#FOOD: MOTHER’S DAY DINING ROUND-UP – MINAMI, LYLA, HARBOUR SIXTY, FICOA, BAKERY POMPETTE

With Mother’s Day fast approaching, Toronto’s dining scene is offering a range of thoughtful ways to celebrate the occasion, from elegant prix-fixe brunches to curated takeout experiences and indulgent bakery features. Whether you’re planning a sit-down experience or a cozy celebration at home, these offerings highlight the city’s diverse culinary landscape and provide something special for every kind of mom.

For those looking to celebrate at home, Minami Toronto presents a beautifully curated takeout experience featuring delicate temari sushi. Meanwhile, Lyla, Harbour Sixty, and Ficoa offer refined prix-fixe brunch menus that elevate classic Mother’s Day dining with thoughtful, multi-course experiences. And for something sweet, Bakery Pompette is serving up limited-time pastries perfect for gifting or indulging. For more information about Minami, visit HERE.

Minami Toronto
IG: @minamitoronto
📍225 King St W

This Mother’s Day, Minami Toronto is offering a vibrant and artful Mother’s Day Temari Sushi Box, available for takeout only on May 9 and 10 from 12 PM to 9 PM. Designed as a celebration of colour, flavour, and craftsmanship, each box features delicate, bite-sized temari sushi, each one a miniature work of art created with fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients by Sous Chef Trong Dang.

Priced at $35, the offering includes:
Oshi Bites (1 pc each):
Salmon oshi bite
Spicy tuna oshi bite
Temari Sushi (1 pc each):
Temari salmon sushi
Temari hamachi sushi
Temari hotate sushi
Temari ebi sushi
Temari yellowfin tuna sushi
Temari soy shiitake sushi
Sashimi (assorted, 4 pcs):
2 pcs madai
2 pcs bluefin tuna
This thoughtfully curated takeout experience offers a refined and convenient way to celebrate Mother’s Day at home, combining Minami’s signature precision with a playful and visually striking presentation.

Lyla
IG: @lylatoronto
📍60 Sudbury St

Lyla invites guests to celebrate Mother’s Day Brunch with a prix-fixe brunch experience on Sunday, May 10. Priced at $75 per person, the offering presents a thoughtfully curated menu designed to highlight seasonal flavours in a relaxed yet elevated setting.

Located in Toronto’s vibrant Queen West neighbourhood, Lyla is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that blends refined dining with a lively, social atmosphere. Drawing inspiration from coastal regions across Italy, Greece, and France, the restaurant offers a chef-driven menu centred around fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and premium ingredients, all executed with modern technique and a subtle contemporary edge.

The space itself balances elegance and energy, offering a polished, design-forward environment that transitions seamlessly from relaxed daytime dining to a more vibrant evening setting. With its emphasis on shareable plates, seasonal ingredients, and an inviting ambiance, Lyla provides an ideal backdrop for gathering and celebrating.

With reservations available via OpenTable, Lyla delivers a polished yet approachable dining experience, perfect for those looking to celebrate Mother’s Day over a leisurely, elevated brunch. Reservations can be made HERE.

Bakery Pompette
IG: @bakerypompette
📍655 College St

Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a selection of limited-time pastries from Bakery Pompette, available May 9–10.

Highlights include a raspberry pain suisse and a berry Basque cheesecake, with the possibility of a strawberry croissant feature depending on seasonal availability. These refined, fruit-forward pastries offer a simple yet indulgent way to mark the occasion, ideal for gifting or adding a sweet touch to any Mother’s Day celebration. For more information about Bakery Pompette, visit HERE.

Ficoa
IG: ficoa.to
📍585 College St

Ficoa presents a vibrant and immersive Mother’s Day Prix-Fixe Menu, offering a 5-course brunch experience that honours mothers and maternal figures through bold, expressive flavours.
Available May 9 (10 AM–2 PM) and May 10 (10 AM–4 PM), the experience is priced at $70 per guest and is designed as a full-table participation menu.

The menu includes standout dishes such as a Snack Box with short rib empanada and coxinha, seasonal ceviche with strawberry leche de tigre, grilled shrimp with xo salsa macha, and a braised short rib main (Pampero) topped with a fried egg. The experience concludes with a pumpkin Basque cheesecake with açaí-blueberry compote and guava.

This thoughtfully structured progression of dishes offers a dynamic and celebratory way to experience Ficoa’s culinary identity while marking the occasion in style. Reservations can be made HERE.

Ficoa Mother’s Day Prix-Fixe Menu:

Primero – Snack Box
short rib empanada, maduro de queso, coxinha
Segundo – Seasonal Ceviche
Seabass, strawberry leche de tigre, cancha, sweet potato puree
Tercero – Camarón
grilled shrimp, xo salsa macha, chives
Cuarto – Pampero
braised short rib, heirloom potatoes, chimichurri, a fried egg.
Quinto – Quibebe
pumpkin basque cheesecake, acai+blueberry compote, guava ate

Harbour Sixty
IG. @harboursixty
📍60 Harbour St

Harbour Sixty’s Mother’s Day Brunch offers an elevated take on favourite brunch classics. Available on Sunday May 10, their exclusive three‑course prix fixe brings a refined touch to the occasion. Priced at $85, the menu features elegant entrées including Quiche Lorraine and Classic Eggs Benedict, followed by indulgent desserts such as their bergamot and blood orange olive oil cake.
Guests can further enhance the experience with premium add‑ons, including shrimp cocktail and Valley Pearl oysters, paired with mimosas and bellinis that add a celebratory sparkle. A thoughtful, sophisticated way to honour Mother’s Day and create a memorable celebration for the whole family. Reservations can be made HERE.

Full Mother’s Day brunch menu available HERE.

#FOOD: FICOA AND POMPETTE GROUP COLLABORATION MAY 27, 2026

Neo-Latin fine dining destination Ficoa will host a one-night-only chef collaboration with the renowned Pompette Group on Wednesday, May 27, bringing together two of Toronto’s most dynamic culinary forces for an intimate, six-course tasting experience rooted in cultural exchange, storytelling, and technique. The Pompette Group, whose Bar Pompette was recently named No. 8 on North America’s 50 Best Bars 2026 list and No. 2 on Canada’s 100 Best Bars, joins Ficoa to kick off the restaurant’s new chef collaboration series, showcasing the group’s broader identity and savoir-faire across its portfolio, which includes Bar Pompette, Bakery Pompette, and the newly launched Bar Allegro.

Set in Toronto’s Little Italy, Ficoa has quickly established itself as a rising voice in the city’s dining scene, known for its refined yet soulful interpretation of Latin cuisine and its evolving, ingredient-driven approach that balances tradition with contemporary technique. Priced at $145 per person for the tasting menu (exclusive of tax and gratuity), with optional beverage pairings available, the evening will unfold across two seatings at 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM.
Reservations available via OpenTable HERE.

About the Collaboration
The evening will mark the first in a new series of chef collaborations at Ficoa, an initiative designed to explore the diversity and evolution of Latin cuisine through dialogue with global culinary perspectives.
Each collaboration invites a guest chef or group to engage with Ficoa’s approach, creating one-night-only menus that reflect how Latin American cuisine continues to evolve through technique, migration, and cultural exchange.

The debut collaboration with Pompette Group is conceived as a journey through the Americas, expressed through the lens of French technique. The six-course menu traces a path across regions including Mexico, Peru, and Argentina, highlighting a dialogue between ancestral ingredients and European culinary influence.

Structured as an alternating exchange between chefs, each course builds on the last, revealing both contrast and cohesion in a shared culinary language.

Menu Overview
The six-course tasting menu is designed as a collaborative exchange between Ficoa and Pompette Group, with alternating courses from each kitchen:
L’Amuse de la Milpa — Blue corn pâte brisée, epazote-infused chèvre, morita piloncillo gastrique
Ceviche de Altura — Seabass, cucumber, purple potato vichyssoise, chulpi corn, pickled sweet potato purée
Asado de Veau — Veal striploin, gaucho-style sweetbreads, malbec reduction, chimi-grenobloise, celeriac purée
Short Rib Bourguignon — Caramelised onion empanada, mole jus

Halibut — Guajillo lobster bisque, plantain mousseline, roasted fennel, cilantro oil, crispy salsa macha

Dark Chocolate Ganache — Burnt pineapple, grilled corn crème anglaise, masa tuile, mezcal caramel
Together, the menu reflects a seamless interplay between French technique and Latin American ingredients, moving from land to sea to dessert in a progression that is both cohesive and exploratory.

Event Details
Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Location: Ficoa, 585 College St, Toronto
Seatings: 5:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Format: Six-course tasting menu
Pricing:
$145 per person (tasting menu)
Optional beverage pairing: $50–$55
Tickets will be available via OpenTable.

Beverage Program
The beverage program will be led by the Bar Pompette, bringing its award-winning approach to cocktails and wine into the experience. Pairings will include a mix of wine and cocktails, with one pairing per course, alongside a non-alcoholic option.

Guests will be welcomed with a cocktail featuring Valley of Mother of God Gin, included in the ticket price.

About Chef Esau Garcia
Born in Camargo, Chihuahua, Chef Esau Garcia brings over 13 years of international culinary experience spanning Mexico, Australia, and Canada. His work is defined by a balance of precision and emotional depth, rooted in traditional Mexican cooking while shaped by global technique.

Prior to joining Ficoa, Garcia held key roles in several of Toronto’s most recognized kitchens, including Madrina Bar y Tapas, Rosalinda, and Lena. At Ficoa, his approach reflects a commitment to honouring tradition while reinterpreting it through a contemporary lens.

About Chef Martine Bauer
Chef Martine Bauer is Co-Founder of the Pompette Group, the team behind award-winning Bar Pompette, Bakery Pompette, and Bar Allegro. Born in Mauritius and trained in Paris, Bauer’s culinary perspective is shaped by European technique and global experience.

Her work is grounded in precision, seasonality, and storytelling, bringing together influences of migration and place through refined, thoughtful execution.

About Ficoa
Ficoa is a neo-Latin fine dining restaurant in Toronto’s Little Italy, founded by restaurateur Patricia Toro. Known for its evolving, ingredient-driven approach, Ficoa explores Latin American cuisine through a contemporary lens, balancing tradition with innovation in both its tasting and à la carte offerings.

About the Pompette Group
The Pompette Group is a Toronto-based hospitality group behind Bar Pompette, Bakery Pompette, and Bar Allegro. Recognized internationally for its bar program and culinary perspective, the group brings together European tradition and modern hospitality.

#FOOD: MOTHER’S DAY 2026 ROUND-UP: MINAMI, BAKERY POMPETTE, LYLA AND FICOA

With Mother’s Day fast approaching, Toronto’s dining scene is offering a range of thoughtful ways to celebrate the occasion, from elegant prix-fixe brunches to curated takeout experiences and indulgent bakery features. Whether you’re planning a sit-down experience or a cozy celebration at home, these offerings highlight the city’s diverse culinary landscape and provide something special for every kind of mom.

For those looking to celebrate at home, Minami Toronto presents a beautifully curated takeout experience featuring delicate temari sushi. Meanwhile, Lyla and Ficoa offer refined prix-fixe brunch menus that elevate classic Mother’s Day dining with thoughtful, multi-course experiences. And for something sweet, Bakery Pompette is serving up limited-time pastries perfect for gifting or indulging.

Minami Toronto

IG: @minamitoronto

📍225 King St W

This Mother’s Day, Minami Toronto is offering a vibrant and artful Mother’s Day Temari Sushi Box, available for takeout only on May 9 and 10 from 12 PM to 9 PM. Designed as a celebration of colour, flavour, and craftsmanship, each box features delicate, bite-sized temari sushi, each one a miniature work of art created with fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients by Sous Chef Trong Dang.

Priced at $35, the offering includes:

Oshi Bites (1 pc each):

Salmon oshi bite

Spicy tuna oshi bite

Temari Sushi (1 pc each):

Temari salmon sushi

Temari hamachi sushi

Temari hotate sushi

Temari ebi sushi

Temari yellowfin tuna sushi

Temari soy shiitake sushi

Sashimi (assorted, 4 pcs):

2 pcs madai

2 pcs bluefin tuna

This thoughtfully curated takeout experience offers a refined and convenient way to celebrate Mother’s Day at home, combining Minami’s signature precision with a playful and visually striking presentation. You wanna like them behind me?You can good girl

Lyla

IG: @lylatoronto

📍60 Sudbury St

Lyla invites guests to celebrate Mother’s Day Brunch with a prix-fixe brunch experience on Sunday, May 10. Priced at $75 per person, the offering presents a thoughtfully curated menu designed to highlight seasonal flavours in a relaxed yet elevated setting.

Located in Toronto’s vibrant Queen West neighbourhood, Lyla is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that blends refined dining with a lively, social atmosphere. Drawing inspiration from coastal regions across Italy, Greece, and France, the restaurant offers a chef-driven menu centred around fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and premium ingredients, all executed with modern technique and a subtle contemporary edge.

The space itself balances elegance and energy, offering a polished, design-forward environment that transitions seamlessly from relaxed daytime dining to a more vibrant evening setting. With its emphasis on shareable plates, seasonal ingredients, and an inviting ambiance, Lyla provides an ideal backdrop for gathering and celebrating.

With reservations available via OpenTable, Lyla delivers a polished yet approachable dining experience, perfect for those looking to celebrate Mother’s Day over a leisurely, elevated brunch.

Bakery Pompette

IG: @bakerypompette

📍655 College St

Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a selection of limited-time pastries from Bakery Pompette, available May 9–10.

Highlights include a raspberry pain suisse and a berry Basque cheesecake, with the possibility of a strawberry croissant feature depending on seasonal availability. These refined, fruit-forward pastries offer a simple yet indulgent way to mark the occasion, ideal for gifting or adding a sweet touch to any Mother’s Day celebration.

Ficoa

IG: ficoa.to

📍585 College St

Ficoa presents a vibrant and immersive Mother’s Day Prix-Fixe Menu, offering a 5-course brunch experience that honours mothers and maternal figures through bold, expressive flavours.

Available May 9 (10 AM–2 PM) and May 10 (10 AM–4 PM), the experience is priced at $70 per guest and is designed as a full-table participation menu.

The menu includes standout dishes such as a Snack Box with short rib empanada and coxinha, seasonal ceviche with strawberry leche de tigre, grilled shrimp with xo salsa macha, and a braised short rib main (Pampero) topped with a fried egg. The experience concludes with a pumpkin Basque cheesecake with açaí-blueberry compote and guava.

This thoughtfully structured progression of dishes offers a dynamic and celebratory way to experience Ficoa’s culinary identity while marking the occasion in style. Reservations can be made HERE.

Ficoa Mother’s Day Prix-Fixe Menu:

Primero – Snack Box

short rib empanada, maduro de queso, coxinha

Segundo – Seasonal Ceviche

Seabass, strawberry leche de tigre, cancha, sweet potato puree

Tercero – Camarón

grilled shrimp, xo salsa macha, chives

Cuarto – Pampero

braised short rib, heirloom potatoes, chimichurri, a fried egg.

Quinto – Quibebe

pumpkin basque cheesecake, acai+blueberry compote, guava ate

#FOOD: VALENTINE’S DAY 2026 MENUS – MINAMI, ANTLER, LYLA, RADICI PROJECT, MIKU, FICOA, ABURI TORA, NO VACANCY, FAVORITES THAI

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate with some of Toronto’s most compelling dining destinations—including award-winning and MICHELIN-recognized restaurants—each offering thoughtfully crafted menus and elevated experiences designed for the occasion. From refined tasting menus and seasonal pairings to intimate, ingredient-driven dinners, Minami Toronto, Miku Toronto, Radici, No Vacancy, Lyla, Antler, Aburi Tora, and Favorites Thai invite guests to mark the holiday through exceptional food, thoughtful beverage programs, and warm hospitality. Whether planning an intimate dinner for two or a special evening out, each restaurant offers a distinct approach to celebrating Valentine’s Day in Toronto.

Minami
IG. @minamitoronto
📍225 King St. W

Minami Toronto invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Toronto with an elegant five-course tasting menu created by Head Chef Nao Akutagawa and MICHELIN-starred Executive Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi. Available from February 13 to 15 at Minami Restaurant starting at 4:00 pm, the experience is priced at $110 per person plus tax and gratuity and is designed for a relaxed and romantic evening. The menu highlights contemporary Japanese cuisine, including a surf and turf main featuring Japanese Wagyu and Alaskan scallops. Guests can enhance the experience with an optional four-course wine pairing or a featured Valentine’s cocktail, crafted to complement each course. Guests can book this romantic evening HERE.

Whether planning an intimate date night or a special celebration, Minami offers a sophisticated setting where contemporary Japanese cuisine, artful presentation, and warm hospitality come together. Minami’s Valentine’s Day experience is a memorable way to mark the occasion and share an evening centered around exceptional food and connection.

Valentine’s Day menu | $110
Wine Pairing I $40

Featured Cocktail I $16
Rose Kiss
St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Rosewood Rosé
Strawberry Syrup, Mint, Soda Water

Toro & Ikura Monaka
Caviar, Kimizu
Santa Margherita Prosecco, ITA

Aburi Sashimi
Hamachi, Maguro, Hokkaido Scallop
AIX Provence Rosé, FRA

Sushi Selection
Aburi Madai Nigiri, Aburi Chutoro Nigiri, Snow Crab Nigiri,
Botan Ebi with Salmon Oshi Bite, Wagyu Uni Don
Stratus Chardonnay, CAN

Surf & Turf
Japanese Wagyu X, Alaskan Scallop,
Peppercorn Jus, Cauliflower Puree
Marc Jambon Beaujolais Villages, FRA

Hojicha Tiramisu
Ladyfinger Sponge, Hojicha Ganache

Miku
IG. @mikutoronto
📍10 Bay St.

Miku Toronto will celebrate Valentine’s Day with two special experiences, inviting guests to spend the day and evening indulging in contemporary Japanese cooking and floral artistry.

Earlier in the day, Miku Toronto will host a Valentine’s Day Ikebana Luncheon featuring acclaimed Ikebana artist Aya Sugino, priced at $150 per person plus tax and gratuity, with the Valentine’s featured cocktail, Love is in the Air, also available.

In the evening, the restaurant will present a seven-course Valentine’s Day tasting menu by Chef de Cuisine Michael Acero and MICHELIN-starred Executive Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi at $180 per person plus tax and gratuity, accompanied by live music and an optional wine and sake pairing available for an additional $55. The Valentine’s featured cocktail, Love is in the Air, will also be available for $17.

Together, the experiences offer couples the option to celebrate with a creative daytime luncheon, a romantic evening tasting menu, or both. Guests can reserve a spot for the Valentine’s Day Ikebana Luncheon HERE, and reserve a spot for the Valentine’s Day tasting menu HERE.

Valentine’s Day 7-course Menu I $180
Wine Pairing I $55
Featured Cocktail I $17
Scarlet Silk
Hornitos tequila, Soho lychee liqueur, peach schnapps,
cranberry, yuzu, edible pink glitter

The Uni Cocktail
Uni, Botan Ebi, Hamachi, Chutoro, Cauliflower, Romanesco,
Swiss Chard, Cucumber, Arare, Sorrel, Truffle Ponzo Dashi
Jansz Premium Cuvee

Hassun
Mozuku Crab Kaiso Salad with Ikura
Scallop with Kabocha Velouté
Lobster Tart with Edamame & Pea Purée
Steelhead Smoked Salmon with Caviar
Herring Roe with Miso Crumble & White Strawberry
Octopus Glazed in Soy & Citrus
Masumi Suzumisake Junmai Ginjo

Sashimi Duo
shared plate
Oysters with Pear Mignonette, Akami Rose, Hotate,
Kobujime Hirame, Kanpachi
Château Maligny Chablis

Umi Tomato Dashi
Mussels, Clams, Cod, Squid
Tanaka x Chartier Blend 001

Sushi Duo
shared plate
Torotaku Heart Maki with Amaebi & Ankimo
Tachiuo & Foie Gras Bites
Atlantic Salmon Temari with Yukari Rice
Wagyu Nigiri with Truffle Powder & Black Truffle
Costaripa Rosa Mara Valtenesi

Brome Lake Duck Duo
Togarashi Spiced Duck Breast & Duck Confit Croquette, Duck Jus,
Roasted Grapes, Pickled Mushroom, Sweet Potato, Pea Shoots
Château Teyssier, Montagne St Emilion

Oishii Strawberry Shortcake
Oishii Koyo berries, Salted Valrhona Dulcey Glacé, Pistachio Cookie Crumble

The Valentine’s Day tasting menu unfolds over seven courses, beginning with seafood-driven dishes and concluding with an Oishii Strawberry shortcake layered with Valrhona Dulcey glacé and pistachio crumble by Executive Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi.

The Valentine’s Day Ikebana Luncheon includes a guided one-hour Ikebana session with Aya Sugino, with all materials provided, including vase, flowers, and floral décor, followed by an Ikebana-inspired sushi set curated by Chef de Cuisine Michael Acero.

Radici Project
IG. @radici_project
📍588 College St.

Radici Project will celebrate Valentine’s Day with a seasonal multi-course tasting menu designed to highlight the creativity of the kitchen and the best of the season’s bounty. Priced at $200 per guest plus tax and gratuity, the Valentine’s Day experience invites guests to celebrate love through a thoughtfully composed dining journey. Guests can enhance the experience with an optional seasonal wine and sake pairing for $70, or a non alcoholic pairing featuring house-made juices and crafted zero-proof cocktails for $50. Guests can reserve a spot HERE.

Valentine’s Day Tasting Menu

Rose
Cranberry Lemon

Aperitivo
Cacio e pepe takoyaki
Oyster- Quince, Horseradish oil
Scallop- Prosciutto broth, Soba, Beets
Nori waffle- Smoked tofu, Black truffle

Crab
Sunchoke, Caviar, Smoked hay

Karaage
Sorrel, Latticello

Somen
Parmigiano, Sea urchin, Caviar

Spoja Lorda al Cuore
Heart-shaped stuffed pasta, baccalà mantecato, black trumpet mushroom dashi

Canadian Wagyu
burnt celeriac, Saskatoon berry, pomme soufflé, water spinach

Dessert

Heart roses kogashi

Strawberry shortcake
Rose cream

Petite Fours

Set in Radici’s intimate dining room, the evening will unfold with soft music in the background and artistic Ikebana floral arrangements throughout the space, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere that mirrors the beauty and creativity of the dishes being served.

No Vacancy
IG. @novacancyto
📍74 Ossington Ave

From February 13-15, No Vacancy invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s —or Galentine’s— with a limited lineup of exclusive, themed cocktails crafted for the occasion. Set within its signature candlelit atmosphere, the bar will offer an intimate backdrop for evening gatherings, date nights, and celebratory toasts alike.

A destination for couples, friends, and groups celebrating any occasion, the experience highlights the venue’s late-night atmosphere while introducing limited-time Valentine’s cocktail features available throughout the weekend. Reservations are recommended and can be made HERE.

Lyla
IG. @lylatoronto
📍60 Sudbury St

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Lyla with a four-chapter Prix Fixe Dinner designed for sharing. On February 13-15, guests are invited to settle in at Lyla for a $119 per person, family-style menu that moves from a Petit Plateau of oysters, hamachi and scallop ceviche to crowd-pleasing mains like linguine all’aragosta and Canadian prime striploin, finishing with Fraisier, a bright, strawberry-forward dessert with passionfruit, vanilla sponge, and a silky ganache. For those looking to elevate the evening, guests can add a $69 beverage pairing or a $49 caviar tin alongside the first course.

Guests can reserve this showstopping dinner via OpenTable HERE.

Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Dinner
$119 per person | Served Family Style
Chapter 1
Petit Plateau
East Coast Oysters
ponzu pearls, chervil, shallots
Hamachi
topped plum wine jelly, ponzu, pomegranate seeds
Scallop Ceviche
potato, cilantro, lime juice
Chapter 2
Cauliflower
hummus, pomegranate, honey, confit garlic sauce, mint
Burrata
marinated roasted red peppers, fried capers, sourdough, salsa verde
Chapter 3
Linguine All’Aragosta
atlantic lobster, vsop lobster bisque
Striploin
10 oz Canadian Prime Striploin, gruyère pomme purée, au poivre jus, sauteed spinach
Chapter 4
Fraisier
strawberry & passionfruit gel, sour cream panna cotta, vanilla sponge cake, chocolate soil, white chocolate ganache, strawberry sauce
Add-ons available:
Optional Valentine’s Day Beverage Pairing: $69.00
Optional Add on Caviar Tin to your Petit Plateau: $49.00

Antler
IG. @antlerkitchenbar
📍1454 Dundas St. W

Antler invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Toronto with a thoughtfully composed five-course tasting menu available Saturday, February 14, 2026. Offered exclusively for one night, the experience is priced at $129 per person plus tax and gratuity, with an optional $65 wine pairing designed to complement each course. Available from 3:00 pm to 9:45 pm, the menu reflects Antler’s distinctly Canadian approach, highlighting carefully sourced ingredients and refined technique.

Valentine’s Day Dinner
$129 per person + tax and gratuity
Optional Wine Pairing: $65 + tax and gratuity
Maritime Oysters
Heart and Soul
roasted bone marrow & heart tartare
Sturgeon Roulade
fennel, tomato & caviar
Bison Tenderloin
uni butter & dauphinoise potato
Chocolate Torte
whiskey barrel ice cream

Whether planning an intimate Valentine’s dinner or a special celebration, Antler offers a warm, refined setting to mark the occasion through seasonally driven dishes and thoughtful hospitality. Reservations are now available HERE.

Ficoa
IG. @ficoa.to
📍585 College St

Ficoa invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s weekend in Toronto with a special dining experience available Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14. Throughout the weekend, Ficoa will exclusively offer its signature tasting menu ($120 per person) alongside a dedicated Valentine’s Day menu priced at $95 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity. An optional cocktail pairing is available for $75 to complement the menu. Seating times are offered at 5:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 9:00 PM, creating multiple opportunities to enjoy the experience. Reservations are available at the link HERE.

Valentine’s Day Menu
$95 per person + tax and gratuity
Optional Cocktail Pairing: $75 + tax and gratuity
Bienvenida
PEI oyster in xoconostle aguachile, served with Prosecco
Primero
Ceviche Caribeño – Scallop, aji amarillo leche de tigre, coconut-agave gel, prosecco, crispy ginger, taro
Segundo
Gaonera de Wagyu – Tortilla maiz, guacamole, salsa de molcajete
Tercero
Moqueca de Langosta – Peppers, coconut cream
Cuarto
Pay de Queso chocolatoso – Strawberry & hibiscus compote, strawberry & rosewater shortbread
Final
Oishii Strawberry

Whether planning a romantic evening or a celebratory night out, Ficoa’s Valentine’s weekend offering highlights the restaurant’s bold, contemporary approach to Neo-Latin cuisine, pairing vibrant flavours with thoughtful hospitality in an intimate setting.

Aburi Tora
IG. @aburitoratoronto
📍612B-3401 Dufferin Street

Aburi Tora, located inside Yorkdale Shopping Centre, is featuring a Valentine-inspired feature menu called Be My Love, created by Young Son, that celebrates romance through refined Japanese flavours and playful touches of sweetness. Available from February 11–28, this limited-time offering highlights delicate seafood, vibrant seasonal ingredients, and elegant desserts — each dish thoughtfully designed for sharing, indulgence, and moments worth savouring.

From the luxurious Truffle Lobster Nigiri to the visually striking Aburi Hotate Sashimi with strawberry shiso salsa, alongside heart-themed cocktails and classic wagashi, every item balances sophistication with a subtle nod to Valentine’s Day. Whether for date nights, celebrations, or simply treating yourself, Be My Love Features invites guests to experience love at first bite. No reservations are needed to dine here.

Be My Love Features
Heart Highball
strawberry puree, lychee, lime juice, whiskey, gingerale, heart-shaped strawberry
Truffle Lobster Nigiri
lobster, black truffle, truffle miku sauce
Red Roll
Yellow fin tuna, crab meat, tamago, asparagus, wasabi masatake
Aburi Hotate Sashimi
Hokkaido scallop, strawberry shiso salsa, strawberry puree, Hanoho flower
Wagashi
White bean paste, red bean paste

Favorites Thai
IG. @myfavethai
📍141 Ossington Ave

For those planning a Valentine’s dinner for a more intimate and chef-driven approach, Favorites Thai will offer a 6-course prix fixe experience priced at $110 per person–exclusive of tax and gratuity– on February 14. Guests have the option to add beverage pairings for an additional $50 per person. Led by head chef Ronnie Xu, the four-time MICHELIN Bib Gourmand–recognized restaurant recently introduced a refined menu shaped by his travels through East Asia, emphasizing charcoal cooking, fire-driven technique, and balanced Thai flavours. Guests can expect signature Thai flavour profiles alongside evolving dishes that highlight Japanese binchotan charcoal grilling and foundational elements such as nam jim, delivering bold yet precise flavours in a warm, energetic setting suited for date nights or small gatherings.

Reservations are available on Opentable HERE.

#FOOD HOLIDAY MENUS AT MINAMI, MIKU, ABURI TORA, ABURI SUSHI WATERWORKS, LYLA, FICOA, HARBOUR SIXTY, AND MORE

This holiday season, celebrate in style with Toronto’s top restaurants and bars. From exclusive Holiday Kaiseki Tasting Menus to festive cocktails and special dining experiences, these destinations capture the elegance and spirit of the season through premium ingredients, thoughtful pairings, and signature hospitality. Whether you are planning an intimate dinner, a festive night out, or a memorable holiday party, each spot offers something unique for every kind of celebration.

Minami
IG. @minamitoronto
225 King St. W

At Minami Toronto, guests are invited to celebrate the season in style with a 5-course Holiday Kaiseki Tasting Menu curated by Head Chef Nao Akutagawa, available from December 1 to 30. This elegant dining experience captures the spirit of the holidays through refined craftsmanship, luxurious ingredients, and the harmony of Minami’s Japanese tapas offerings. Each course can be enhanced with an optional Premium Wine and Sake Pairing curated by Beverage Manager Angela Allan. The Holiday Kaiseki is priced at $110 (plus taxes & gratuity), with the pairing available for $45 (plus taxes & gratuity), and is offered during dinner service only. Guests can reserve a spot HERE via OpenTable.

Minami Toronto’s Holiday 5-Course Kaiseki Menu
$110 | Optional wine & sake pairing +$45

Snow Crab Monaka
Delicate monaka shell with snow crab, brown butter, daikon radish, dried apricot, and nasturtium
Scallop Crudo
Hokkaido scallop dressed in coconut saikyo miso sauce, basil oil, kaluga caviar, purple ninja radish, and pickled Anaheim pepper
Sushi Selection
6-piece sushi selection
Braised Wagyu Roll
braised wagyu, lemon aioli, pickled vegetables, wasabi nori powder, green onion curl, chives
Smoked Salmon Bacon Oshi
Bite smoked bacon, salmon oshi
Uni Toro Don
ikura, uni, toro
Aburi Oshi Duo
ebi oshi, hamachi oshi
Aburi Nigiri Duo
maguro nigiri, madai nigiri
Soy-Braised Pork Belly
Roasted parsnip purée, chicharrón, roasted plum, charred gem lettuce, caramel apple gastrique, and grape
Vanilla Bean Cheesecake
White chocolate cinnamon crumble, fig and berry confiture, matcha ice cream, crafted by MICHELIN Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi

Looking to host a festive group dinner or team gathering? Learn more about Minami Toronto’s private dining packages HERE.

Guests can reserve a spot to enjoy Minami Toronto’s Holiday Kaiseki HERE via OpenTable.

Miku
IG. @mikutoronto
10 Bay St.

At Miku Toronto, guests are invited to celebrate the season with a 7-course Holiday Kaiseki Tasting Menu curated by Chef de Cuisine Michael Acero, available from December 1 to 30. This festive dining experience blends the sophistication of Japanese fine dining with the richness of seasonal flavours, featuring premium ingredients and the signature artistry of Aburi cuisine. Each course can be elevated with an optional Premium Wine and Sake Pairing that has been thoughtfully selected to complement the flavours of the menu. The Holiday Kaiseki is priced at $175 (plus taxes & gratuity), with an optional wine & sake pairing available for $60 (plus taxes & gratuity), and is offered during dinner service only at Miku Toronto. Bookings to enjoy this festive experience can be reserved HERE via OpenTable.

Miku Toronto’s Holiday 7-Course Kaiseki Menu
$175 | Optional wine & sake pairing +$60
Amuse
Wagyu Tartare SASHIMI
Akami, Atlantic Salmon, Hokkaido Scallop, Madai, Buri
Hassun
King Oyster Mushroom Tempura, Buttermilk Dashi Boquerones, Shiso Salsa Verde, Rye Scallop Piccata, Fried Capers, Yuzu Zest
Fish
Roasted Black Cod Tororo Kombu Velouté, Charred Negi, Kabu
Sushi
A5 Japanese Wagyu Nigiri, Salmon Oshi Bite, Konbujime Hirame, Sawara, Ikura Uni Mini Don’
Japanese Wagyu
A5 Wagyu Striploin, Swiss Chard, Zucchini, Pickled Mushroom, Pan Jus
Desssert
Black Forest Soy Tofu Cream Espuma, Cherry Compote, Brown Rice Crisps, Flourless Chocolate Cake, Maple Ice Cream, by MICHELIN-Star Executive Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi

Guests can enjoy Miku Toronto’s Holiday Kaiseki HERE via OpenTable.

Aburi TORA
IG. @aburitoratoronto
3401 Dufferin St (Yorkdale Mall)

For those who prefer to celebrate the season from the comfort of home, TORA Yorkdale is offering an exclusive Holiday Sushi Platter, available only for delivery through Ritual, DoorDash, or Uber Eats. This festive assortment showcases TORA’s signature Aburi sushi, premium cuts, and high-quality ingredients, creating a luxurious at-home dining experience without the need to brave the cold. Whether you are planning a cozy night in or looking for an effortless yet elevated holiday meal, TORA delivers a vibrant and celebratory sushi experience straight to your door.

Aburi Sushi at Waterworks Food Hall
IG. @aburisushi.toronto
50 Brant St.

Aburi Sushi at Waterworks Food Hall is continuing its monthly Tuesday hot pot dining series with a one-night-only Bluefin Tuna Shabu Shabu experience on December 16, led by Chef Ryotaro Matsuzaki. This special 10-course event invites guests to enjoy premium seafood and warm Japanese flavours during the festive season. The dinner takes place at Waterworks Food Hall with seatings at 6pm and 8pm, and tickets are priced at $125 (plus taxes & gratuity). Guests can reserve a spot to enjoy this dinner HERE via Tock.

Bluefin Tuna shabu shabu dinner menu
Hamachi Monaka with caviar
Aburi Sashimi Duo hotate and salmon
Bluefin Tuna Shabu Shabu with assorted vegetables
Wagyu Temaki
Yellowtail Temaki
Filefish Temaki
Salmon Oshi Temaki
Golden Eye Snapper Temaki
Toro Taku Temaki with miso soup
Ginger Panna Cotta

Tickets can be purchased HERE through Tock, with limited seating available.

Lyla
IG. @lylatoronto
60 Sudbury St

Celebrate the holidays in unforgettable style at Lyla. Whether you are planning a corporate gathering, a festive soirée with friends or an elegant family celebration, Lyla’s Private Gold Room offers an intimate setting for 9 to 20 guests. When dining in the Private Gold Room, guests may choose from one of three exquisite set menus. Begin planning your holiday event today and secure your reservation at Lyla through OpenTable HERE.

Step into a world of warmth and culinary indulgence with Lyla’s three set-menu experiences: The Lyla Signature Table, The Lyla Select Table and The Lyla Reserve Table. Curated by Lyla’s Executive Chef, Michael Medeiros, each menu is crafted to elevate your celebration, weaving together thoughtful courses that feel both festive and refined.

The Lyla Signature Table
A beautifully balanced journey at $99 per person, the Signature Table opens with bright, seasonal flavours. Guests are welcomed with dishes such as silky cauliflower with hummus and mint and luxurious scallops. Chapter Two offers indulgence with comforting Rigatoni Al Brasato Di Manzo, tender Duck Duo with a za’atar pomegranate glaze, Branzino grilled to perfection, or the iconic Linguine All’Aragosta enriched with velvety lobster bisque. The evening concludes with Lyla’s beloved tiramisu, a sweet finish to a sumptuous feast.

The Lyla Select Table
A more opulent interpretation of the Lyla experience at $119 per person, the Select Table begins with elevated starters such as the Hamachi Crudo with plum wine jelly, Moroccan Octopus touched with harissa and burrata atop marinated beets. Mains offer unforgettable richness, including Lamb Tenderloin with pomme purée and golden raisins, Steak au Poivre with garlic fries, grilled Madai with candied walnuts or the signature Linguine All’Aragosta. Each course feels celebratory, once again closing with Lyla’s decadent tiramisu.

The Lyla Reserve Table
The pinnacle of holiday dining at Lyla, at $139, the Reserve Table is served family-style and encourages sharing. Begin with an abundant spread of house-made dips, a Grand Plateau of caviar, oysters, prawns and crudo and delicate Spanish croquettes. The second chapter showcases a showstopping prime Ribeye, silky pomme purée, broccolini with chilli crisp, the daily rotating fish and the signature lobster linguine. It is celebratory dining at its most impressive, elegantly concluding with Lyla’s tiramisu.

Enhance the Celebration
Personalize your event with thoughtful enhancements, from bespoke florals and holiday table décor to name cards, balloons, personalized menus and a full photobooth setup. Lyla’s team also offers complete event planning services to ensure everything feels seamless, beautiful and entirely your own. For décor and event customizations, contact events@lylatoronto.com.
Make this holiday season unforgettable at Lyla. Reserve your celebration now through OpenTable HERE.

Harbour Sixty & Estelle
60 Harbour Street, Toronto, ON
IG. @harboursixty

This holiday season, Harbour Sixty invites guests to celebrate in spaces that reflect the restaurant’s legacy of grandeur, craftsmanship, and unparalleled hospitality. From intimate gatherings to large-scale festivities, each private dining room and event space offers a setting defined by refined design, meticulous detail, and the elevated service that has long distinguished Harbour Sixty as one of Toronto’s most iconic destinations.

THE COMMISSIONER’S ROOM
Second Floor — Seating Capacity: 24
For holiday gatherings marked by warmth, exclusivity, and timeless elegance, The Commissioner’s Room provides an extraordinary backdrop. Located on the second floor, this historic private dining room features an intricately carved wood ceiling and an atmosphere where old-world grandeur meets modern sophistication.

Equipped with an LCD TV (cloud-based support, direct wired connectivity, and K-ray technology) and Bluetooth-enabled music, the room allows guests to craft a celebration that feels entirely their own. From intimate family dinners to refined corporate holiday events, The Commissioner’s Room offers a setting where every moment feels distinguished.

THE VINTAGES ROOM
Ground Floor — Seating Capacity: 22–40
The Vintages Room invites guests to host their holiday celebrations in a sanctuary of intimate luxury. Located on the ground floor, the room is adorned with rich textures, bespoke décor, and a breathtaking rose gold–clad wine collection—creating an atmosphere as indulgent as the season itself.
The space includes an LCD TV with cloud-based support, direct wired connectivity, and K-ray technology, along with Bluetooth-enabled music, giving hosts full control over their event experience. A private bar enhances the exclusivity, making The Vintages Room ideal for holiday dinners, elegant cocktail receptions, and festive corporate gatherings.

ESTELLE
Third Floor Event Space — Seating Capacity: 100
For those seeking a grander stage for holiday celebrations, Estelle offers a sumptuously appointed event venue on the third floor. This elegant space brings together the best of Harbour Sixty and Arianna, featuring premium food and drink offerings from both venues within a beautifully designed setting.
Event menus are curated to deliver bespoke, elevated experiences with refined dishes and impeccable service. Outfitted with discrete, ultra-modern AV capabilities and supported by a dedicated team of event professionals, Estelle ensures every detail is designed and executed at the highest level.

ESTELLE PRIVATE DINING: THE CELLAR
The Cellar, situated on the third floor, offers an intimate, low-lit setting surrounded by an exceptional collection of fine wines. It is an ideal venue for holiday gatherings that call for understated luxury—perfect for wine-focused dinners, festive tastings, or intimate celebrations with those who appreciate the art of pairing.

ESTELLE PRIVATE DINING: LOUIS XIII ROOM
Seating Capacity: 18
The Louis XIII Room evokes historical elegance with its inspiration drawn from the architectural brilliance of the Louis XIII era, making it a standout option for holiday celebrations seeking a regal touch. Designed for smaller groups, this richly appointed room accommodates up to 18 guests and features an LCD TV (cloud-based support, direct wired connectivity, and K-ray technology), Bluetooth connectivity, and a private bar.
Private dining rooms at Harbour Sixty offer an atmosphere of refined luxury—an ideal setting for intimate holiday dinners, high-touch corporate gatherings, or celebratory moments that demand an elevated backdrop.

Reservations for Harbour Sixty can be made HERE.

Arianna
60 Harbour Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, ON
IG. @arianna.restaurant

Seasonal Pasta Features & Private Dining at Arianna
This December, Arianna invites guests to embrace the holiday season with a month-long celebration of pasta. Each week, Chef de Cuisine Scott MacKenzie and the culinary team will unveil three rotating pasta features—available daily—crafted through Arianna’s modern Italian lens. While dish details will be announced throughout the month, diners can expect housemade pastas, winter-forward ingredients, and the restaurant’s signature balance of elegance, warmth, and a touch of irreverence.

ARIANNA PRIVATE DINING ROOMS: EAST & WEST
For those looking to host family, friends, or corporate groups in the most refined, intimate, and thoughtful setting this holiday season, Arianna’s two private dining rooms offer an unparalleled option.
Situated on the prestigious fourth floor of the iconic Toronto Harbour Commission building, each room is nonadjacent to ensure complete privacy and showcases a panorama of modern sophistication. Rich finishes, warm lighting, and meticulous attention to detail create a space designed for exceptional occasions.

Room Specifications:

• Maximum capacity: 12 guests
• LCD TV equipped with cloud-based support, direct wired connectivity, and K-ray technology
• Bluetooth-enabled audio system allowing guests to curate their own music
  Whether for a celebratory dinner, year-end gathering, or a moment of quiet luxury with those who matter most, Arianna’s private dining rooms deliver an experience of the highest echelon.

Reservations for Arianna can be made HERE.

Little Sister
2031 Yonge St & 102 Portland St, Toronto, ON
IG. @littlesisterto

Toronto’s most spirited holiday pop-up has grown up. Little Sister, the city’s acclaimed Dutch-Indo food bar, returns this season with its iconic festive takeover—Java Jingle—opening November 13th and running through December 31st across both of its Toronto locations at 102 Portland St. and 2031 Yonge St. This year, the takeover has been refreshed with a Winter Wonderland theme, bringing a new look and experience to the season. Reservations can be made HERE for Portland St. and HERE for Yonge St.
The pop-up became a cult favourite among Toronto’s nightlife crowd for its extravagant décor and nostalgic holiday energy. This year, Little Sister is introducing a new chapter: one that keeps the warmth and conviviality of the season but trades in over-the-top kitsch for a subtler, more refined experience.

Two highlights guests can expect on the menu include:
Noggy Colada – (new)
Bumbu Rum, coconut liqueur, pineapple liqueur, eggnog, coconut cream, eggnog bitters
Polar Express (Drink for 2) – (new)
Finlandia Vodka, gingerbread liqueur, condensed milk, ginger coffee syrup, milk-washed

In keeping with tradition, the full Little Sister food menu will remain available throughout the pop-up’s run, ensuring guests can enjoy the restaurant’s signature Dutch-Indo dishes alongside the limited-edition cocktails.

Java Jingle runs from November 13 through December 31 at both locations, with reservations strongly recommended.

Guests can reserve HERE for Portland St. and HERE for Yonge St.

Ficoa
585 College St, Toronto, ON
IG. @ficoa.to

This holiday season, Ficoa—Little Italy’s beloved Neo-Latin fine dining restaurant—offers an elevated destination for group bookings and seasonal events. The venue blends sophisticated ambiance with warm hospitality, while menus crafted by Chef Esau Garcia highlight fresh, local ingredients and beautifully executed flavours. Each group booking includes a 30-minute consultation with the Ficoa team, ensuring every detail is tailored to guests’ event needs. A minimum of five business days’ notice is required for bookings of this nature.

Bar
The Bar balances lively energy with cozy warmth, ideal for intimate holiday gatherings. It accommodates up to 10 guests for a standing reception or up to 8 guests for a seated cocktail hour.
Private Room
The private lounge provides an intimate, welcoming atmosphere suited for festive dinners or small group celebrations. It comfortably seats up to 12 guests at a single large table.
Dining Room
The dining room offers refined elegance and relaxed hospitality. With flexible seating for up to 24 guests, it is an excellent setting for celebratory holiday dinners. Warm lighting and thoughtful décor support both communal and multi-table configurations.

Offerings

• Dinner Prix Fixe: Standard menu – $140 per guest | Premium menu – $200 per guest.
  • Brunch Prix Fixe: Starting at $60 per guest | Available between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm.
• Cocktail Reception: Available for up to 50 standing guests | Final price per guest available upon request.
• Family Style: Starting at $80 per guest | Available for a minimum of 10 guests.
• Beverage Packages: Available in ticketed bar or open tab format.
  With versatile spaces and packages, elevated cuisine, and seamless service, Ficoa stands as an exceptional choice for holiday gatherings, group events, and seasonal celebrations.
  Reservations for Ficoa can be made HERE.

Suite 115
IG. @suite115.to
532 College St.

Suite 115 at College is celebrating the season with a festive Christmas Beverage Menu, featuring three indulgent cocktails crafted with rich winter flavours and premium spirits. Perfect for holiday gatherings, after-work celebrations, or a warm treat on a chilly evening, each drink brings a playful twist to classic Christmas favourites.

Suite 114 Christmas Menu

115 Mulled Wine
Red wine, Dewar’s 12 Scotch Whisky, Grand Marnier, black currant, vanilla, winter spices

115 Mulled Cider

Cider, Dewar’s Caribbean Smooth Rum Cask Finish, Frangelico, ginger, winter spices, repurposed brown butter

No Nog Sense

D’ussé VSOP Cognac, Forty Creek Cinnamon Bun, peanut whisky, cinnamon liqueur, nutmeg, cream

These cocktails are available exclusively at Suite 115, offering guests a cozy and elevated way to celebrate the season!

#FOOD: CHEFS ESAU GARCIA X ANDRÉS JARAMILLO FICOA X ABRIELLE COLLABORATION

On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, two of Toronto’s leading Neo-Latin chefs—Esau Garcia of Ficoa and Andrés Jaramillo of Abrielle—bring their MICHELIN-recognized experience from previous kitchens, unite for Scripted Plates, the first in a series one-night tasting experiences hosted by Ficoa (585 College St.). The first edition featuring Abrielle will explore the meeting point of Neo-Latin fire and Mediterranean calm. Garcia, whose culinary path spans from Totti’s in Australia to celebrated Toronto kitchens such as Rosalinda, Lena, and Madrina Bar y Tapas—brings his signature wood-fired intensity. Jaramillo, who began cooking at just 15, rose to national attention on MasterChef Colombia, and refined his craft at Alobar and Alder before leading Abrielle, brings a soulful Mediterranean expression. Together, they will present a tasting that celebrates passion, technique, and culinary artistry.
Guests can reserve their seats [HERE].

“We didn’t set out to fuse cuisines,” says Garcia. “We wanted to let them speak to each other. Abrielle is Mediterranean, but Andrés brings a vibrant Colombian perspective that naturally complements my Mexican roots and Ficoa’s Neo-Latin approach. Food is a universal language, and this collaboration is our conversation on the plate.”

Each seating will feature a curated tasting menu priced at $180 with alcoholic pairings or $160 with non-alcoholic pairings, exclusive of tax and gratuity. The pairings—designed collaboratively between the two bar programs—highlight complementary expressions of minerality, smoke, and acidity.

The first in an ongoing series of chef collabs by Ficoa, Scripted Plates also gestures toward something larger: the city’s growing appetite for cross-genre dining, where chefs engage in conversation rather than competition. Scripted Plates reflects that shift—a confidence that Toronto’s culinary identity no longer fits neatly into borders.

Event Details
Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Location: Ficoa — 585 College Street West, Toronto
Seatings: 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM
Tasting Menu: $180 with alcoholic pairings | $160 with non-alcoholic pairings
(Prices exclude tax and gratuity)
Reservations can be made [HERE].

About the Chefs

Executive Chef Esau Garcia, Executive Chef, Ficoa
Known for his soulful precision and globally informed take on Latin cuisine, Chef Esau Garcia’s résumé includes leadership roles at Toronto’s MICHELIN-recognized Madrina Bar y Tapas and acclaimed restaurants such as Rosalinda and Lena. His culinary philosophy—respect the ingredients, honour tradition, elevate the plate—guides Ficoa’s exploration of modern Latin fine dining.

Executive Chef Andrés Jaramillo, Executive Chef, Abrielle
Hailing from Colombia, Chef Andrés Jaramillo is the Executive Chef at Abrielle, the modern fine dining destination inside The Sutton Place Hotel Toronto. Since opening in June 2023, he has shaped Abrielle’s acclaimed à la carte and tasting menus, celebrated for their seasonal focus, precise technique, and bold, globally inspired flavours.

His tasting menus—often booked weeks in advance—showcase his talent for storytelling through food, creating dining experiences that are both memorable and heartfelt.

Recognized as a rising force in Canada’s culinary scene, Chef Andrés continues to push creative boundaries while fostering a culture of excellence and mentorship in his kitchen.

About Ficoa
Founded by serial restaurateur Patricia Toro in 2023, Ficoa is a Neo-Latin fine dining restaurant in Toronto’s Little Italy. Under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Esau Garcia, Ficoa reimagines Latin flavours through a globally influenced lens—layering tradition, technique, and emotion into every dish. The restaurant is known for its seasonal tasting menus, polished service, and intimate, design-forward dining room.
IG: @ficoa.to | W: ficoa.ca

About Abrielle
Abrielle in downtown Toronto showcases the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean Coast, with fresh, high-quality ingredients shaping bold, authentic dishes. The menu draws inspiration from the South of France, Italy, and Spain, with touches from surrounding regions.
IG: @abrielleto | W: abrielle.ca

#FOOD: FICOA PRESENT HALLOWEEN THREE-COCKTAIL FLIGHT

Ficoa, the Neo-Latin fine dining restaurant in Little Italy, is marking Halloween with a one-night-only three-cocktail tasting flight designed to capture the spirit of the season. Available Friday, October 31st, 2025 the $45 flight (exclusive of tax and tip) offers a focused showcase of the restaurant’s talented team, with bar lead Brendan McFarlane and chef Esau Garcia showcasing culinary-forward cocktails with refined techniques.

The flight includes three original cocktails from Ficoa’s Mixology Spellbook menu:
•Zorro Toro — a clarified sour with rye, Licor 43, lemon, orange bitters, and cinnamon, finished with a red wine float.
•Marigold — a tequila and turmeric penicillin built on blanco tequila, ginger, and honey.
•King Maiz — a sweet corn White Russian that replaces cream with a plant-based corn version, paired with vodka and coffee liqueur.

Together, they form a progression that moves from bright and spiced to rich and smooth, echoing the restaurant’s broader approach to flavour—rooted in Latin tradition, expressed with a modern sensibility.

Led by house mixologist Brenden McFarlane, Ficoa’s bar program mirrors the precision and creativity of the kitchen, where Executive Chef Esau Garcia continues to evolve the restaurant’s Latin-inspired direction.
The Halloween cocktail flight will be available one night only on October 31st from 5 p.m. until close.

Reserve Ficoa HERE.

#FOOD: FALL 2025 MENUS – TORONTO’S LYLA, LUNCH LADY, FICOA, HARBOUR SIXTY, ARIANNA

This fall, Toronto’s most notable dining destinations are rolling out seasonal offerings designed to celebrate comfort, tradition, and culinary creativity. Miku will mark the holiday with a special Thanksgiving buffet, while Lyla, Lunch Lady, Ficoa, Harbour Sixty and Arianna unveil menu items that highlight the flavours and spirit of the season. From festive gatherings to intimate dinners, these restaurants are giving Torontonians a reason to dine out and embrace fall’s best flavours.

Miku

Waterpark Place – 10 Bay St

W. mikutoronto.com

IG. @mikutoronto

On Sunday, October 12, Miku Toronto invites guests to celebrate Thanksgiving with a Japanese Seafood and Prime Rib Buffet crafted by Chef de Cuisine Michael Acero and Head Pastry Chef Glenda San Jose. Offered during lunch service only, this exclusive experience features Miku’s signature creations and Aburi favourites at the restaurant’s scenic waterfront location, along with a featured Thanksgiving cocktail and mocktail available for purchase. The à la carte menu will not be available at this time. Pricing is $95 for adults, $35 for children aged 7–12, and complimentary for children six and under (plus tax and gratuity). Guests can reserve a spot and enjoy the buffet HERE.

Whether gathering with friends or family, guests are invited to mark the holiday with an indulgent dining experience that brings together the richness of prime rib, the freshness of seasonal seafood, and the artistry of Japanese cuisine. Miku’s Thanksgiving buffet offers a memorable way to celebrate Thanksgiving in style.

Seafood and Prime Rib Thanksgiving Buffet

Raw Bar

Chef Selected Sashimi
Shrimp Cocktail with Yuzu Cocktail Sauce
Seared Tuna Tataki with Truffle Ponzu

Appetizers
Salmon Nanbanzuke (Chilled Marinated Fried Salmon)
Kinpira (Sliced Root Vegetables)
Dashimaki (Japanese Omelette)
Mentaiko (Pollock Roe)
Seaweed Salad
Miso Soup

Sushi
Aburi Oshi Sushi Station
Chef Selection of Aburi Nigiri
Chef Selection of Maki Sushi

Kitchen Signatures

Prime Rib Carving Station
Roast Turkey with Sage Apple Stuffing
Make-Your-Own Ramen Station
Aji Katsu ‘Spanish Mackerel’ Fry
Chicken Karaage
Atlantic Miso Yaki
Panko-Breaded Oysters ‘Kaki’ Fry

Dessert
Petit Green Tea Opera
Tahitian Vanilla Cheesecake
Jasmine Tea Ice Cream

Pops, teas, and coffee included.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends at Miku Toronto. Reserve now through OpenTable HERE.

Lyla

60 Sudbury St.

W. lylatoronto.com

IG. @lylatoronto

As Lyla ushers in the fall season, the restaurant leans into Ontario’s local harvest with a menu that captures the warmth and refinement of fall dining: a few highlights include the Duck Duo, Rigatoni al Brasato di Manzo, and their signature fall cocktail, Soul Tie.

Duck Duo ($59 + tax)
This refined dish features a 7-day dry-aged, 8 oz seared Ontario duck breast, paired with three duck confit croquettes. It’s served with a silky carrot purée, za’atar pomegranate glaze, and finished with a spiced duck jus. Rich, bold, and beautifully balanced, perfect for fall dining.

Rigatoni al Brasato di Manzo ($35 + tax)
A comforting yet elevated pasta made with slow-braised Ontario beef short rib, finished with a deeply savoury short rib jus and topped with a light ricotta espuma. It’s the kind of warm, hearty dish that guests crave as the weather cools down.

Soul Tie ($25 + tax) (Clarified Cocktail)

This is Lyla’s fall cocktail feature, a bold and aromatic clarified drink made with Bearface Whisky, Amaro Nonnino, absinthe, pomegranate and lime juice, and a house-made ginger & Thai chili syrup. It’s clarified through a 24-hour milk wash, resulting in a smooth, complex cocktail that’s both visually stunning and rich in flavour.

To reserve a table at Lyla, visit the OpenTable link HERE

Lunch Lady

93 Ossington Ave.

W. thelunchlady.com

IG. @thelunchladytoronto

This fall, Lunch Lady leans into the season with two dishes that balance comfort, nostalgia, and refinement. Drawing from Vietnamese culinary traditions and elevated with thoughtful technique, these plates invite diners to experience familiar flavours in a new light.

Phở Bò Wagyu – Wagyu Beef Noodle Soup ($36 + tax)

This dish transforms the classic noodle soup into a rich, layered experience. Rare wagyu zabuton, beef cheek, ox tail, and bone marrow come together in a deeply flavourful 24-hour beef broth, finished with rice noodles and a slow-poached egg. The result is a bowl that feels both luxurious and deeply soulful.

Nui Xào Bò – Rigatoni Short Rib ($32 + tax)

Lunch Lady’s Nui Xào Bò reimagines a recipe rooted in childhood memories for many Vietnamese families. Once a humble stir-fry made with macaroni, leftovers, and pantry sauces, this version dials up the depth with rigatoni tossed in the familiar sweet-salty flavours of the dish, paired with the richness of braised short rib in the style of beef bourguignon. It’s a beloved staple that manages to be nostalgic and modern all at once, perfect for cooler days ahead.

To reserve a table at Lunch Lady visit the OpenTable link HERE

Arianna

4th Floor – 60 Harbour St. Toronto, ON

W. harbour60.com/arianna

IG. @arianna.harboursixty

From October 10–13, Arianna at the Harbour Sixty invites guests to enjoy exclusive Thanksgiving specials, crafted just for the holiday. Located in the iconic Harbour Sixty building, the space feels both lively and intimate; a perfect backdrop for celebrations with friends or family. Featured dishes include:

Fried Chicken Piccata with white corn grits and burnt lemon ($47)

Fried Brussels Sprouts with bagna cauda and brown anchovy ($18)

Squash Agnolotti with pickled delicata and brown butter crumb ($28)

Chef de Cuisine Scott MacKenzie balances hearty, comforting flavours with refined technique, ensuring each dish is a celebration of the season.

To reserve Arianna, visit Opentable HERE.

Harbour Sixty

60 Harbour St. Toronto, ON

W. harbour60.com

IG. @harboursixty

Prime Rib ($99)

For a more traditional Thanksgiving, Harbour Sixty is offering prime rib on Sunday evening of Thanksgiving (available exclusively during dinner service), served with Yorkshire pudding, pommes purée, and jus.

Harbour Sixty’s “Famous” Coconut Cream Pie (Pre-Order; $120)

A highlight of the holiday menu is Harbour Sixty’s “Famous” Coconut Cream Pie, layered with Vanilla Bean Chantilly, toasted coconut, and Dulcey chocolate. This decadent showstopper is available as a whole pie (serves 8), with orders requiring 48 hours’ notice by calling the restaurant.

Executive Chef Solomon Mason and his team maintain the steakhouse’s legendary quality while creating a festive yet approachable dining experience for guests seeking a luxurious Thanksgiving feast.

To reserve Harbour Sixty, visit Opentable HERE.

Ficoa

585 College St. Toronto, ON

W. ficoa.ca

IG. @ficoa.to

While closed on Thanksgiving Day, Ficoa invites Torontonians to celebrate Friendsgiving during the holiday week. Chef Esau Garcia has curated a selection from the a la carte menu to showcase the season’s bounty and Latin culinary tradition. Highlights include:

Molotes — cheese-stuffed plantains with salsa tatemada and crema ($8)

Empanadas — corn masa filled with braised short rib, queso cotija, crema, and aji salsa ($15)

Pollo a la Brasa — Peruvian-style roasted chicken with citrus and fresh herb jus ($40)

La Joya — 10 oz wagyu flat iron with chimichurri and shiitake mulato butter ($85)

Papas a la Huancaína — baby potatoes, Peruvian cheese foam, grated cured egg yolk, dehydrated black olives ($10)

For the main course, Ficoa recommends pairing the Pollo Asado with Papas a la Huancaína and La Joya, reflecting Chef Garcia’s focus on Ontario’s micro-seasons and his playful reinterpretation of Latin flavours.

To reserve Ficoa, visit Opentable HERE.

#FIRSTLOOK: FICOA CELEBRATE LATIN HERITAGE MONTH 2025

In celebration of Latin Heritage Month, Ficoa — Toronto’s Neo-Latin fine dining destination in Little Italy — is launching a special six-course tasting menu crafted by Executive Chef Esau Garcia. Available from September 17 through October 11 for $98 per guest, the menu offers a culinary journey through the diverse flavours and histories of Latin America. Guests can also choose to elevate their experience with a Chef’s pairing, including cocktails, for an additional $85. Reservations can be made via OpenTable HERE.

Chef Esau’s inspiration for this tasting menu is rooted in honouring the people and heritage that have shaped Latin American culture. Each dish draws from the historical and regional richness of the continent —from the Andes to the Amazon, and the Caribbean to the pampas—blending tradition and refinement into an immersive dining experience.

Incas (Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia)
Tiradito de Atún — celebrating coastal influences of the Inca civilization.

Tainos (Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola)
Yuca Negra with salsa brava de camarón and tierra de cangrejo — honouring foundational island ingredients.

Yaquis (Northern Mexico)
Chef’s take on Kokkoibaki — featuring short ribs, chillies, onion ash, and potato foam.

Mapuche (Chile, Argentina)
Chilean Sea Bass with merken beurre blanc and roasted leeks in escabeche — highlighting the smoky spice of the region.

#TIFF25: MR. WILL PRESENTS OFFICIAL PARTNERS FOR THE 2025 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

It’s Will Wong season, everyone! We are delighted to be back and at it in our thriving season as tiff50 is before us! We are so grateful for your many years of support. Having a loyal, passionate readership and following makes it all so worthwhile and we promise not to let you down! Team Mr. Will is ready to go, ready to deliver you reviews of all the hottest films to present at the Festival, and also stars, big and emerging to visit for the Festival!

Be sure to follow for all the updates:

Dave Baldwin (@dmabaldwin)

Amanda Gilmore (@gilmoreamanda)

Justin Waldman (@dubsreviews)

Nicholas Porteous (@picolas)

Mr. Will (@mrwillwong)

We are thrilled to present to you our amazing official partners for the Festival this year. We wouldn’t be able to bring you the Festival at the scale we do without their generosity and support. And there just might be something in it for you guys too! That’s why you need to be following on FB, IG and X.

CP24 – This will mark our 16th year contributing to CP24’s TIFF coverage. Stay tuned to Southwestern Ontario’s leading news channel for our exclusive sightings and updates, and as always we will be appearing live throughout the Festival. There may even be a beanie sighting! We’ll be on multiple times, starting with appearances on August 31, 2025 on Live at 5, September 4, 2025 and September 9, 2025 in the morning.

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GOOGLE PIXEL & GEMINI LIVE – Google Pixel is an official partner of TIFF ’25 and we are thrilled also to using this wonderphone for our TIFF coverage, including those “world famous selfies”! Together with its Circle Search to see what celebs are wearing (and hence, finding affordable dupes) and also Magic Editor to remove unwanted distractions from photos, this is the perfect phone for us! The star of the show will be Gemini Live on our phone, will help us quickly whip together a schedule for TIFF, plus which films suit our personal preferences!

HONDA CANADA – We are teaming-up with our friends at Honda Canada to drive a 2025 Honda Accord Touring Hybrid this year at TIFF. Where will our chariot take us? We soon will see! The midsize luxury sedan with a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, 16-Valve DOHC with Dual Variable Timing Control (VTC) engine, Luxury and purpose, a perfect drive for our every day and hectic lifestyle. Incredible fuel economy at 5.0/5.7/5.3 litres/100 km and a litany of active and passive safety features.

STARBUCKS CANADA – We are proud to partner once again with our longtime supporters once again. TIFF and PSL Season are synonymous with one another! The PSL is back for its 22nd year at Starbucks, while TIFF is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Fun fact – The PSL is the #1 limited-time offering in Starbucks history. New to the Fall menu this year are the Pecan Oat Cortado & Mini Everything Bagels!

HARBOUR SIXTY – This Toronto icon is known as THE SPOT that stars go to while in the City, to enjoy the creations of Chef Solomon Mason and team. After a gorgeous renovation and the introduction of new event spaces and superb Italian by Ariana, this icon is reborn and better than ever! Exceptional beef, ambience, and a top-tier dining experience.

FICOA – Situated in the heart of Little Italy, FICOA is re-defining Latin cuisine with an inspired flare under Chef Esau Garcia (Madrina Bar y Tapas), who is known for his Michelin-recognized work. Brunch, A la Carte and Tasting Menus are available, with a strong focus on their outstanding cocktails.

RADICI PROJECT – Also in Little Italy and founded by culinary power couple Chef Emiliano Del Frate (Don Alfonso) and Kayo Ito (Nobu), this beautiful spot fuses Italian and Japanese influences together for exquisite tasing experiences and more!

HELLO NORI – This sensation from BC quickly have made a splash in Toronto since arriving earlier this year, expanding already to a third location in the bustling downtown core. They are one of our favourites for delicious, elevated and fuss-free dining. We will never turn down a hand roll and nobody is doing it better than them! Their house Sake and Draft Matcha also are luscious.

OEB BREAKFAST CO. – The Brunch authority from Calgary has found a welcome home in Toronto, with two thriving locations in the City already. In addition, they are a returning official TIFF hospitality partner again this year. Hands down, our favourite spot to brunch at with the most drool-worthy poutines, blue plates, benedicts, and more.

ETIKET – After some amazing results last TIFF, we are delighted to partner again with this amazing results-driven skincare spa and boutique, selling rare and hard-to-find beauty products and fragrances. Proudly hailing from Montreal, and located at Toronto’s THE WELL, this is an experience unlike no other. Being able to go into the Festival with a fresh face gives us rejuvenation and confidence to approach this very hectic time.

SHEIN – This marks our first time collaborating with this online fashion giant, which has propelled to the forefront these past few years. Even before collaborating with them, I could not resist their chic designs and inclusive sizing. beanie even sports SHEIN. We look forward to showing-off some of our TIFF ’25 looks for you.

PALM SUNDAY – Combining technology, innovation and artistry, this hair salon on Harbord Street delivers not just a look, but a statement! They offer scalp assessments for individual scalp care, transformational hair cuts and colouring.

MANDY’S – The salad queens from Montreal continue to revolutionize the way Torontonians are eating, and well they are eating. Now serving breakfast, and also starring Smoothies, Bowls, and the best cookies too! Three very popular locations in Toronto, and two more to come!

Our top tips to surviving TIFF50!

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We told you there’d be something it it for everyone! One lucky reader will walk away a grand prize winner. Not only will we hand-deliver your prize to you during the Festival, you will win:

-$200 The Radici Project Gift Card
-$150 Ficoa Gift Card
-$100 Hello Nori Gift Card
-A VIP Brunch for 2 at OEB Breakfast Co.
-$25 Mandy’s Salads Gift Card
-$25 Starbucks Canada Gift Card
-Oversize Tote Bag from SHEIN

A value of over $650 CAN!

Throughout the Festival, stay tuned to our social media as there will be additional opportunities to win a $250 gift card at Harbour Sixty, $25 Starbucks Canada Gift Cards, and an OEB Breakfast Co. VIP Brunch as well! You won’t want to miss this!

To enter to win MR. WILL’S TIFF ’25 SURVIVAL PACK, “like” this post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK, IG or X. Tag a friend in the comments you’ll share some of the goodies with. Multiple entries permitted. You MUST be following on Social Media.

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You must be in the Greater Toronto Area or willing to coordinate a visit to pick-up your prize. You must be following on these channels.

Rules and regulations here.