British-Indian fusion restaurant Punch has had a spicy fall so far, hosting a bunch of celebs during TIFF — including Javier Bardem, Penélope Cruz and Sting — and then earning a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide’s Recommended selection.
And chef Manek Singh says it couldn’t have come at a better time. “Indian food and culture are having a really exciting moment around the world right now. You’re seeing chefs and restaurants everywhere putting a spotlight on different parts of India,” he says. “There’s so much depth and diversity to Indian food, and honestly, I think we’re still just scratching the surface.”
Current Punch signatures include his chicken biryani, based on his dad’s original recipe, and a hamachi ceviche inspired by his time cooking in Italy and South Africa, along with a khichdi-inspired arancini.
“Khichdi is basically lentils and rice, and it’s one of those really simple comfort foods that almost every Indian household has its own version of. My time cooking Italian food and my love of khichdi came together in this dish, and we ended up turning it into an arancini,” he says. “It sounds a little strange when you explain it, but when you taste it, it just works.”
Here are some spots Singh visits when he wants something delicious that just works, every time.
Best date-night spot
Taverne Bernhardt’s, 202 Dovercourt Rd.
“I love that it’s cosy, the food is familiar but really flavourful, and it feels like the perfect neighbourhood spot for a relaxed date night.”
Hidden gem
Imanishi Sando Bar, 179 Brock Ave.
“The spicy chicken sando is the one to get — you really can’t go wrong.”
Repeat reservation
Viaggio, 1727 Dundas St. W.
“It’s some of the best Italian food in the city. It’s doing something completely different and tapping into flavours in a really unique, modern Italian way. The bone marrow mafaldine is my favourite, along with the bomba tartare.”
The last best thing you ate
Dad’s Breakfast & Coffee, 1473 Dundas St. W.
“Their Dad’s 48 is just a really good breakfast sandwich. Sometimes the simplest things are the most satisfying.”
Current obsession
Angara, various locations
“I could honestly eat Hakka food every day. Chilli chicken with fried rice is my go-to.”
Fancy dinner
Mimi Chinese, 265 Davenport Rd.
“I love that they showcase regional Chinese food and culture in a way that is accessible and loved by everyone, while still staying true to the food.”
Best dessert
“The best part about Bar Ape is that you’re always in for a surprise. You never quite know what they’ll have, and that’s what makes it exciting.”
Lunch spot
The Federal, 1438 Dundas St. W.
“It’s consistent and never disappoints. It’s the kind of place I know I can go to and have a really good meal.”
Best late-night craving spot
Daana Paani, various locations
“They have 24/7 service and amazing amritsari kulcha.”
Best takeout
Mother India Roti, various locations
“It’s the kind of food that travels well and is exactly what I want when I’m craving something comforting.”
Favourite weekend brunch place
Maha’s Egyptian Brunch, 226 Greenwood Ave.
“I get the sunny eggs and foole, with a side of dukka falafel and a Sub Zero macchiato. Trust me.”
Favourite coffee shop
Larry’s Place, 1390 Queen St. W.
“I get a good old flat white. In the summer, I’ll switch it up and get an iced latte.”
Best cocktail bar
The Virginia, 1374 Queen St. W.
“I usually go for a whiskey sour or a paper plane.”
Place I’m dying to try
Bar Eugenie, 89 Harbord St.
“I’m really looking forward to checking it out.”
