We’re moving east from Parkdale in this week’s Notable Neighbourhoods and focusing on the Ossington Avenue strip. And no, it’s not just for hipsters anymore. Ossington has an excellent selection of restaurants that are heavy-hitters on TO’s scene, an oh-so-worth your patronage. So what are the Notable faves? Check out the list below…
Golden Turtle – 125 Ossington Avenue
This is quite possibly the best restaurant to get pho at in the city. It’s a top amongst foodies, and for good reason. The famed noodle soup is perfect here, and dirt cheap. But that doesn’t mean the Golden Turtle sacrifices quality. On the contrary, the meat they use is lean, the basil fresh, and the broth is absolute perfection. They underwent a renovation recently, so that old-school cafeteria feel has been updated a bit.
Yours Truly – 229 Ossington Avenue
This gem of a spot opened up late December, and in the few short months since doors were unlocked has already staked a claim on the best new restos in Toronto lists. You get a four-course meal for $45 – or $35 for vegetarians – that is gastronomically superior to many other meals you’ve likely consumed. The cocktails here are fantastic as well, and pair perfectly with Yours Truly’s small bite menu.
Fishbar – 217 Ossington Avenue
You’ve got to love Fishbar. They take their seafood seriously here, bringing some of the freshest under-the-sea fare to your table. It’s great for a date as all the plates have been designed to share. The oysters are always top notch, as are the drinks, like the Octopussy martini. Five or six plates suit two people well, and allow you to sample the breadth of Fishbar’s cuisine.
Delux Restaurant – 92 Ossington Avenue
The dishes here are gorgeous, a perfect compliment to the atmosphere. Delux has one of the city’s best Cubano sandwiches, but this ‘simple’ dish is nothing in comparison to the rest of the restaurant’s rustic French-style fare. Order up some steak frites, or crispy duck confit, and a bottle of your favourite red while dining with your group in subdued sophistication.
Reposado – 136 Ossington Avenue
Reposado is a favourite amongst tequila purists. This isn’t your stereotypical Mexican bar though. It’s classy, intimate, inviting, and not a face-on-the-floor shots spot. You can get into some live jazz on the weekends while sipping at a glass of Tequila Tromba and biting on some spicy pickled veggies – made in-house of course. The vibe is fantastic, and Reposado caters a more refined crowd…like all you Notables.
Photo courtesy Yours Truly
