“After a long winter, it’s exciting to see fresh produce arriving again,” says executive chef Jonathan Williams, who oversees both Joni Restaurant and the iconic Writers Room Bar at the Park Hyatt Toronto. His current stars? Ontario green and white asparagus appear throughout the menu, and, he says, “it’s a reminder that some of the best cooking happens when you let great seasonal ingredients speak for themselves.”
National pride runs strong in his kitchen: Williams’ goal is to showcase the best of Canada, sourcing as much as possible from local farmers, producers and suppliers, with a focus on Ontario ingredients and seasonal menus that evolve throughout the year. He recommends trying the ever-changing five-course tasting menu, which may feature anything from B.C. spot prawns and halibut to Ontario-raised rabbit and duck or perhaps some of the restaurant’s charcuterie, made in-house. His deep love of tasty Canadian goodness is paying off — he scored silver at the Canadian Culinary Championship earlier this year.
So where does he head when he wants to eat well? Find out which spots tickle Williams’ palate these days.
Best date-night spot
Bar Eugénie, 89 Harbord St.
“It’s become the go-to for my fiancée and me. The second you walk in, you’re hit with the smell of the garlicky bone marrow dish — it’s completely intoxicating. The atmosphere is warm and intimate, the food is incredible and the team always makes you feel welcome. It’s one of those places you find yourself returning to again and again.”
Hidden gem
The Rosebud, 498 King St. E.
“It has that perfect neighbourhood-restaurant feeling where you instantly feel at home. My favourite dishes are the charred asparagus and the BBQ pork coppa, and they even make their pasta fresh in-house. It’s intimate, welcoming and the kind of place I’m always recommending to friends.”
Repeat reservation
Peter Pan Bistro, 373 Queen St. W.
“I love it so much I’m actually getting married there this October. The food is incredible whether you’re there for dinner or brunch, but the one thing I always recommend is their take on the classic French sandwich, the croque madame. I still dream about it.”
Comfort food
Tondou Ramen, 596 College St.
“Their classic tonkotsu ramen is my cure for just about anything. It’s rich, satisfying and exactly what I want after a long day or when I’m craving something comforting.”
Lunch spot
Richmond Station, 1 Richmond St. W.
“They serve my favourite burger in the city, stuffed with short rib and made completely in-house, from the bun to the mayo to the beet relish. Add a side of their rosemary fries and I’m happy.”
Best cocktail bar
Bar Etc., 1036 Gerrard St. E.
“This is my favourite cocktail bar right now. It has a relaxed neighbourhood feel, but the drinks are incredibly thoughtful and precise. I always order their featured milk punch: it’s 10/10 every time. Their paloma is also outstanding. The food is equally impressive, drawing inspiration from island cuisine. The grilled coconut shrimp and pineapple smash burger are both must-orders.”
The last best thing you ate
Riley’s, 155 Wellington St. W.
“It’s right by my house, so I find myself stopping in for a drink or dessert more often than I should. Everything on the dessert menu is great, but the brûléed banana tart is on another level. It’s a thick custard tart with a graham crust, topped with bananas Foster and a crème fraîche caramel. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you immediately start planning your next visit.”
Favourite breakfast spot
Dad’s Breakfast & Coffee, 1473 Dundas St. W.
“Hands down, the best breakfast sandwich in the city. I always order the Katsu Dad, a panko-crusted steamed omelette on a pillowy soft bun with chili crisp. Pair it with one of their coffee slushies and you’ve got a pretty perfect breakfast.”
Place I’ve been dying to try
Ricky + Olivia, 996 Queen St. E.
“It’s at the top of my list right now. I’ve heard nothing but great things from friends in the industry, and everyone who’s been keeps telling me I need to get there as soon as possible. The food looks creative and thoughtful without taking itself too seriously, and the atmosphere seems like exactly the kind of place I love spending an evening.”
