Celebrity chef Claudio Aprile has done just about everything over four decades in Toronto’s food scene, from serving groundbreaking molecular gastronomy at the much-mourned Colborne Lane to judging “MasterChef Canada” for seven seasons.
Today, he has a new restaurant in the works and serves as culinary director of the Evolv Group, overseeing Di Mario’s Trattoria, Mademoiselle Raw Bar + Grill and Via Allegro Ristorante. Via Allegro, the Etobicoke institution, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and recently debuted a new tasting menu crafted daily based on market picks and curated to the table’s preferences.
He created it in tandem with executive chef Marco Zandona, who has helmed the kitchen at Via Allegro for two decades. “When I look back at my career, I see a chef who was focused on elevating. It was very self-centred,” he says. “My main focus now, and what truly drives me, is nurturing the next generation of chefs. Mentorship and leadership are at the forefront of everything I do.”
Want to go where Aprile goes? Check out his array of must-try restaurants and bars across the GTA.
Best date-night spot
Restaurant 20 Victoria, 20 Victoria St.
“I had a phenomenal meal here. Every single dish was pitch-perfect. I love how understated the restaurant is. The sleight of hand is what makes this place so incredible.”
Best bakery
The Sunshine Doughnut Co., 439 Brock Ave.
“Everyone who knows me knows I have an addiction to doughnuts. This little spot in Burlington makes the most amazing sugar twist doughnut.”
Hidden gem
No. 8 Restaurant, 446 Pearl St.
“This place truly embodies what it means to be a hidden gem. There’s so much care and dedication to the food here. It wouldn’t surprise me if this restaurant were acknowledged by Michelin.”
Repeat reservation
Terroni, various locations
“I love everything Terroni does, from their coffee to their bread. It’s obvious that they are on a mission to perfect what they do.”
Last best thing you ate
Côte de Bœuf, 130 Ossington Ave.
“A perfect midday break for me is the steak frites. The decor and the entire vibe are perfectly understated. It’s a great escape from the outside world.”
Fancy dinner
aKin, 51 Colborne St.
“I had an unforgettable dinner here. Eric Chong has come such a long way since his early, humble days as the first-ever winner of ‘MasterChef Canada.’ I believe he’s currently producing some of the most exciting food in Canada. His tasting menu tells a story — it takes you on a journey.”
Comfort food
Soma Chocolatemaker, various locations
“My love language and my comfort food have never changed: anything with chocolate! Soma’s milk chocolate is my go-to.”
Best dessert
Linny’s, 176 Ossington Ave.
“The babka is pure nostalgia. Great restaurant.”
Lunch spot
Pho Metro, various locations
“It’s incredible. I always order the same thing: H10, the curry brisket soup. It’s the best value in the city.”
Best late-night craving spot
Taste of China Seafood Restaurant, 338 Spadina Ave.
“I’m not much of a late-night eater anymore but when I decide to break my rules, it’s Taste of China.”
Best takeout
Pai Northern Thai Kitchen, various locations
“Their bright, bold flavours are always amazing. The massaman curry is addictive. Chef Nuit is the queen of Thai food.”
Favourite weekend breakfast place
Kerr Street Cafe, 298 Kerr St.
“My order switches from the avo toast to the chia pudding, depending on my mood.”
Best cocktail bar
Bar Pompette, 607 College St.
“Here’s the setting: a super hot August late afternoon on College Street. Paloma Quemada. By night, it’s always an old fashioned.”
