Cory Vitiello has been a mainstay on Toronto’s culinary scene for two decades, presiding over The Drake’s early-era kitchen then opening The Harbord Room and Flock. Now, he’s director of culinary and concept at the LFG Growth Partners hospitality group, where he does double duty with culinary development for contemporary fine-dining spot The Chase.
Toronto’s a great food city, according to Vitiello, because it supports entrepreneurs like him. “It’s full of diverse communities, super-talented people, and guests who actually show up and support,” he says. “Every neighbourhood has its own vibe, and the city has local, independent restaurants as well as anywhere in the world. There’s real energy here for building something unique.”
He digs the vibe at The Chase, which he dubs refined but relaxed, “with a focus on great ingredients, warm hospitality, and a team that really knows their craft — what makes it stand out in Toronto is the balance; it’s elevated without being stuffy.”
The restaurant closest to his heart these days, however, doesn’t even exist yet. Currently, he’s building out a new restaurant on the main floor of 10 Temperance St., and, he says, it’s a totally different vibe from The Chase. “It’s more casual, but still polished and ingredient-driven. We’re putting a lot of thought into every detail: the food, the room, the energy,” he says. “It’s a chance to build something from the ground up that complements what we do upstairs but also stands on its own.”
In the meantime, here’s where Vitiello goes for a damn good meal.
Bar Prima, 1136 Queen St. W.
“It’s close to home and completely transformative when you step through the doors off Queen West.”
Kunafa’s, 1801 Lawrence Ave. E.
“Any time I find myself in Scarborough, it’s a trip to Kunafa’s for just that.”
Stop Restaurant, 397 Roncesvalles Ave.
“Located on Roncy, it’s the quintessential neighbourhood restaurant. Get the borscht; it’s my wife’s fave restaurant in the city and for good reason.”
Giulietta, 972 College St.
“It is our local spot most visited; they treat my son like a king, and the service and food never miss.”
The last best thing you ate
Barberian’s Steak House, 7 Elm St.
“I took my team to Barberian’s for dinner a few weeks back, and their rib steak grilled over live fire was one of best pieces of meat I’ve had in the city.”
“This is the place I’m most likely to send friends from out of town upon request. It’s a truly unique experience. Never failed.”
Stush Patties, stushpatties.com
“There’s always a box of their jerk chicken patties in my freezer, and (owner) Opal (Rowe) herself is a true gem worth getting behind.”
Death in Venice Gelato, 1418 Dundas St. W.
“Or if I’m lazy, the DQ soft-serve at the end of my street will do.”
Freebird Market, 232 Norseman St.
“A slice of pizza or porchetta sandwich and sweet treat is my go-to.”
Swiss Chalet, various locations
“I don’t care who knows it.”
Favourite weekend brunch place
Musoshin Ramen, various locations
“I prefer to stay in my underwear doing the crossword on weekends and rarely venture out. But if I do, it’s in our neighbourhood, slurping down red ramen.”
Cheese Boutique, 45 Ripley Ave.
“I love a morning trip out to Cheese Boutique to see my good friend, (owner) Afrim (Pristine). It’s a nice morning catch-up, and their newly renovated bakery and coffee counter is gorgeous.”
“I really love sitting at the window counter and sipping a dry vermouth spritz with olives (thank you, Erin Hershberg).”
General Public, 201 Geary Ave.
“Full disclosure: I’ve been and I love it, but I’m most looking forward to taking (my wife, Dragonette frontwoman) Martina (Sorbara) and showing that off to her. It checks every one of her boxes.”
