A great taco. Some unreal Indian food. Maybe a Vietnamese feast. According to executive chef Michael Angeloni, the list of Toronto food options just keeps going. “And that ability to be exposed to such amazing food and flavours is what makes Toronto a great spot for dining.”
While many chefs may get stuck working with one cuisine, Angeloni flies between many worlds of flavour every week. He presides over a piano bar serving Mediterranean fare at the Berczy Tavern; a Michelin-recommended French restaurant offering luxe tasting menus at Restaurant Lucie; and Notte Ristorante, an Italian joint with a tucked-away pasta spot in the back, Pasta Privato.
Now, he’s making the most of the last stretch of summer with two wildly different culinary offerings. At Restaurant Lucie, he’s serving a limited-time Provence-inspired menu through Sept. 5, with diners choosing between a three-course prix fixe and a five-course tasting menu featuring regional touches such as a lavender-pear cocktail and citrus olive cake. And on Mondays, he’s honouring his past stint at the much-missed Grand Electric with a taco night featuring fillings such as wagyu carne asada and duck confit, alongside shrimp and yellowfin tuna aguachile and signature margaritas.
So where does Angeloni go when he wants a great meal? Read on.
Best date-night spot
Imanishi Japanese Kitchen, 1330 Dundas St. W.
“My wife and I have been going for years. We love the small plates, the great drinks. The vibe is fantastic, with amazing service. It’s just a cosy spot to sit and tuck in for a great night. Everything is so on point, but try the octopus, gomae, snapper and the prawn salad.”
Best bakery
Cherry Bomb, 79 Roncesvalles Ave.
“It’s not a bakery, but their croissants are my daughter’s favourite. They always have some different flavours, like smoked cheddar and havarti, all made there, flaky and delicious!”
Hidden gem
Sakai Bar, 1576 Dundas St. W.
“The food is always delicious, and they also have an amazing selection of sake.”
Repeat reservation
Donna’s, 827 Lansdowne Ave.
“Breakfast, lunch and dinner — it’s all the best! One of the most consistent restaurants around: no matter the time of day, it’s fantastic. I often get the Danish breakfast, and a Spanish tortilla if they have any left. The tomato jam on the Danish plate is so good. The tortilla is incredible with the sour cream and chili oil. Lunch there is especially nice, though, from small bites and nice salads to sandwiches. Also, you can sit out front on their patio.”
The last best thing you ate
Made Rite Coffee, 68 Wales Ave.
“Get the bacon, egg and cheese; the sandwich is elite! This coffee shop has a great vibe, and the staff are the best.”
Fancy dinner
La Banane, 227 Ossington Ave.
“I had dinner here recently and the food was brilliant and refined. The hospitality was also next-level; our server was so great at curating our experience.”
Comfort food
Cafe Polonez, 195 Roncesvalles Ave.
“I’ve been going since I was a small child. The portions are big: it’s all home-cooked and reminds me of my mother’s kitchen. I love it and my daughter does now, too.”
Best dessert
Restaurant Stop, 397 Roncesvalles Ave.
“The honey cake has layers of cake and cream: light, delicate and just perfect! Chef Denis is a rockstar!”
Best late-night craving spot
Seoulshakers, 1241 Bloor St. W.
“After work, I can swing by and have a hwe dip bap (raw fish, rice and vegetables), and a chop cheese with kimchi. Also, if you’ve got room, the pork is unreal.”
Best takeout
Cafe Pho Nho, 2060 Dundas St. W.
“I love this great little family-run Vietnamese spot, everything’s always fresh and delicious. I’m actually going for takeout tonight!”
Place I’m dying to try
Prime Seafood Palace, 944 Queen St. W.
“Chef Coulson is really talented and everything he posts looks amazing. I have heard lots of great things and I’m excited to experience it sometime.”
