoked Sweetbreads, Salt Cod, Raw Tuna, and perfect meaty grilled Octopus. Complete your meal with the Basque Cake and its creamy interior. Emphasis is on well priced Spanish and Portuguese wines, but the unusual beer choices and extensive cocktail list are definitely worth a look.

797 College Street     (416) 532-2222