Bites of Passion

1.Trevor Kitchen and Bar
As one of the city’s newest additions to the restaurant scene, Trevor Kitchen and Bar has quickly earned a place on the culinary hotspot list. Architecture and ambience come together in this 150-year old building, that showcases one of the most exuberant dining atmospheres. Don’t shy away from a personal favourite – the Grill Pressed Hen with bacon, chestnuts, honey mushrooms and herb spatzle.
www.trevorkitchenandbar.com

2. Vaticano Trattoria
Found in Toronto’s posh Yorkville, this underground celebrity hotspot is reminiscent of the Pope’s city state. Overflowing with Roman sculptures and décor, the dining room reflects the creative talent of chef Felice Vacca. Developing his skills as a young boy in Rome, Vacca features some of the most authentic central Italian delicacies, including homemade zuppe, contorni, and pastas. Haven’t been to Rome? This is the next best thing – just don’t expect a papal audience.
www.vaticano.ca

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3.Via Allegro Ristorante

With an outstanding selection of New and Old World wines, Via Allegro pairs the right bottle with any of its pristine Mediterranean menu items. Based on a cooking philosophy called the “The Three Sisters,” executive chefs incorporate an Italian approach, French presentation, and Californian flair. Sample a selection of exquisite appetizers, or enjoy wild game followed by a delectable dessert. The upscale venue is also large enough to host friends and family at your next private function.
www.viaallegroristorante.com

4. Sassafraz
The heart of Yorkville isn’t just an idea
it’s a historic yellow house. Definitely the place to be seen, Sassafraz is an exclusive fine dining restaurant located in the centre of Toronto’s posh dining and events district. The lavish dining room boasts shades of cream leather, divinely white linens, and refreshingly green, two-storey-high foliage. Whether you’re visiting for evening cocktails or a weekend brunch, this lush yellow jewel offers a chic outing experience.  www.sassafraz.com

5. Scaramouche Restaurant
For over 20 years, this upscale destination has retained a reputation for being Toronto’s top restaurant. You can’t go wrong with a forest-like view of the city and detailed, top-notch service. More impressive is this institution’s wine list, featuring a Billecart-Salmon NV Brut Rosé half bottle and an Argentinian Malbec. And if you’re not sure which to choose, a sommelier will suggest any number of wines to accompany an exquisite entrée, like the Napoleon of Smoked Fish.
www.scaramoucherestaurant.com

6. Eight Wine Bar
If the Greek god of wine hung out in Toronto, it would be here. Yes, even Dionysus would be impressed with Eight Wine Bar. The snazzy coloured hotspot offers some of the most visually and gastronomically impressive dishes, paired with the ideal wine. With the largest wine-by-the-glass program in the city, guests can choose a three, five or eight-ounce glass from a colossal selection.  And if you’re not a Greek god, just remember to leave the toga at home.
www.eightwinebar.com

7.Vagabondo Italian Restaurant and Lounge
For someone who’s searching from place to place, looking for the right restaurant, Vagabondo – which translates to wanderer – is the perfect spot. Set in the heart of Toronto, this unique venue offers a variety of options to all sorts of diners. Whether you’re looking to cater your next dinner party, host an upscale private function, enjoy live jazzy beats, or simply have an express business lunch, Vagabondo’s got it all, at just the right price.
www.vagabondo.ca

8.C5 Restaurant & Lounge
Climb a few stories to look into the Royal Ontario Museum’s fifth crystal, and you’ll find c5. The picturesque restaurant and lounge flaunts a dining room with a stunning art collection and panoramic view of Toronto. Masterpieces like the Rack of Wild Boar and Elk Striploin are sure to leave you delighted and tantalized. Unfortunately, dinosaur tenderloin is no longer in season, but a walk to the prehistoric exhibit will surely give you an idea of what you’re missing.
www.c5restaurant.ca