Nestled amongst the jumpin' College Street restaurant drag, Bar Italia, at seven years old, has almost achieved granddaddy status on this tree-lined and festive strip that welcomes families and loungers. Italian cuisine is '90s style with entrees changing all the time. Count on the sandwiches. The second floor rocks with live jazz, R&B, and the house band Jelly Stone.

Source: toronto.com

REVIEW

In the fast-paced world of Little Italy bars and cafes, the fact that this hipster hangout has been around for over seven years makes it an old-timer. Located on College just off Clinton, the bar features 1990s-style Italian cuisine and a second-floor lounge jumping with live music.

Special nights include jazz Wednesdays, live R&B Thursdays, and DJ Vania Fridays. Also on Friday and Saturday, drop in for the hopping house band, Jelly Stone. In the summer, the outdoor patio looks out onto the street scene.

Source: travel.yahoo.com

REVIEW

College Street's favourite neighbourhood spot does updated Italian food with simplicity. The long room, closely set tables and open kitchen make diners feel like lucky co-conspirators here. If the noise level reaches a bit of a din, or the dark-wood banquettes feel less than cushy, buttery walls and glowing hatbox-shaped fixtures cast it all in the dim light of a great bistro - as does friendly, unobtrusive service.

Torontonians and in-the-know late-nighters have all done time here, sampling simple, fresh and elegant favourites, perfectly prepared. Commendable restraint characterizes an ethereally fluffy little Gruyere omelet (sweetly presented with one orange cherry tomato for punctuation). A spicy tomatillo sauce complements a row of flawlessly grilled prawns. A meal of small plates is near divine. Entrees, like impeccable seared scallops with creamy squash and spinach risotto, or roasted free-range chicken that would make Julia Child proud, are highly recommended.

Soure: martiniboys.com