An absolutely stellar experience from start to finish. This restaurant exudes coziness and spaciousness, doing just one seating a day. The tables are quite far apart, giving a sense of privacy. This is a great spot for a special occasion.
The staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about the food they cook and the service that they provide. They enthusiastically explained each course, drink pairing, and even where to find the awesome cutlery that they were using.
Our meal started off outside in a semi-enclosed area with a warming broth made from local herbs and vegetables and pig's head. It was heated over a wood-fired grill. Many of the items served were kissed by the flames, resulting in wonderful smoky accents.
When we went inside, we were treated to course after course of delight. For me, the standouts were:
(1) Apples that underwent a preservation method similar to what's used for black garlic, resulting in this delicious buttery caramel flavour without the overly cloying sweetness;
(2) A duo of smoky, meaty maitake and pickled Ontario matsutake; and
(3) a delicious rabbit dish that had an excellent amount of fattiness tempered by a deliciously savoury sauce.
Everything was delicious though. More impressively, everything from the food to the wines and beers were all local or at least from Ontario. It was a true showcase of what great chefs can do with the great ingredients of our province.
Will definitely be back. read more
