Rush Hour

Annabelle Goodman —

A hidden gem of gourmet perfection! That says it all. No need for me to exclaim further. You owe it to yourself to discover this wondrous little spot. I suspect that many of the clients are neighbors in the area. It is on Dufferin St north of Dupont in a residential area. There is parking at the side and on the street. The outdoor patio is lovely. The décor is simple and appealing.

1438A Dufferin St – 416 533 4687

This is a family run business. I loved the way I was greeted by name at the door. The owners don’t know me but were so attentive to their reservations and to the clients. We were warmly received and attended to all evening. I was brought a sample of wine and found it to be a little light. No problem. The owner stated that he knew exactly what I wanted. He returned with a more robust satisfying wine. It was wonderful and the prices were more than fair.

I knew the portions were extremely generous so we didn’t bother with an appetizer. We did indulge in that superior quality bread with the side dish of hummus. A fine quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar were on each table. Grilled Calamari is tossed with olive oil, garlic, roasted red peppers, capers, olives, herbs and flavored with a dash of balsamic reduction. The House Salad offers a variety of fresh garden vegetables. There are many tempting options on the menu.

I had dined here on one other occasion and marveled at the Sesame Seed Seared Ahi Tuna. It is my favorite food and is always on the menu. Two perfectly prepared good sized portions were artistically placed on a bed of broccoli, roasted potatoes and carrots. My first impression was I would have enough for lunch the next day. When something is that good you devour it on sight. The wasabi aioli truly enhanced this wondrous dish. Every bite of tuna was better than the next. The vegetables were prepared to perfection. I was in heaven. Big Chili Prawns are grilled and served with a variety of vegetables. Grilled Salmon is marinated in soya orange reduction. Every dish is masterfully prepared and artfully presented.

My dining partner ordered the Australian Rack of Lamb flavored with mint. It was served with a risotto or vegetables. When food is this good you want to savor every bite and make it last.

I couldn’t help but notice the Steak delivered to the next table. All steaks are aged in house for 21 days.  There are several choices of steak on the menu. Picanha Steak is a grilled Brazilian cut. The portions are very generous. This is a masterful chef.

There were many Pasta dishes listed on the menu. Seafood Penne is prepared with a mélange of mixed seafood in a creamy mascarpone sauce. All pastas are fresh. The Risotto is carnarolli from Northern Italy. Penne a la Vodka includes crunchy green peas, rose sauce and a splash of Russian vodka. I will go back and give it a try.

We looked at the Desert menu but were unable to even think about indulging. Save some room, (if you can) The prices are more than fair. The gourmet food is a delight and the presentation enhances the flavor even more. This is an outstanding restaurant.