Cantine Bistro and Bar

By Annabelle Goodman –

138 Avenue Rd
416 923 4822

 

Nine women were celebrating a birthday. It is difficult to find a place that has sufficient room and provides a festive atmosphere. Fortunately we all agreed that Cantine would look after all our needs. We even asked for the large table at the back by the wall. Everything was set up for our arrival. Even water jugs were placed on the table.

This is a busy spot all year. At lunch and dinner time the tables are packed. Joey Bersani has the perfect formula. He provides a pleasant atmosphere and fantastic food. The menu offers so many choices in every category. He has many regular clients. It is guaranteed you will have gourmet food and the service will be welcoming and efficient. It never got too noisy and hopefully we also didn’t interfere with anyone else’s lunch.

I always like to dine at the back of the restaurant. The front area features comfy lounge chairs that are great for a drink and lighter fare. Wherever you choose to sit you will be treated as a favored guest. Do make a reservation.

It seems we were in a Salad mood. The Salads are always a generous portion and attractively presented.

Blue Cheese, Pear and Arugula is served with toasted walnuts with a house vinaigrette.($10.95)

Salad Nicoise is a house specialty. Green beans, tomato, egg, artichoke and mixed greens are topped with tuna and flavored with a delicious vinaigrette.($11.95)

I usually order my favorite without even looking at the menu. The Grilled Tuna Salad is so delicious. Top grade tuna is perfectly grilled and laced over a fresh bed of greens. The wasabi drizzle is such a bonus. I love this dish.($14.95)

Several of the women opted for the Grilled Chicken Salad with a poached pear, tomatoes and mixed greens. ($14.95)

This is one of the few restaurants that I will order an Omelette. They know how to perfectly prepare the dish. Roasted Tomatoes with Fresh Basil and Bocconcini is my favorite. Roasted Red Pepper, Chicken and Sauteed Onion is another of the many choices. All omelettes are $11.95.

One of our guests enjoyed a plate of Pan Seared Calves Liver.($14.95) Caramelized onions, crispy bacon and mashed potatoes made this a satisfying filling choice.

I have also enjoyed Pasta dishes on many occasions. I marvel at the choices on the menu.

The Chocolate Torte was mouth watering good. It was ecstasy in your mouth. We shared a few orders of this perfect dessert topped with ice cream. They also make the best Biscotti in town. It was huge and we all managed to share one.

I hope the birthday girl enjoyed the event. We all had such a great time. Cantine offers superb food, a friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices. That says it all.