Enoteca Sociale

By Annabelle Goodman –

My son Bob was coming from Chicago en route to a photography course in Newfoundland. I promised him a fine dinner. Enoteca Sociale is on every list for ‘must dining’ in Toronto. The outdoor patio is lovely. The décor is welcoming. You come to this great dining spot for two other reasons. The food is absolutely divine and the service is impeccable. The menu is the best of Italian cuisine and prepared with loving hands.

Don’t expect to find pizza or spaghetti with meatballs. This is classic Italian, fine cuisine. All the servers are dressed in black and are skillful at their trade. You are well looked after. Consuela greeted us at the door with the most beautiful smile. She also thanked us for coming as we left. This place knows how to make the patrons feel special.

Greg was our funny delightful server. Greg was well versed on the wines and the food. This makes such a difference. He helped us to decide in each category and then kept returning to make sure we were satisfied. Bob has just returned from a trip through Tuscany. I was recently in Florence. We know what good Italian food tastes like. This was the best.

Bob started with Grilled Octopus,Fava Beans, New Potato and Chili Pepper ($12.00) He was licking his lips after one bite and was excited with his tasty choice. I was equally delighted with the Cucumber, Radish, Arugula, Radicchio & Herb Salad with a tasty mustard vinaigrette.($9.00) The dill and cucumber were so pleasant to the palate. The greens were fresh and crisp. The appetizers were just the right size to whet the appetite for further dining. There is variety on the menu and the menu changes.

Bob enjoyed the House Made Ravioli, Ricotta, Mascarpone, Ramp Pesto & brown butter crumbs,($16.00) I tasted his dish and we both agreed it was magic. The flavors burst on the palate. What a winner.

I thought the House Made Casercecce Peperonata, Caper Berry & Pecorino was the greatest.($13.00) I asked for more red chili peppers just in case. I didn’t need to add anything to a perfectly spiced delicious dish. There are many pasta choices. We considered the Priz Fixe Menu but opted to make our own choices.

Vegetarians will be satisfied with the Chickpea Fritters, Lentils, and Farro & Mushrooms. ($15.00) I’m coming back for that.

Lake Huron White Fish, is served with cipollini agrodolce, dandelion greens & cucumber giardiniera.($16.00) Garum & Red Wine Marinated Ontario Flank Steak is marinated and served with caramelized brussel sprouts,($18.00)

We were so happily satiated but decided to share a Dolci. Bob’s choice was the Cioccolato Doppio Semifreddo.($8.00) Greg suggested it as a light refreshing desert. So right.

Each menu selection comes with a wine suggestion. We followed those suggestions and we were so pleased with some (new to us) beautifully flavored wine.

It was great to see my son. We both love fine food. We shared a new experience in the best possible way. It is easy to see why there were so many people dining at an early hour. You must have a reservation. This is a quality fine dining experience.

The restaurant is also noted for their exquisite cheeses that are prepared and housed in the Cheese Cave. The cheeses are stored at a humidity controlled atmosphere so that they can be served in their optimal state. Cheeses are paired with carefully selected accompaniments.