The Cantine

138 Avenue Road

Toronto, Ontario

The restaurant is classified as Italian, but I think they have that mixed up. The place is definitely leaning on the Canadian cuisine side, with a Euro flare including pizza's and pasta's on the menu. But that doesn't mean this place isn't delicious.

I have been there twice and have been seriously impressed both times. The helpings are plentiful while still looking simple and classy on the plate, the menu has a great choice of dishes and it's not even that expensive considering this restaurant is situated in the very posh, Yorkville area right across from Avenue Road's Ferrari dealership.

I started with the herbed goat's cheese salad which was wonderfully light. To follow I went with their mahi mahi, paired perfectly with a lemon-caper sauce and lightly scented rice. My partner went with their soup of the day, being potato and leek. Generally I find this type of soup to be bland no matter who makes it, but The Cantine did this one spot on. Light, not too creamy and very tasty. Following that, my partner had the veal stiploin which was awesome! Partnered with a porcini mushroom sauce, who could ask for more? Dessert was also a winner.

Their service was totally classy, but not pretentious and impeccably polite. The owner is also a friendly gentleman who likes to ensure his customers are satisfied. To top it off, the decor is also very calm, quiet and comfortable. I will certainly be going again to try other dishes and enjoy the overall pleasant atmosphere.