| GRANO
REVIEW One of the earlier instalments on the trendy tract between Davisville and Eglinton Avenues, this Italian eatery has been around for 11 years, catering to neighborhood regulars as well as the glitterati. Most popular is the antipasto bar where patrons build their own combinations from a huge selection, which includes squid, octopus, grilled chicken, mushroom caps stuffed with gargonzola cheese and pesto, and a marinated vegetable dish with veal. Adding to an already lively atmosphere, in a rustic eclectic Italian country setting, is a storefront gift shop, offering up bread baked fresh on the premises, hence the name (grano means grain in Italian), books, videos and other Italian specialty items. The huge Italian wine list offers many choices by the glass. Source: toronto.com
REVIEW
While Toronto has no shortage of Italian eateries, few spots have as much ambience as Grano. The old-fashioned trattoria contains several dining areas, with wooden furnishings, distressed stucco, and piles of greenery. The small courtyard at the back is heaven on sunny days. This is a high-energy spot that attracts celebratory groups (one clever friend of mine had her wedding-rehearsal dinner here); it's also welcoming to families accompanied by bambini. The cooking is hearty, from tender osso buco to ricotta gnocchi paired with shrimp in white-wine sauce. The desserts are a serious draw -- you must try the white chocolate and raspberry tart at least once.
Source: frommers.com |