The leaves may be falling off the trees with the promise of a frosty winter reception ahead, but this November’s new Toronto restaurants roundup is anything but frigid. Long-awaited love from America presents itself in the form of everyone’s favourite action hero (or boy band star — you choose), only to be joined by clever Canadians branching out beyond their expense account roots at Little Fin.
While other places have the “Right Stuff,” we’re hoping “Step By Step” (couldn’t help it, #sorrynotsorry) we’ll see notables like Wilbur Mexicana finally open its doors. Wahlburgers will face more good ol’ American competition when their counterparts b.good and Bareburger open later this autumn. Also, the man with the golden touch, Grant van Gameren (alongside heavyweight pals Michael Webster and Robin Goodfellow), is behind the upcoming 505 College Street development. Though the bar’s name has yet to be announced, it’s sure to be the next hot spot in Little Italy. Can’t wait that long? Check out our favourite Toronto restaurant openings for November 2014 in the mean time…
Wahlburgers
Marky Mark’s notoriously chiselled abs certainly won’t be on the menu when the SoHo Met’s long-awaited anchor tenant, Wahlburgers, officially opens on November 15… and, sadly, neither is poutine. Already open in soft launch, Torontonians will have yet another option in the city’s dizzying array of burger bars — this one with two floors, loads of TVs, and more options than you can shake a NKOTB dance move at. The unique sports bar concept promises a mix of their American classics (ranging from deluxe cheeseburgers to novelty items like Mark’s fave “Thanksgiving Burger”) mashed up with Canadian-inspired offerings like the bespoke “Wahlbrewski” beer on tap — made specially by local favourite, Mill Street Brewery. Gourmet burgers are sure to be a hit, but let’s see how the crippling 18% service fee goes over. I’m guessing not so well.
Kinton Ramen- North York
For Kinton Ramen, setting up their fourth location in North York was a no brainer. The largely Asian population surrounding Yonge and Empress will no doubt make this a popular spot — especially this winter with anyone seeking warmth from both their infamously delicious noodle bowls and gregarious atmosphere. A definite improvement to North York’s current culinary offerings, Kinton Ramen has renovated the space formerly occupied by Jetson’s Juicy Burgers (which folded earlier this year).
Libretto on Uni
A gussied up, PATH-accessible Libretto is days away from opening their doors on University Avenue. With winter weather approaching, it couldn’t have come at a better time. Expect the same Napoli-style pizzas made with VPN-certified ingredients like their popular Nduja Sausage ‘za made with super spicy pork sausage. Centrally located, Libretto on Uni will no doubt be packed during mid-week lunches, with pizzas popping out in 90 seconds flat — 900-degree dual-hybrid ovens FTW!
Little Fin
This standing-room-only little sister to The Chase (and conveniently located directly under it) offers everything from the sea in grab-and-go options for busy business execs. Standout menu choices include their decadent lobster hot dogs, held in a highly-contrasting bamboo-charcoal buns. If your commute home isn’t complete without a pinchy pal, reel in a live lobster at Little Fin to keep you company on the trip. Bonus points if you ride the Rocket.
Louis Cifer Brew Works
This Satanic-themed brew pub has just opened on the Danforth with beer flights, special ales on rotation, and an on-site brewery in the works. Louis Cifer’s menu is your standard pub fare: burgers, fish n’ chips, and deep fried oddities like mac ‘n cheese poppers. Let’s hope the devil is in the details and Louis doesn’t suffer the same fate as previous tenants Davos, Legion, or 417.
Ovest Cucina e Vineria
Taking over an all-bricked building on King West near Tecumseth, Ovest Cucina e Vineria promises “traditional Italian cuisine with a French twist.” With a wood-fired pizza oven, homemade pasta, tempting charcuterie (salumeria), and a juicy wine list, this comfort food spot will surely be a safe bet when the temperature drops in Hogtown and hibernation takes hold.
Her Majesty’s Pleasure
If your Friday night anthem is Drake’s classic track, “Fancy’” (or maybe you’re more of an Iggy kinda gal), then this new bar/ boutique/ beauty spot will definitely start the weekend off right… Nails done, hair done, wine DONE. Her Majesty’s Pleasure kicks it up a notch with a full bar to cure whatever ails you. This place is destined to be a top choice for tipsy trendsetters, blotto bachelorettes, and plastered pretty girls gearing up for another night out on King West.
Mr. Flamingo
Courting the cool kids at Dundas West and Dovercourt, Mr. Flamingo is a nifty little spot with a well-curated selection featuring seasonal odd and sods (from ocean to farm and back again) and a carefully-executed bar menu to match. It’s hard to articulate the concept behind the unique name, or even the design elements of the restaurant, which still retains its predecessor’s exterior signage. But that’s definitely part of the draw — as is the killer rotating made-to-order burrata.
Nana
Dubbed the “rebellious younger sister” to Toronto’s fave Thai restaurant, Khao San Road, Nana recently opened their doors after years of speculation and curious looky-loo’s wondering what was going on behind the papered windows on 785 Queen West. Taking the space over from The Friendly Thai, Nana has a distinctly street style vibe with an interior that has been carefully replicated to resemble the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. Also, expect the same lively revelry to go along with your curries, rolls, and rices that “big sister” Khao San Road is known for.
What are you favourite Toronto restaurant openings this month? Think there’s another one we should include on the list? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.
