Valdez – a new addition to the King West restaurant scene – is serving dishes inspired by Latin street food. It’s a place of magical realism, where enchanted elements of flavour and atmosphere are a natural part of an otherwise ‘keepin’ it real’ environment. Burlap sacks from Medellin cover the walls, while polished tabletops reflect the sparkling lights. Upon arriving at Valdez, a strong presence of musicality will envelope your soul and an energetic tempo will fill the air.
It starts at the bar where the classic (classico) harmonizes with the unique (unico) in quality cocktails and lesser-known bourbons. Further enticement calls out from the list of ceviches, available as tasters or flights. A perfect amuse-bouche while you wait for a table, a “taste” of one of these is an understatement. The flavours are bountiful and potent, sending your tastebuds on an absolute trip. She was most impressed with the atun japones ceviche and he with his Rebel Yell bourbon. If your wait is a bit longer, don’t worry, there’s lots of “Stuff” to tide you over (with many under $5).
The “Stuff” portion of the menu is a mecca of appetizers. From chips and guac or simple arroz, to heftier empanadas and Latin-style beef skewers, throw in some staple arepas and chorizos and this menu has what you need. The croquetas – latin-style deep fried rice balls – were delectably smooth and cheesy. Paired well with a spicy chipotle aioli, this is worth an order for the table with any crowd. The chorizos are abundantly flavoured with paprika and cilantro and accompanied by fluffy arepas waiting to soak up the dripping juices. Don’t get carried away, there’s “More” to come.
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With few options, the “More” portion of the menu manages to cover a lot of ground, perhaps most notably the “group occasion” space with the adobo pork; a whole side of pig with trimmings for you and at least seven friends on 48 hours notice. On our night, she went with the chaufo while he had the bandeja. While everything was pleasing, including the surprise of plantain accompanying the seared pork in the bandeja, her chaufo stood head and shoulders above. An incredible mix of spices with an Asian accent of Thai chillis, the duck confit atop a mountain of fried rice is unforgettable. And noticeably so – at least three of these went by our table aside from our own.
Similar to the culture in which its essence is derived, Valdez delivers a colourful and passionate experience loaded with sex appeal. A must-try for every young professional looking to dine in the pulse of Toronto’s downtown.
Her rating
For a business meeting: 6/10 – Volume levels are quick to rise at Valdez. Bring your colleagues for good time (the food quality makes it worth it), but leave the tie at the office.
With a group: 9/10 – This is THE place to live la vida loca with your faves. The menu is perfect for sharing and the vibe perfect for any celebration. Hit the rooftop patio before or after a meal to enjoy the full experience Valdez has to offer.
On a date: 7/10 – Outstanding food quality is harmonized with an energetic atmosphere. This destination might only be the start of the fun.
His rating
For a business meeting: 5/10 – Valdez is a party, with no place for business. There are distractions all around – a place to mix and mingle, not focus.
With a group: 9/10 – Hands down the best way to experience this new gem. Order one of everything and share it all around. It’s what I felt like doing with only two of us, so save yourself the stomach ache.
On a date: 8/10 – Lots of fun, great food, great drinks. You will have a good time here and the bustling, powerful atmosphere will spur conversation.
Her last word:
Barriga llena, corazon contento – I left with a full belly and a happy heart.
His last word:
Chaufo, chaufo, chaufo!
Photos courtesy Valdez