Cafe Bar Pasta: a fierce competitor on the Toronto restaurant scene. This is a pasta bar with teeth. “Within one week’s time, we are going to launch a menu which is going to piss off some restaurateurs in Toronto” – this was the final word from the owner of Cafe Bar Pasta, the new notable spot on Dundas West (very west) as we departed the casual chic venue late one summer evening. It was a hint that the best was yet to be seen. Cafe Bar Pasta sets out to deliver the freshest pasta, with a twist; an outstanding spectrum of wines and deluxe cocktails and a casual but hip setting in an unassuming neighbourhood. It’s the recipe for a perfect Toronto food heaven. This comment sparks our curiosity – how do you make Italian food controversial? What more can be done? The foreshadowing encourages a return visit, and if the experience is anything like the first, we will be back.
Cafe Bar Pasta is serving up no ordinary Toronto pasta. Appetizer through dessert, the menu piques your curiosity, offering the favourites you come expecting with enough twists to bring you pause. To start, we shared the classic meatballs. A tone-setter with delicious, authentic passata and parmesan – let the freshness of the ingredients do the talking. Next, good luck choosing a main. Every option sounds like a must-try, from classics like papardelle pork ragu, to more unique offerings like radiotori duck with appennzeller cheese. We chose ravioli stuffed with bourbon-braised osso buco in a creamy rosé sauce. And we mean stuffed. You don’t often find a pasta dish that allows the meat to truly shine, but in this one it plays the lead role. Embraced by perfectly cooked ravioli and gently smothered with a subtle rosé sauce, you have a winner. To top it all off, a delectable triple chocolate mousse in a hard chocolate shell – the special of the evening. Smooth and rich, it’s a necessary finisher on a hearty Italian feast.
After outstanding results in the first round heat, we look forward to watching the feisty Cafe Bar Pasta come out of the gates with a bang in the gold medal round. Watch for this underdog to take its competitors by storm. Quite frankly, if they can top what they did in round one, it’s no contest.
His rating:
For a Business Meeting: 7/10. Maybe during the Cafe portion of the day, but for dinner the predominant vibe is playful romantic. Not to mention it’s a little off the beaten business path.
With a Group: 9/10. Menu options for all, wine and cocktails galore, private/semi-private dining options; I can’t think of anywhere else you’d want to bring your group.
On a Date: 9/10. You can do a casual coffee date or a full on dinner, drinks and dessert. It’s got what you need for whatever step you’re at.
Her rating:
For a Business Meeting: 7/10. The location is certainly not prime for everyday business interactions, but this is worth the trip. The interior offers enough polish to please most diners and the food without question will deliver. If needed, call ahead and book the private dining room.
With a Group: 9/10. The setup is designed for groups. Whether you prefer the window seat, the chef’s table, the private dining space or something in between, this should be a first round pick for those planning a special celebration amongst friends. Ask the server to prepare a tasting menu. They’ll do it on the spot at a price point that all are comfortable with.
On a Date: 8/10. The tables for two are the minority, but the quirky location and cozy setting sets the right tone for a night of romance.
His last word:
Get into that cocktail list and don’t be afraid to try something new. This is pasta like you won’t get anywhere else.
Her last word:
Try to get a seat at the chef’s table toward the back. Not only will you see and taste great food, but you’ll make some new friends too.
Photos courtesy Cafe Bar Pasta