3 days/nights in Toronto in early Nov, including a special birthday dinner. Suggestions please.
We're fairly adventuresome and want to sample things that are unique to Toronto. We definitely want to do one Portuguese because that cuisine is under represented in our home town, Philly. We haven't been to Toronto in years, but last time, I think we went to Chiado. Is that still the best Portuguese in town?
We want something really special, both food wise and a festive atmosphere if possible, for my husband's birthday.
We won't have a car. We're staying at the Soho Metropolitan. So, anything we can get to by public transportation or taxi is fine, but nothing in the 'burbs. Thanks.
-
There is a new Portuguese place called Quinta in what has become a very trendy food/bar area: Dundas and Ossington. I haven't been and given that it is very new, there may not be many reports. I'm sure many feel Chiado is the best Portuguese in the city, I haven't been convinced, but I don't really have an alternative to offer. Walking distance from your hotel are many inexpensive offerings like Banh Mi Boys, Bannock (try the poutine), Gabardine, Kinton Ramen, Khao San Road and Queen and Beaver pub. I haven't tried Kinton but I think consensus on this board is that all of these are better than average/safe bets. Some may suggest Dim Sum at Crown Princess or Lai Wah Heen, this is not really my area and I found Lai Wah Heen disappointing on my only visit, but I'll leave it up to others to debate where to go downtown for Chinese because apparently it's something we do well.
I'm a sucker for roof top bars and there are three somewhat close to you; Canoe, Panorama, and the Park Hyatt. All have a great view and all charge around $12-14 for a drink. The Park Hyatt is especially cool because of the old school leather club house feel, plus their bartender has been there for over 50 years.
As far as a special birthday dinner you may consider the tasting menu at George. This place gets a lot of love on this board, and for the most part it delivers.
The Frida Kahlo exhibit will be at the AGO during November. The AGO is a world class gallery and building and brunch at their restaurant, Frank, is very good but pricey.
Lastly, if you go to the Distillery or around King and Spadina, get chocolates at Soma.
