The Huntsman Tavern (890 College Street W) is the ultimate winter dining venue. While it’s not easy to muster the energy to face the harsh climate of Toronto in January, here lies a cozy sanctuary on the west end of College Street to help lure you out of hibernation. This is a place full of comfort, where carefully chosen decoration and menu options are designed to bring relief to the frigid air outside. Padded leather wall panels, filled dim lights and comfortable deep banquettes create an atmosphere of warmth and consolation, befitting this unique Toronto restaurant. For those YPs looking for a reason to leave the dreary cocoon of winter isolation, this is your refuge.
For dinner, Canadian traditions are on the menu to warm the soul. True to the venue’s name, game and beef of the hunter are there to satisfy. Meat pies delight with their hearty filling paired with light and flakey crust. The signature Huntsman stew is the golden winter offering: braised short rib and venison alongside root vegetables in a thick, dark and seasoned broth. To start, the chorizo corndog offered an interesting twist. Vegetarians: your options are limited.
Brunch lovers, bring the haters. The menu is small but mighty with enough for breakfast or lunch separations. On this occasion, he went for the burger and fries while she opted for the chicken and waffles. The burger is as it should be – bacon, cheese, juices flowing, and some pickled onions for character. Simple, Canadian, and satisfying, following the general theme of this menu stacked with comfort favourites. The chicken and waffles get the job done with golden brown juicy chicken and fluffy waffles – it’s an unusual menu item north of the border, but certainly welcome on a Canadian winter day.
A cast of all-star talent delivers the on the experience. Chef Michael Tan and Sous Chef Nathan Jones rule the roost at The Huntsman; similarly, the cocktail expertise of Aja Sax (often cited as one of the city’s top bartenders in major publications) quarterbacks from behind the bar. Some may call this a dream team.
His rating:
For a Business Meeting: 5/10. It’s not memorable enough to really make an impact, and a little off of the beaten path to make the trip worth it.
With a Group: 6/10. If you are in the area, here is a dependable and delicious stop to catch up with friends.
On a Date: 7/10 .It’s a step above a pub, which makes it a good casual meeting place with a little extra game.
Her rating:
For a Business Meeting: 6/10. Perfect for a casual meeting or a friendly discussion. It does not attempt to be formal, rather warm, casual and polished with outstanding food quality.
With a Group: 6/10. Large groups may have trouble finding the seating space, but a table for four or six is well within range. Price points are appealing and the setting friendly and welcoming.
On a Date: 7/10. This unpretentious and cozy atmosphere is married with five-star cocktails and menu options of various sizes. Grab a drink and a small plate, or make a night of it.
His last word: Not memorable enough to warrant high ratings; solid and satisfying.
Her last word: A cozy space to raise a glass and relax.
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