Review of Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie

Annabelle Goodman –

The Distillery District speaks to me of a past history in Toronto with a modern update. Cluny Bistro brings the charm and excitement of an authentic Parisian bistro. The mosaic ceilings, the cases of porcelain pieces, the enormous bread counter and the oyster bar make for a seductive ambiance. I love Sunday brunch. Plan an early visit while there is calm and space. I love to watch all the people coming into this very popular restaurant. By the time we left it was bustling but never too noisy. Guaranteed you will be greeted at the door by several attractive warm charming receptionists. Make sure you check out the boulangerie at the entrance before or after your dining experience. The service is magical. On this occasion my friend and I were so well treated by Fabian. He was patient. He was efficient and he made sure that everything was to our liking. This is a love affair I have with Cluny. This was my second visit and both were magical perfection. Don’t even think of coming without a reservation.

Perhaps the Mimosa created the mood. Several choices of fresh juice are offered with the champagne. What a great start! The enormous bread table is covered with a variety of types of bread baked in house. The Olive Bread is exquisite. It has a hint of jalapeno and is totally immersed with olives. Several other breads were presented in the basket. Bread may be purchased at the Boulangerie at the entrance. Fantastic bread and a superb Mimosa and we were already happy campers.

We shared the Stewed Stone Fruit Parfait. I wish I had a picture and not just words to describe this creation. My dining companion and I were fighting over the last drop. It was served in a large mason jar. Light frothy Greek yogurt was at the bottom of the jar. It was covered with a citrus fruit puree of several fruits. It was smooth, tasty and so delicious. Baked granola pieces were on the side.

My friend ordered 3 Fried Eggs that came with a most generous portion of double baked bacon and the thinnest super French fries with a side of aioli. Perfection on a dish! I tried a different omelette on this second visit. The 3 Cheese Omelette was the best I have ever tasted. It was light and fluffy and stuffed with melted wonders of Cheddar, Brie and Gruyere. What a medley of flavors! I could hardly finish the side salad of large romaine leaves topped with the house dressing.

The Cluny Bacon Double Cheese Burger was being enjoyed at the next table. Organic beef, double smoked bacon and smoked Cheddar added to the greatness. I wonder if the guests were able to eat all their frites as well as the burger?

The Grilled Chicken & Marrakesh Carrot Salad is a combination of chickpeas, dates, cilantro, pistachios, feta, lime, carrots and chicken. Baked Vanilla and Chocolate French Toast comes with macerated fruit and Chantilly cream. I have already decided for my next visit to enjoy the Seafood Seashore Lunch with whitefish, shrimp and frites.

I love the ambiance. The service is always superb. Everyone is treated like a special guest. The food is absolutely divine. The portions are generous. Thank you General Manager, Jean-Valery Lacasse, for chatting with us and telling us all about this favorite place. After dining on all the exquisite food we stepped out in the sunshine and browsed in the boutique stores of the Distillery. Can’t wait to return!