SOTTO SOTTO
Italian

Sotto Sotto's den of intimate rooms offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere for that special night out. The kitchen prides itself for using only the freshest ingredients, cooked in a simple manner. Enjoy a comforting plate of your favourite pasta, or select a delectable dish from the generous menu of expertly prepared south-central Italian specialties, made to order. An impressive list of 5,000 bottles betrays a love of the grape, with first-growth Bordeaux and lush Italian reds.

116 A Avenue Road      (416) 962-0011

SPLENDIDO
Californian/Italian

Splendido is sophisticated fun. So fashionable and so pretty, with its painted flowers and sculptured lights, chefs in painter's hats behind a glass wall splashed with electric colours. This award winner attracts an upbeat, star-studded crowd. The Cal/Ital cooking reaches high aesthetics with new-age toppings on crusty pizzas, or wood-roasted chicken on sourdough bread. There's home-made sausages, juicy jumbo quails, melt-in-your-mouth pastas and risottos. Sensuous food menu and sumptuous portions--All complemented with sexy, sweet pastry creations and a wide-ranging wine list.

88 Harbord Street      (416) 929-7788

ZUCCA
Italian

Personal touches soften the elegant space and add to the relaxed atmosphere where uptown and downtown meet, welcoming an ever-expanding group of devout followers. Remarked for fresh, simple, authentic Italian cooking. Here, every dish is given thoughtful, loving attention. Of note is the vegetable carpaccio, the Cornish hen and, of course, the creme caramel. The well-priced wine list favors Italians, with a few North American and European additions.

2150 Yonge Street      (416) 488-5774

ALLEN'S
American

A tribute to the Irish-American saloons of old New York, with a glow of comfortable tradition. The grand oak bar is noted for serving "every whiskey known to man", with Toronto's most extensive beer list. Changing monthly, the menu concentrates on the freshest ingredients in entirely homemade preparation. Traditional, but sophisticated Irish fare features Kerry lamb, fresh smoked Atlantic salmon, and the noble potato presented in eight different ways. Also famed for Angus steaks, chicken, massive salads, and Canadian hardwood charcoal barbeque.
143 Danforth Avenue      (416) 463-3086

MYTH
Mediterranean

The baffling, bold design will stop you in your tracks; blending a comfortable feel (pool tables, a long friendly bar, sidewalk patio) and sophisticated, high-tech design. Ancient myths are played out with giant shields, the bulks of ships and grand artifacts, in a brilliant colour scheme. Greek haute cuisine combined with avant garde dishes, are prepared with a serious yet imaginative flair. Freshest, finest ingredients are selected daily. The wine list is one of the best in the city. Energy prevails with an upbeat staff that transmits sincere hospitality.

417 Danforth Avenue      (416) 461-8383

CATARACT INN
Continental

A true dining oasis awaits in a tiny hamlet less than an hour's drive from Toronto. Seasonal menus elevate continental cuisine to the current Pacific Rim fusion of cooking, with food arriving in an artful tower of innovative vegetables and succulent glazes. Nightly features, constantly changing, are highlighted by such requested favourites as a generous Rack of Lamb dressed with sweet mustard, rosemary and garlic, or steamed Nova Scotia Hard Shell Lobster with twice-baked potatoes and vegetable bundles.

1498 Cataract Road   Alton (Cataract)
(519) 927-3033

DANIEL'S OF NOBLETON
Eclectic

The perfect spot to settle into a simply tasteful meal fit for a king. Situated in a tiny, picturesque hamlet, Daniel's quaint restaurant is rustic, rural Ontario charm. The eclectic menu takes advantage of the seasonal locally-grown organic produce, as well as game. Every fall, delighted patrons can feast royally on a wild game dinner comprised of succulent pheasant, interestingly prepared caribou, or rare musk-ox with fresh greens. The owner/chef utilizes his inventive culinary skills in creating an ever-changing menu of savoury entrees and appetizers. Boasts an extensive wine menu.

12926 Hwy 27   Nobleton      (905) 859-0060

THE MILLCROFT INN
Continental

Captivating country charm, exquisite cuisine, attentive service and a warm welcome await you in the picturesque Caledon Hills, only 40 minutes northwest of Toronto. The Millcroft Inn is the perfect venue for a glass of wine by the fire, a leisurely lunch on the patio, or a sumptuous dinner in the glassed-in "Pod" with a view of the mill falls. The splendid setting is the perfect complement to the continental epicure. Magnificent grilled entrees-- Beef Tenderloin, Grilled Medallions of Caribou, Breast of Muscovy Duck are presented with panache by a highly professional wait staff.

55 John Street Alton (800) 383-3976

AUBERGE DU POMMIER
French

Exceptionally peaceful "country-in-the-city" atmosphere, perfect for romantic and special occasions. Two restored century-old cottages with fireplaces, wooden-beam ceilings, terrace with a stone fountain and flower-filled garden.The French cuisine moderne is pure poetry. For appetizers try a light mousse of smoked trout, poppy-seed pastry, or crabmeat remoulade. Main courses include fowl, venison, fresh caught fish and seasonal shellfish. Desserts are sybaritic. Attentive service. Substantial, yet reasonable wine list.

4150 Yonge Street      (416) 222-2220

LA RESERVE
Contemporary Italian

A striking modern showplace, boasting a fabulous decor of soaring marble walls, a glossy white piano and romantic dining area with heavy linen-laden tables. Catering to both power lunches and romantic evenings. This sought-after diner's haven delights those who enjoy great dining. The health-conscious Mediterranean menu is full of fresh, natural flavours. One of the best wine lists in the G.T.A.

8432 Leslie Street   Thornhill    (905) 881-0477