Mercatto is one of Toronto’s most popular Italian eateries, with four locations across the city — and now a fifth: Mercatto Centrale in Port Credit. As corporate chef for Alter Ego Restaurant Group, Doug Neigel oversees the Mercatto empire, along with other Italian favourites like La Palma and Occhiolino.
When it comes to steering the chain, Neigel savours simplicity. “It is not about overcomplicating things,” he says. “It is about doing the basics exceptionally well and creating a space people genuinely want to come back to.” This results in a menu packed with comfort classics like their fan-favourite pan-seared lasagna, along with new Mercatto Centrale dishes like a short-rib brisket burger (ground in-house) and the perfect stack of fluffy blueberry pancakes.
So where does Neigel go when he wants something that is simply delicious? Here are some of his favourite spots to eat and drink in our fair city.
Best date-night spot
Bar Pompette, 607 College St.
“It’s one of our favourite places to go for a cocktail and we always start our date nights there for a martini or two.”
Best bakery
Forno Cultura, various locations
“You can’t go wrong with their pesche dolci.”
Hidden gem
Ariete e Toro, various locations
“I recently moved to midtown and have been exploring a lot more in the area. This place has become a go-to; I always order the Enzo.”
Repeat reservation
Bar Isabel, 797 College St.
“I always find myself going back here. It works just as well for a spontaneous walk-in as it does for a special occasion and the consistency is what keeps me coming back.”
The last best thing you ate
Good Bite Restaurant, 2463 Yonge St.
“Blueberry pancakes have been on my mind a lot lately. I’ve been deep in testing for our brunch menu, trying different variations, and I keep coming back to blueberry. Some of the best I’ve had recently were the ones they make here.”
Current obsession
Jollibee, various locations
“I was genuinely surprised by how consistent their fried chicken is. The gravy is lighter than you’d expect but really addictive. I liked it so much I ordered it again two days later.”
Fancy dinner
“I recently went here for my anniversary and it was an incredible experience. The level of detail, from the food to the service, made the occasion that much more memorable.”
Comfort food
Heavenly Perogy, 400 Bathurst St.
“They’re always homemade, and come with onions, bacon and sour cream. It’s simple, nostalgic and something I never get tired of.”
Best dessert
Scaramouche Restaurant, 1 Benvenuto Pl.
“The coconut cream pie is hard to beat. It’s a classic for a reason and something I go back to often.”
Lunch spot
The Burger Shack, 233 Eglinton Ave. W.
“Since moving to midtown, I’ve been going for the home burger with onion rings and a chocolate shake. It’s my happy place.”
Best late-night craving spot
416 Snack Bar, 181 Bathurst St.
“It’s always good for later-night nibbles, unfiltered beer and fun snacks.”
Best takeout
Aloette Go, various locations
“I order from here quite a bit. When you’re opening restaurants, you don’t always have time to go out, so having reliable options you can count on is key.”
Favourite weekend brunch place
Le Sélect Bistro, 432 Wellington St. W.
“It’s my go-to for brunch. I’ll start with the chilled seafood, go into eggs benedict and, of course, a glass of champagne to wash it down.”
Favourite coffee shop
Saving Gigi, 859 Bloor St. W.
“I’ll usually order a cortado.”
Best cocktail bar
Mother Cocktail Bar, 874 Queen St. W.
“Get the vesper martini. They take a lot of care with their drinks, and you can taste it.”
Place I’m dying to try
N.L. Ginzburg, 548 College St.
“This is at the top of my list right now. I’ve heard great things.”
