Serra

Annabelle Goodman —

I had just seen two films at the Toronto International Film Festival. It was way after dinner time and I had only eaten briefly much earlier in the day. My friend and I were starving. Serra was on our way home and seemed very inviting. It has been years since I was there but recall numerous lunches and dinners in the past. The restaurant is an Annex favorite.

378 Bloor St W – 416 922 6999

The bread comes with a dish of the most delicious red pepper hummus. A great way to stop the hunger while waiting for the main course. We could have ordered a Caesar Salad or Caprese Salad but it was later than my usual dining hour so decided to stick with an entrée. We did comment on the inviting number of appetizers available.

My friend enjoyed the Veal Marsala. Thin slices of prime veal were sautéed in a Marsala sauce. It was tender and very flavorful. The veggies were outstanding. There was quite a variety and each one was done to perfection. Hurray for vegetables that are not overcooked, Asparagus, green beans, broccoli, roasted potatoes and fennel were artfully placed on the plate and quickly devoured with pleasure.

My Grilled Salmon was the best. The citrus sauce was flavorful. The vegetables are always superb. This was the perfect healthy food I was craving at the end of a long day.

In the past I have often ordered the Pasta. My favorite is Fettuccini Shrimp. Black tiger shrimp and salmon are so delicious with the creamy pesto vodka sauce. The Linguine Pesto is served with chicken, sun dried tomatoes in a light tomato cream sauce. There are several offerings of Risotto. Try the Mushroom Risotto with a variety of mushrooms.

The pizza is prepared with a thin crispy crust. The Vegetarian Pizza is topped with ricotta and mozzarella cheese, and an enormous amount of grilled vegetables. Great!

It was too late to indulge in a dessert. We did salivate watching the guests at the next table devour two large desserts. The portions were enormous. The Carrot Cake and Chocolate Cake looked mighty inviting.

The service was friendly and most efficient. We were delighted our food was presented so quickly. The plating was attractive. We had so many choices. We certainly made the right choice to stop at Serra.