source: www.dine.to
Well Toronto, it’s that time of year again! If you thought you noticed a few more hipster-foodies in your neighbourhood lately, it’s not just your imagination. Yes, the annual Winterlicious festival began January 31st and it’s currently in full effect. The city-wide event poses an excellent opportunity for money-conscious individuals looking to try some new or exotic cuisine. And with over 200 of Toronto’s top restaurants on this year’s roster, there’s a plethora of savory, gourmet goodness available to please just about every palette. Um, is anyone else salivating yet?
WHAT IS IT?
Essentially, the annual Winterlicious event is a food smorgasbord that features cut rate prix-fixe menus at some of Toronto’s hottest and often pricey restaurants. Diners can enjoy three course prix-fixe meals for lunch from $15-$25 as well as dinner, which comes in anywhere between $25 and $45, depending on the restaurant. But before you reserve a table for date night (independently or online through Open Table), have a look at some of our top picks for this year’s event.
HOT SPOTS
The Drake Hotel: We recently visited the Drake Hotel and had a perfectly executed three course meal complete with ahi tuna, steak and mini donuts. That said, we have no doubt you’ll have a superb dining experience at this popular establishment. You’ll find The Drake Hotel on trendy Queen St. West and can opt to pay ‘The Underground’ (basement of The Drake hotel) a visit for some live after dinner entertainment.
img. source: www.toularestaurant.com
Canoe: If you’re from Toronto then you’ve probably heard of Canoe. The nationally acclaimed restaurant spotlights Canadian style cuisine and has rightfully earned its notoriety in the city. From Ontario strip loin to heirloom carrot cake, just reading Canoe’s Winterlicious menu makes us swoon. Moreover, since Canoe is regularly quite pricey, Winterlicious offers the perfect opportunity to give their fare a whirl. (But hurry up and reserve a table as this one books up quickly.)
Toula: We went to Toula during Winterlicious last year and it was nothing short of fabulous! Perched on the 38th floor of the Harbourfront Castle, Toula features 360 degree windows and a stunning view of downtown Toronto. We’re inclined to recommend Toula’s wild caught salmon paired with fruit compote. Drool.
Nota Bene: This charming, modish restaurant was once named Canada’s best new restaurant by Toronto Life and we conquer! Enjoy venison, foie gras and finish off with a tropical coconut sorbet at this chic spot.
MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
Mill St. Beer Hall: With over 500 tables, the Mill Street Beer Hall not only almost guarantees you’ll get a reservation; it’s also one of the more reasonably price restaurants on the Winterlicious roster this year.
Archeo: The yellow pine ceilings and exposed brick walls are what make this hip eatery one of our favourite places to dine in Toronto. Try their spicy chicken and bacon pizza, plus an appetizer and a dessert for just $25.00 this Winterlicious.
VEGETARIAN ALTERNATIVES
Tabule: Are you a Vegetarian? You don’t have to skip Winterlicious! There are plenty of vegetarian options on the Winterlicious roster this year. Head north on Yonge for some interesting Middle Eastern dishes at Tabule! From lentil soup to falafel to veggie kebabs, Tabule is one of our top picks for vegetarians in particular.
Trevor Kitchen and Bar: Surprisingly, Trevor Kitchen and Bar’s Winterlicious menu boasts not only vegetarian options, but vegan ones too. We recommend their tofu tempura followed by their vanilla cognac cupcake (to die for!)
Lolita’s Lust: Found in the heart of Greektown, Lolita’s sexy atmosphere is not only romantic (Valentine’s day, anyone?) it’s très chic. This year for Winterlicious, the popular restaurant is featuring a roasted beet & cucumber salad and a fully vegan garlic-tomato linguini for vegetarian diners.
If none of these options intrigue you, check out the full list of Winterlicious participants here. Just make sure to book your reservation for Toronto’s most anticipated culinary celebration ASAP.
Oh, and remember to share your foodie photos and highlights with us on Twitter @FreshPrintMag! Bon appétit!
