With the flip from hot to cold – weather-wise, that is – we’re thinking less about fresh summer salads and more about twice-baked potatoes and steak. With us on this one? So, to subdue the need for stew to keep from becoming a cold shrew, check out these five fine restaurants that are oh-so-perfect for keeping warm… with food… or hard liquor… or free heating…
Kultura is a stalwart on King East. There’s nary a restaurant like it in the area, and the atmosphere is reflective of Toronto’s love of trendiness. But, Kultura is far from a pig with lipstick. While it’s resplendent with vibe and chic decor, Kultura also boasts a beauty of a menu. We adore the palak paneer na’an with truffle oil and peppered honey. And the mushroom orecchiette with pinot noir pear chutney… ooph! Divine. The spiced lamb rack? Killer. Want to find out more about this pumpin’ spot? Watch the vibe at Kultura. (Clickity click the linkity link.)
——— Check out some other great ‘Be Scene’ Restaurants here. ——-
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Ever met an Allen you didn’t like? They’re usually jovial fellows, happy to befit a crowd with jubilant jostling. Allen’s restaurant c’est la meme chose. This mainstay on the Danforth is all about the steak. Well… not all about the steak… but damn do they ever grill a fine one! Oh! And their beer-battered halibut is a fish n’ chips lover’s wet (or rather crispy I s’pose) dream. Don’t forget to order one of the hundred-plus bottles of wine at Allen’s, because what’s perfect red meat without a bottle of perfect vin rouge? Check out the vibe at Allen’s on the Danforth.
——— Check out some other awesome Toronto Bistros here. ——-
Ever think… in the dead cold of winter… that swingin’ ’round in a hammock above a volcano’s open mouth would be ever-so-apropos? Well, at 1800 Degrees, the temperature may be slightly (okay, full disclosure: a lot) lower than Dante’s Peak, but the steaks are seared at the same mercury point as the restaurant’s name. And the seafood here… well… I’m not going to warrant an NSFW upset by saying how it is… but it’s f _ _ king fantastic. 1800 Degrees is all about quality and white linen hospitality. It’s a destination spot to be sure… if you think Bloor West is a destination… Watch how amazing 1800 Degrees is in this trailer.
——— Take a look at some other nifty Steak Restaurants here. ———
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Remember that Simpsons episode… the one with Tappa Tappa Tappa? Let’s change that and get you thinkin’ Tappo Tappo Tappo… Tappo Wine Bar is a Distillery District gem. In a reclaimed building that keeps the original beauty of the interior, Tappo is home to delectable Italian fare and equally delectable Italian wine. Try the seafood risotto, or the wild mushroom ravioli. The arancini or the osso bucco. You can’t go wrong with a restaurant this right. (Man, that sounded cheesy, eh?) Anywho, check out the vibe at Tappo Wine Bar. Just remember… Tappo Tappo Tappo…
——— Take a look at some other swell spots for Wine Lovers here. ———
The Great One himself couldn’t find an establishment he’d love more. It’s not surprising… since it’s his. Wayne Gretzky’s is a warm-hearted sports bar/restaurant that’s got a wicked vibe for you lovers of pucks, balls, and the like, and some grub worthy of a pitcher of brew. Share the nachos, the poutine, the wings, whatever pub grub your heart desires and stare vacantly at the many TV screens the way sports lovers most always do. Click the link to watch what goes down at Wayne Gretzky’s, including a cameo by The Great One himself.
