SALT WINE BAR
Spanish

Chef Dave Kemp uses mainly seasonal local products in his eclectic menu featuring a concise selection of Canadian/Iberian tapas. Located at the top of the trendy Ossington strip, this cozy sixty-seat restaurant boasts snack-sized dishes that satisfies – without taking a bite out of your wallet. Start with the Iberian charcuterie such as exquisite Jamon Iberico and Venison Sausage. Move on to the sublime Pork Belly Tacos, Octopus, the crisp-skinned Duck Confit Gnochi or dry aged Ribeye. A well balanced wine list offers extensive choices of reasonably priced Spanish and Portuguese wines. The inventive cocktail list is worth sampling. Salt's crowd pleasing cuisine and warm, knowledgeable service will leave you saying "El gusto es mio" or "The pleasure is mine".

225 Ossington Avenue      (416) 533-7258

SUSHI KAJI
Japanese

It's no secret that Sushi Kaji has the best sushi in the G.T.A. This is traditional Japanese cuisine, so leave thoughts of syrupy teriyaki sauce and California Rolls behind. Instead, there's Lobster Tail Sashimi, and flavourful cooked items like Eel poached in vinegar accompanied by Pork Belly. Diners choose between three Omakase menus priced at $80, $100 and $120, depending on the number and type of dishes desired, and the kitchen designs the menu. Expect a number of small plates, with Sashimi and Sushi platters nestled in, followed by desserts such as Green Tea Crème Brûlée. Japanese beer or sake pairings are recommended, but cost extra. The menu changes frequently according to chef Mitsushiro Kaji’s mood, and whatever fish and produce has been flown in from Tokyo that morning. While dishes are plentiful, they are small and light, leaving diners sated and feeling that they have experienced the most inspired Japanese dishes in the country.

860 The Queensway      (416) 252-2166

TASTE OF CHINA
Chinese

Heavenly food has returned at last to Spadina Avenue. This Hong Kong-style seafood restaurant looks ordinary from the outside, but inside are some of the freshest, most perfectly cooked seafood this side of Vancouver. Knowledgeable servers might suggest live, sweet B.C, spot prawns, giant crab or razor clams which are expertly prepared by the skillful kitchen. While fresh seafood is the star, other dishes get high marks including the always popular General Tso’s Chicken, and cognoscenti rave about the silky-crunchy tofu. Added benefit: they're open until 4:30am.

338 Spadina Ave.      (416) 348-8828

THE CHASE
Contemporary

There's informal seafood dining on the ground floor. But on the fifth floor, prepare to be seduced by the casual elegance and spectacular food – with prices to match. This is a big spenders paradise, and it delivers. With an emphasis on fine dining, highlights of the dashing menu include a whole roasted Chicken with fois gras, prunes and Armagnac, the melt in your mouth Arctic Char and Sea Bream. An abundant "Pearl Platter" dares you to eat all the oysters, crab salad, scallop ceviche, poached shrimp and big eye tuna placed before you. Veal tenderloin or Rack of Lamb are prepared to perfection. Be sure to leave room for their artisanal cheeses or mouthwatering desserts. Some of the most knowledgeable staff in the city are there to serve. Sommelier Anton Potvin focuses on Old World wines, and there are some amazing bargains to be had.

10 Temperance Street       (647) 348-7000

TORITO
Spanish, Tapas

Be part of the lively pulse of Kensington Market from Torito’s street patio, while enjoying a variety of tapas matched with Toronto’s best assortment of Spanish Sherries and wines. Or step inside to enjoy mouth watering, delicious small dishes delivered by the friendly, efficient staff. Those in the know move on through to grab a table on the quiet comfortable outdoor patio in the back. Wherever you chose to sit, your experience will be well worth the visit.

276 Augusta Ave. (south of College St.)
(416) 961-7373

TUTTI MATTI
Italian

Tutti Matti means “Everybody’s crazy”, and one has to be to not return again and again for Chef Alida Solomon’s cooking. She prepares comforting dishes which include a range of in-house made Pastas and special seasonal dishes; call ahead in the summer to try the stuffed Zucchini flowers, or Polpetta, and hearty soups in the winter. This is authentic Tuscan cooking at its best. Well chosen regional wines.

364 Adelaide St. W. (at Charlotte St.)
(416) 597-8839