La Société

I was very excited to make way down to LA Société, a Parisian bistro, Located in Toronto's  Yorkville. Showcasing a beautiful stained glass ceiling, marble floors and Bloor-Yorkville's only street side patio. La Société features a menu of great elegance, creating classic dishes of modern day french cuisine.

My La société experience began with simple mimosa, made with fresh orange juice and champagne. This was followed by a lovely spiced granola with warm fruit, topped with plain yogurt. A perfect ratio of fruit to granola, both coming together perfectly. Not a heavy dish yet very satisfying. A great beginning to my dining experience at La Société.

Next I choose the Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes. I must say, these were the most amazing Pancakes I have ever eaten. Light Blueberry Ricotta cakes, topped with warm Blueberry compote, whipped cream and dusted with icing sugar. A blissful take on a simple dish. Definitely a must have when visiting La Société. I would consider this to be their most prized possession during brunch hours. Each bite is just as lovely as the first. Well done!

I could not leave La Société without dessert, and believe me, I made the best decision in doing so. I choose the "White Chocolate-Passion fruit", Guava and Passion fruit sorbet, served with passion fruit gelée, granola and white chocolate cream. Appealing not only to the eye, but also to taste. A wonderful creation, which comes together harmoniously. Given the acidity of the passion fruit gelée, the white chocolate cream balances out this dessert perfectly. Very pleased with this dish, and also highly recommended.

Executive Chef Romain Avril brings forth a menu of excellence and great thought. Not only focusing on what is visible to the eye, but also focusing on tantalizing the palates of those who dine at La Société. My server Micheal was just wonderful, polite and very attentive. I believe it is safe to deem myself part of the Parisian cuisine society, as I will be returning back in definite to La Société. Until then, here are my ratings on this restaurant.

Overall Experience: 4/5
Ambiance: 4/5
Service: 4/5
Food Presentation: 5/5
Taste: 5/5
Location: 4/5

Address:
131 Bloor Street West, #211
Toronto, ON, M5S 1R1

Phone number:
416-551-9929

Website:
http://lasociete.ca

ONE Restaurant

ONE restaurant was my next fine dining experience option. Located in the heart of Yorkville, in the Hazleton hotel, ONE offers a classic-modern take on Italian and french cuisine. Surrounded by dim lightning throughout, with smoky glass panels and a large lounge, one restaurant brings forth a relaxed environment for those hoping to end a long day on a good note.

My ONE experience began ordering a lovely cocktail listed as "Strawberry bubbles" on the menu. Sparkling wine, with strawberry infused ketel vodka, fresh strawberries and chambord. This cocktail was both light and fruity, with a perfect balanced sweet level. The Strawberry bubbles cocktail was the right way to begin my dining experience at ONE.

The Lobster spoons is what was chosen as my appetizer. Tender butter braised lobster and vermouth. Lush, inviting and flavorsome. The lobster was cooked very well and melted like butter on my palate. My absolute favorite dish of the evening. A dish I recommend all to try when visiting this restaurant.

I had then chose the Ricotta Gnocchi as my main. Served in a black pepper cream sauce with spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Finished with black truffle. I must say the gnocchi was a little too soft, and had very mild flavor. Acceptable to the palate, however; I was slightly dissatisfied, not to mention there were more mushrooms in the dish than gnocchi. This was a miss for me.

Lastly, I chose the vanilla créme brûlée with jelly doughnuts. I looked forward to this dish, and was looking forward to ending the evening on a good note. However; this too was also a disappointing dish. The sugar on the créme brûlée was served burned, and although I tried my best to eat around it, I was not at all satisfied. Nonetheless, the jelly doughnuts were toothsome and very much enjoyed, which made a huge difference in what was lacked both in presentation and flavor of the brûlée.

Chef Marc McEwen and executive chef Andrew Ellerby present a menu suitable a night on the town, offering a variety of choice. However, I do hope to see in the future each dish executed to its full potential as I do believe they have much more to offer when it comes to Toronto's fine dining. For now, ONE restaurant is not one I would include on my favorites, but Marc McEwen does have many more restaurants I look forward to visiting. You'll just have to wait and see which one I choose next! Until next time, below are my ratings on ONE restaurant.

Overall Experience - 3/5
Ambiance - 4/5
Service - 2.5/5
Food Presentation - 3/5
Taste - 2.5/5
Location - 4/5

Address:
116 Yorkville Ave,
Toronto, ON M5R 1H5

Phone number:
416-961-9600

Website:
one.mcewangroup.ca

Sassafraz Restaurant

Last Wednesday I was thrilled to dine at the big yellow house on the corner, also known as Sassafraz. Located in the heart of Yorkville, Toronto. Sassafraz brings forth a menu which offers contemporary french cuisine and extensive wine list, in modern elegance with a lovely ecosystem wall, bringing forth a warm inviting feel. Sassafraz, also spelt sassafras, is known to be a yellow wood tree with brittle wood and aromatic leaves. This may also be the reason behind the exterior of the restaurant being beautifully painted yellow, which is not only eye catching, but will attract anyone who walks by.

I began my Sassafraz experience ordering a white sangria cocktail. The sangria was mixted with cattail creek sauvignon blanc, apricot brandy, lemonade and a medley of fresh fruits. This cocktail was both light and refreshing, and the flavors mellowed well together.

I ordered the watercress and rocket salad for my appetizer. A blend of watercress and arugula, topped with grapefruit, shredded coconut and cumin cashews. Pleasantly enjoyable, the grapefruit and coconut add an enjoyable sweetness to the salad, balancing out the spicy and pepper tones given from the watercress and arugula. The cashews added the necessary texture, which completed the salad as the flavors harmonized well together. A must for all salad lovers when visiting this restaurant.

The torchietti was what I chose for my main. Tossed in a kale pesto, with yellow peppers and topped with shaved almonds and mimolette. A delightful blend of flavors, the kale pesto was well executed, better than any I have had. While the almonds and mimolette added the perfect balance and texture. My favorite dish of the evening.

Dessert was difficult to choose as there were many options to choose from. My guests and I each ordered a dessert, from there we were able to determine which one we enjoyed most. The desserts in which we chose were named: Chocolate, trio of créme brûlée, the donuts and a lovely complimentary dessert named the apple.

Chocolate- A warm chocolate cake, served with vanilla ice cream and a lime pistachio marshmallow lollipop. The marshmallow was unique idea and very much enjoyed. I do however believe the chocolate cake could have had a little more chocolate as I do feel it did lack the chocolate taste we all enjoy, when we think of chocolate cake. All in all it was an enjoyable dish, all it needs is a little more cocoa love.

Trio of créme brûlée- Baileys with peppermint crunch, topped with a fresh strawberry, I found this brûlée to be very light in flavor, did not taste any flavor of baileys in this brûlée, however I did get a slight hit of peppermint, but in all the flavors were very mellow and lacked in execution. The white chocolate and oreo crumble did not do much for my palate, found it to be very insipid and was a miss for me. Perhaps a little more of the white chocolate could be used to bring out the flavor, which may help execute this brûlée. Lastly, the maple brûlée with ginger snap, my number one choice of this dish. A wonderful choice of vivid flavors which came together. A perfect balance between the maple and the ginger snap. I believe this brûlée should be served on its own, and I look forward to hopefully seeing it that way in the near future. It's brilliant!

Donuts- Spanish churros finished in cinnamon and sugar, also served with cajeta and chocolate chili. My absolute favorite dessert of the night. I enjoy churros and these were executed perfectly. Light, warm and tasteful. Yet, not too sweet, not to mention the chocolate chili and cajeta add excitement to the dish, instead of just being severed a ordinary churro. A must try when visiting Sassafraz!

* Complimentary dessert *
Apple- A warm apple bread pudding, served with a sour cream ice cream and a whiskey caramel sauce. I must say this dessert was a miss for me, I did not quite understand the flavors between the bread pudding and the whiskey sauce. They did not harmonize well together. I found there to be a little too much cinnamon than needed for this dessert, while the sauce would have served well without the whiskey component of the sauce. However; I did very much appreciate the complimentary dessert, not to mention the complimentary chocolates which were served at the end of my Sassafraz dining experience. I do thank you all!

Executive chef Geoff Webb brings forth compassion in his menu. Executing the appeal and comfort of contemporary french cuisine being both delectable and healthy. My server Gio was lovely and sweet natured. All staff and manager were also very attentive. It goes without saying I will definitely be returning to Sassafraz for another enjoyable experience. Without further adieu here are my ratings on this restaurant.

Overall Experience: 4/5
Ambiance: 5/5
Service: 4/5
Food Presentation: 4/5
Taste: 4/5
Location: 5/5

Address:
100 Cumberland Street,
Toronto, ON M5R 1A6

Phone number:
416-964-2222

Website:
http://www.sassafraz.ca

MoRoCo Chocolat

This past Saturday I woke up excited to dine at MoRoCo Chocolat for brunch. Located in the heart of Yorkville Toronto, MoRoCo Chocolat is a fine dining restaurant which also offers gourmet chocolate and confections. Opened in September 2008, MoRoCo Chocolat presents a menu of contemporary french cuisine, in a modern-classic, yet some what whimsical ambiance, which would have anyone who wishes to dine there feel comfortable not matter what time of day.

I began my Saturday brunch with a lovely latté, which was served with a peppermint macaron. I was pleased with the choice of the macaron as it presented itself as a "breath fresher", after drinking the latté. Genius!

I then ordered the red velvet pancakes, which were layered with cream and topped with fresh strawberries and a raspberry sauce. Wonderfully light and delectable, which would satisfy any pancake craving one may have. Definitely my favorite dish and a MUST try when visiting this restaurant.

I had then proceeded to order a croissant, lightly dusted with confectionery sugar and served with a side of berry jam. Baked with a crispy golden crust and a beautiful butter flaky interior.

Moroco carrot cake is what I had ordered to end my MoRoCo Chocolat experience. A decadent roulade of carrot cake, with a lemon cream cheese icing. Served with a vanilla swiss meringue and topped with a butterscotch sauce. Pleasantly light and heavenly, not too sweet and the perfect dish to end my dining experience!

MoRoCo Chocolat continues to bring forth new and wonderful experiences to the world of all chocolate lovers and beyond. Offering a wide range of dishes from brunch to dinner; afternoon tea, dessert and luxurious treats which can be found in their confectionery boutique. Although my experience was highly positive, I would like to see some alternative options on their menu for those who do not eat swine. Perhaps turkey or chicken bacon and sausages as a side option on the brunch menu. Nevertheless; Chef Mustapha El Misbahy executes the menu exceptionally well, and I am very pleased to say I will definitely return for many more MoRoCo Chocolat experiences. Not to mention I also left with gluten free chocolate chip cookies and a few macarons (red velvet, salty caramel and pistachio) which were all deliciously scrumptious! Below are my ratings on MoRoCo Chocolat, until next time! *Cheers*

Overall Experience: 4.5/5
Ambiance: 5/5
Service: 4/5
Food Presentation: 5/5
Taste: 5/5
Location: 4.5/5

Address:
99 Yorkville Avenue,
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 3K3

Phone number:
(416) 961-2202

Website:
http://www.morocochocolat.com

Far Niente Restaurant

About a week and a half ago I finally made my way over to Far Niente restaurant. Yes, my post is late, however late is better than never! I have wanted to dine at this restaurant for quite some time, and can definitely say I was very glad to do so. Far Niente which in english stands for "doing nothing", is located in downtown Toronto's financial district, which offers contemporary cuisine in an open concept, yet intimate and elegant atmosphere.

I began my Far Niente experience ordering a bartenders choice seasonal inspired cocktail, which I believe was listed as the "Radler" on their menu. This cocktail included a mix of draught lager and a grapefruit eucalyptus tea infusion. Because I am not a fan of lager, I found this cocktail to be a bit harsh for my palate. However, it did have citric tone which I appreciated and I believe those who enjoy drought lager may enjoy this cocktail.

I then proceeded to order the seared sea scallops, which laid on a bed of banana peppers and pomegranate glaze. An alluring dish with bright flavors and scallops which were cooked perfectly. Definitely a must try when visiting this restaurant.

For my main I ordered the togarashi crusted salmon, which came with a side of asparagus and roast potatoes. Perfectly seasoned, flavorful and tender. The side of roast potatoes did not do much for this dish, and I do believe serving the salmon with the asparagus alone would have sufficed. Better yet, a healthier option -sweet potatoes- would have paired well with this dish also.

As my night out came to an end I saved the best for last, ordering the Far Niente chocolate s'mores. Homemade marshmallow, dark chocolate chip brownie, lindt chocolate ice cream. All which laid on a decadent chocolate mousse, was topped with cinnamon graham crumble and a side of berries. I must say, this was the best dessert I have had in a long while. The most appealing dish of the night, a dulcet yet, blissful dish which brings back old memories shared by the campfire, only instead it is served in a more modern, unconventional way at the Far Niente restaurant.

Far Niente has been acknowledged to be one of North America's distinguished restaurants. Executive chef Jordan St.Amand does an amazing job executing his menu, not only are his dishes appealing to the eye, they are also pleasing to the palate. You are able to taste his admiration for the food he prepares and I will definitely return to this restaurant. Although I would like to be "doing nothing", I have many more restaurants to visit and plenty more research to do! But for now here are my ratings for this restaurant.

Overall Experience: 4/5
Ambiance: 4/5
Service: 4/5
Food Presentation: 5/5
Taste: 4/5
Location: 5/5

Address:
187 Bay St,
Toronto, ON M5L 1G5, Canada

Phone number:
416-214-9922

Website:
http://www.farnienterestaurant.com/

Nota Bene Restaurant

This past Friday I decided to experience the restaurant "Nota Bene", which is located minutes away from Downtown Toronto's theatre district. Opened in 2008, Nota Bene has been voted one of Canada's top ten restaurants by numerous magazines. This restaurant offers fresh and seasonal Canadian cuisine, which is affordable and perfect for shoppers looking to experience an amazing lunch at a decent price.

I began my lunch ordering the watermelon honey crush. A light and refreshing drink made with crushed ice, watermelon and honey. Very pleasant to the palate.

To start I choose the french onion rings, done in a light batter and topped with sea salt. Well seasoned, crisp and flavorsome. Absolutely the best onion rings I have had by far, this was indeed my favorite dish.

The Ricotta ravioli, with zucchini flowers and shaved truffle, is what was chosen for my main. This dish consisted of mellow flavors, however the pasta was cooked perfectly and very delicious, everything was well presented and up to par. I do however wish they served more on this dish, as what was served did no just.

Dessert was the white chocolate chip cookie, served with Ontario sour cherries and vanilla ice cream. This dessert was heavenly, just the right amount of sweet to satisfy any craving, although I must add the sour cherries were not needed. A different choice of fruit -raspberries perhaps- would have served well with the dish instead.

Nota Bene brings forth a modern atmosphere. Relaxed and the perfect place for any "foodie"! to enjoy lunch or dinner. Executive Chef David Lee presents an amazing menu and I will definitely be eating at Nota Bene again. Until then "take note" on my ratings for this restaurant.

Overall Experience - 4/5
Ambiance - 4/5
Service - 4/5
Food Presentation - 4/5
Taste - 4/5
Location - 4/5

Address:
180 Queen St W,
Toronto, ON M5V 3X3, Canada

Phone number:
416-977-6400

Website: http://notabenerestaurant.com