bistro or bust
My husband and I will be in Toronto for our first anniversary and are looking for a lovely little French bistro for a special dinner. I am a vegetarian (not vegan) and he is not, and I have already done lots of restaurant research and am feeling confused. We don't like pretentious, uptight fine dining--we're looking for a relaxed vibe, beautiful surroundings, delicious, honest food. Here are the top contenders based on what I've read: Jules, La Palette, Pastis Express, Avant Gout. I'm grateful for any insight!
Carla Stanke
Aug 19, 2004 10:50PM
if it's the Jules on Spadina/Queen, i would venture that it might be a little too casual for such an occasion... bistro tournesol was nice, tho it's been a while since i was there (on dupont/spadina) ..haven't been to the others on your list but have heard much about la palette (which I walk by everyday and is indeed charming)
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Just to clarify on why Jules is considered too casual by many here, it's really a lunch sandwich/crepe-type place, I think they may even close before dinner some nights?
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I think Jules closes around 9PM-ish on weekdays as I recall. It is very casual - minimal decor with the concentration on the food.
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I like Le Matignon on St. Nicholas St. which is in the Yonge/Bloor area of the city. I know that they have seafood dishes but I'm not sure if that would suit your dietary needs.
Mustafa is a very charming host. He treats every customer like a long lost friend. The service is lovely and the food is delicious.
I think that this is a well kept secret because it is off the beaten track in located in an area that is not known for its cuisine.
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For an anniversary I'd choose Pastis Express. It's light, airy and the food is good. But it is noisier than the others (because it's usually packed).
All of the others mentioned have good food, but tend to be stronger on the heavier, meatier dishes, and are all more casual. As already mentioned, Jules is more casual. La Palette is VERY casual - reminds me of the places I went as a graduate student - and they now feature beer rather than their prior excellent wine list. Avant Gout and Matignon are both Moroccan influenced (rather than French). Matignon is very dark - if smoking were allowed in T.O. it would be heavy with smoke. Avant Gout is tiny (seats around 16 on each of two floors) and the seating is in booths. I'd describe it as quirky (vintage board/trivia games scattered around) rather than Bistro.
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...or just go and try Bodega on Baldwin
Great little place, food and service both, awesome patio. www.bodegarestaurant.com
Best,
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Do you eat fish? Because Le Paradis on Bedford St, is a great bistro at very reasonable prices, although it doesn't have much in the way of totally veggie options. You almost feel you are in Europe.
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