If you’re looking for high-quality food, eclectic offerings, and a one-of-a-kind dining experience, look no further than Little Italy. But it’s still not what you expect: nestled between all of the eateries serving pizza, pasta dishes, gelato and more, a menu that celebrates Canada’s cultural diversity is bursting with flavour. At Ficoa, Chef Gerry Quintero and restaurateur Patricia Toro came together to create magic.
A look at Ficoa
“The idea behind this is to emphasize the food’s beauty and quality, and of course, to allow guests to connect with the person across from them. It’s a social experience as much as a culinary one,” says Chef Quintero.
The name ‘Ficoa’ serves as a tribute to Toro’s childhood. She grew up in the neighbourhood of Ficoa, Ecuador, in which the streets are lined with beautiful citrus trees. The vibrant citrus-themed mural in the dining room is a hand-painted mural by artist Nadine Ogle, depicting a larger-than-life street sign reading ‘Ficoa’ that celebrates Toro’s roots and mirrors the flavours that anchor the menu.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Chef Gerry Quintero, meanwhile, began his culinary journey in Mexico, where he cultivated a passion for vegetarian cuisine and a philosophy centred on honouring each ingredient, leaving nothing overlooked. His early experiences in the kitchen with family instilled in him the belief that every ingredient deserves reverence – a philosophy he maintains at Ficoa.
The restaurant boasts several different experiences to enjoy, keeping with its value of social connections. There’s a seven-course tasting menu made up of 16 plates that change weekly, a Neighbourhood Menu available from 5:00 PM onwards, which is a 4-course tasting menu featuring six plates for $90.00 per person and designed to highlight Ontario’s microseasons with weekly menu updates. There’s also an a la carte offering and a membership designed to offer unique tasting experiences, and the eatery also regularly hosts culinary events for those looking for a unique way to spend a day.
And, launching in August, Ficoa is offering Pachanga, a playful twist on the chef’s choice concept, tailored for happy hour. With each drink, guests enjoy a curated selection of snacks that vary based on their beverage order.
Ficoa is located at 585 College Street.
ADVERTISEMENT |
