chefspencil: May 2024

Friday, May 31, 2024

The Most Affordable Michelin Restaurants in Toronto

Toronto has welcomed the Michelin Guide two years ago and its rather long wait was rewarded with 23 Michelin-starred restaurants.

But fine dining doesn’t come cheap in Canada’s largest metropolis: Toronto ranked among the world’s 20 most expensive cities for fine dining in a recent analysis published earlier this year by our team. The median price to dine out at one of Toronto’s Michelin restaurants is $290 CAD (roughly $215 USD), on par with Chicago but more expensive than London, Seoul, Rome, and Berlin. It’s also almost twice as expensive as dining out at Michelin restaurants in Vancouver ($155 CAD), the other Canadian city covered by the Michelin Guide.

However, you can still find amazing and affordable Michelin restaurants in Toronto that won’t break the bank. Let’s begin

1. Quetzal

Tasting menu: CAD $125

Address: 419 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 1T1, Canada

Dry aged Rougié Duck breast, Clearwater Farm green garlic, mole verde at Quetzal in Toronto — Photo credit: @quetzaltoronto

Quetzal is a high-end Mexican restaurant in Toronto’s Little Italy where Chefs Grant van Gameren and Julio Guajardo craft dishes that highlight traditional Mexican flavors using a wood-fired grill. The centerpiece of the dining room is a 28-foot wood fire, where local produce, seafood, and meat are expertly grilled and served on beautiful earthenware plates.

Quetzal’s menu features in-house nixtamalised tortillas, memelas, empanadas, and unique desserts like epazote raspados and spiced Mexican chocolate tres leches. The wine list is international, complemented by a robust selection of mezcal, tequila, and inventive house cocktails.

The vibrant, open-kitchen layout adds to the lively atmosphere. Dinner options include a curated menu at CAD 125 or a selection from the a la carte menu with costs typically averaging at $120 per person.

2. Osteria Giulia

Tasting menu: CAD $120

Address: 134 Avenue Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 2H6, Canada

Seafood at Osteria Giulia — Photo credit: @osteriagiulia

Found in Yorkville, Osteria Giulia brings the flavors of coastal Italy to Toronto under the expert guidance of Chef Rob Rossi. The menu showcases seafood-centric Ligurian dishes such as crudo di pesce, handmade pastas, and roasted fish.

The atmosphere at Osteria Giulia is elegant yet relaxed, with an emphasis on warm hospitality and attention to detail. Diners can expect a thoughtfully curated wine list that complements the fresh, vibrant flavors of the cuisine. The a la carte menu features a variety of courses offering a memorable journey through Ligurian culinary traditions. The average cost of a three-course dinner at Osteria Giulia is $120 per person.

3. Restaurant 20 Victoria

Tasting menu: CAD $96

Address: 20 Victoria St, Toronto, ON M5C 2A1, Canada

Dish at Restaurant 20 Victoria in Toronto — Photo credit: @twentyvictoria

Restaurant 20 Victoria brings guests an intimate dining experience curated by Chef Jonathan Williams. The restaurant focuses on a seasonal tasting menu that highlights local, sustainable ingredients, reflecting a modern Canadian culinary philosophy.

The minimalist, contemporary setting enhances the dining experience, allowing the dishes to shine. The seven-course tasting menu, priced at $175, changes regularly to feature the best available produce, meat, and seafood. The restaurant also offers a four-course menu during weekdays at an affordable $96. Wine pairings are thoughtfully selected to complement the evolving flavors of the menu.

4. Edulis

Tasting menu: CAD $200

Address: 169 Niagara St, Toronto, ON M5V 1C9, Canada

Dish at Edulis in Toronto — Photo credit: @edulisrestaurant

Edulis is a small and charming restaurant in Toronto’s King West neighborhood, celebrated for its dedication to foraged ingredients and seafood. Co-chefs Michael Caballo and Tobey Nemeth craft a menu that emphasizes the purity and simplicity of natural flavors, often incorporating wild and seasonal components.

The rustic, intimate ambiance of Edulis is perfect for a relaxed yet refined dining experience. The multi-course set menu is priced at $200 and emphasizes Spanish cooking traditions with seafood, vegetables, and other seasonal treasures.

5. Don Alfonso 1890

Tasting menu: CAD $220

Address: 1 Harbour Square 38th Floor, Toronto, ON M5J 1A6, Canada

Dish at Don Alfonso 1890 — Photo credit: donalfonsoto

Situated in the downtown core, Don Alfonso 1890 brings the heritage of Italian fine dining to Toronto. Chef Ernesto Iaccarino, from a Michelin-starred restaurant in Italy, offers a sophisticated menu featuring contemporary Mediterranean cuisine.

The grand, opulent setting of Don Alfonso 1890 provides a stunning backdrop for the multi-course tasting menu, which includes signature dishes like the Lobster Alla Diavola and Eggplant Millefeuille. The main tasting menu is priced at $220, providing a lavish journey through Italian culinary excellence. The restaurant also offers an a la carte menu, as well as an extensive wine list and expert pairings.

Cheapest Michelin Restaurants In Toronto (Map)

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The Most Affordable Michelin Restaurants in Vancouver B.C.

Vancouver, B.C., is world-famous for many things: its stunningly picturesque setting nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore Mountains, one of the highest standards of living in the world, and its cosmopolitan vibe and vibrant food scene.

It’s also well known for being one of the most expensive cities in Canada, with jaw-dropping real estate prices, so it was quite surprising to see Vancouver ranking as one of the world’s most affordable cities for fine dining.

The median price for dining out at one of Vancouver’s nine Michelin restaurants was just $155 CAD, which is substantially more affordable than other global fine dining destinations like San Francisco ($263 USD), Miami ($257 USD), or even Toronto ($295 CAD), the other Canadian city covered by the Michelin Guide.

This makes the city very attractive for gourmet enthusiasts seeking high-quality, Michelin-rated cuisine without the high prices. Now let’s take a look at the most affordable five Michelin restaurants in Vancouver B.C.

1. Barbara

Most affordable tasting menu: $80

Address: 305 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 0J3, Canada

Vichyssoise, leeks, shallot mignonette — hoto credit: @barbararestaurant

Located in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood, Barbara offers an intimate dining experience led by Chef Patrick Hennessy. The cuisine is innovative and seasonal, reflecting Hennessy’s commitment to local ingredients and his background in fine dining. Signature dishes include Ancient Grain Risotto, Arctic Char, and Lamb Schnitzel.

The restaurant features a cozy, minimalist atmosphere that enhances the focus on the food. Dinner here typically ranges from $80 to $120 per person and includes three to four courses.

2. St. Lawrence

Tasting menu: $125

Address: 269 Powell St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1G3, Canada

Homard à la Parisienne — Photo credit: @stlawrencerestaurant

In the heart of Vancouver’s Railtown district, St. Lawrence brings a touch of Quebec to the West Coast. Celebrated as one of Canada’s top dining destinations, St. Lawrence was awarded One Star by the Michelin Guide in 2022 and received numerous accolades, including Restaurant of the Year by Vancouver Magazine.

Chef and owner J.C. Poirier’s French-Canadian cuisine is rich and hearty, featuring classic dishes like tourtière and cassoulet. The French spirits and wine list perfectly complement Chef Poirier’s rustic haute country cooking.

St. Lawrence highlights time-honored traditions in a refined yet welcoming space, where food, drink, and atmosphere come together to create a uniquely immersive dining experience. The main menu consists of four courses and is priced at $125 plus tax and gratuity.

3. AnnaLena

Tasting menu: $148

Address: 1809 W 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 5B8, Canada

aged duck breast or halibut cheek corn panisse, roast plum jus, black truffle charred corn — Photo credit: @annalenayvr

Annalena, a tasting menu restaurant situated in Kitsilano, is owned by Chef Michael Robbins. Operating since 2015, AnnaLena was named one of En Route’s Top 10 New Restaurants in its opening year and consistently ranks among Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants.

In June 2020, the restaurant transitioned to exclusively offering a multi-course tasting menu featuring seasonal local farms and suppliers, accompanied by wine pairings and cocktails.

The relaxed yet chic atmosphere makes it perfect for both casual and special occasions. The tasting menu is priced at $148, and consists of three courses. Dishes change based on the seasons and products available to the kitchen team.

4. Burdock & Co

Tasting menu: $150

Address: 2702 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3E8, Canada

Burrata with figs — Photo credit: @burdockandco

Burdock & Co is the brainchild of Chef Andrea Carlson, whose passion lies in offering charming and eco-conscious cuisine. Known for its farm-to-table approach, the restaurant emphasizes organic and locally sourced ingredients.

The restaurant’s Moon Menu Series, now in its third year, is particularly popular with six distinct seasonal local botanical themes. Dishes include innovative creations such as Braised Burdock Stuffed Morel Mushroom, and Nettle & Ricotta Ravioli. The Moon Menu changes every two months and is priced at $150.

5. Kissa Tanto

Tasting menu: $150

Address: 263 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T8, Canada

Magret Duck Breast BC Chanterelle mushrooms, yuzu kosho jus — Photo credit: @kissatanto

Tucked into the upper story of a charmingly worn building in Chinatown, Kissa Tanto welcomes you to the House of Plenty. Here, Chef Joël Watanabe blends delicate Japanese flavors with the warmth of Italian cooking. Enjoy cool crudo, exotic salads, playful pastas, and rich meats, all paired with drinks like Singapore Slings, fine sake, and cold beer.

The eclectic menu and retro-inspired décor is reminiscent of 1960s Tokyo jazz cafés. The atmosphere invites laughter, storytelling, and the cozy intimacy of great music. Dinner prices average at $150 with a choice between three or four courses.

Cheapest Michelin Restaurants in Vancouver B.C.

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Cheesecake w/ Caramelized Figs

If you love caramel, figs, and cream cheese-heavy cakes, then this is a must-try recipe. I promise you won’t get enough of it. It’s perfect as a summer cake, but also ideal for special occasions.

I chose a coffee-flavored sponge cake for the base of this cheesecake, a creamy cream cheese filling flavored with caramelized figs, and topped with another layer of amazing caramelized fresh figs.

Enjoy!

Cheesecake w/ Caramelized Figs

A stunning and incredibly delicious cheesecake with a coffee-flavored sponge base, featuring a super creamy cream cheese mousse topped with fresh caramelized figs.

Course Dessert

Cuisine International

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 50

Servings servings

Author Paula

Ingredients

For the batter:

1 egg
50 g flour
30 g cocoa
50 g sugar
50 g butter
50 ml coffee
1/2 tsp baking soda

For the caramelized figs:

100 g sugar
2 tbsp water
200 g figs

For the cheese mousse:

50 g caramelized figs
200 g cream cheese
5 g gelatin
2 tbsp water
300 ml whipping cream
50 g powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Metric – US Customary

Instructions

For the batter:

Simply place all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
Prepare a small 16 cm/6-inch cake pan. Line the pan with parchment paper and grease the sides well with butter then sprinkle with flour. Put the mixture in the pan and level. Bake for 25-30 minutes until it passes the toothpick test. Place on a rack to cool.

For the caramelized figs:

Place the sugar and water in a heavy-bottomed pan. Bring to the boil and continue boiling until it turns into caramel. Then add the diced figs. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the caramel softens and the figs are well coated.

For the cheese mousse:

Hydrate the gelatin in cold water. Heat the cream cheese slightly, then add the gelatin and stir well. Add the vanilla extract.
Mix the whipping cream and the vanilla sugar until firm. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese.
Put the cake back in the pan in which it was baked. If it has sunk too much, cut off the top to level it. Place 3/4 of the caramelized figs on top. On top of the figs, pour half of the cheese mousse and the remaining figs. Cover with the remaining mousse and place in the refrigerator until the next day.
Decorate with caramel and fresh figs. It’s a real treat!

Notes

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Thursday, May 30, 2024

Greek Okra Strew in Tomato Sauce (Bamies Latheres)

This is a Greek okra stew recipe known locally as bamies latheres. It’s a traditional dish cooked in a rich tomato and olive oil-based sauce.

It’s easy to make and vegan friendly, though if you don’t mind a bit of cheese, it goes great with a side of feta. Enjoy!

Greek Okra Strew in Tomato Sauce (Bamies Latheres)

A traditional Greek okra stew made with a delicious tomato and olive oil-based sauce.

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Greek

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings servings

Author Giorgos Tsoulis