Terraza is my favourite dining spot in Downtown Toronto

Annabelle Goodman —

Terraza is my favourite dining spot in town. Frankie Lasagne (real name) is the chef/owner. He wants you to feel as if you are in his home. The fireplace is going. The atmosphere is low key but most attractive. Candles on the table give an extra warm glow. I couldn’t wait to return to see the new floors in the kitchen. The place had been closed for a few months and I would drive by and have withdrawal pains to see it closed.

Terraza                    372  Harbord Street                 647 343 3283

On this evening we even had the good fortune to meet Frankie’s mother. She looks like a teenager and I assumed she was visiting a boyfriend working in the kitchen. Frankie was out playing hockey (I forgive him).The two young men working as chefs did an admirable job. Dinner was spectacular. Thanks also to our delightful server, Joele, who brought such warmth and friendliness to our dining experience.  My friend and I discovered Terraza many months ago and couldn’t wait to return for another gourmet feed. I love everything about this place and am already planning a return visit.

Terraza 372 Harbord Street 647 343 3283

I can now say I just ate the best Pizza in town. The whole wheat crust was thin and crispy just the way I like it. The Vegetarian Pizza ($18.00) was a great choice. Plenty pieces of grilled eggplant, grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions and goat cheese made this a spectacular offering. You can even add other toppings for a minimal cost. It was great. On our last visit we salivated watching a young couple trying to finish 2 pizzas. We told them after we were willing to buy a piece or two because it looked so great. We both knew before we even went on this evening that pizza was to be our choice.

We decided to share a pizza (perfect size for sharing) and have 2 salads as well. Great choice. The Arugula Salad with pear, walnuts, parmesan, oil and vinegar dressing was a healthy delicious salad. The portions are very generous. I love the large white bowls for the salad. ($12.00) The Winter Salad was even better. Mixed greens, sautéed beets and squash were combined with goat cheese and served with a citrus dressing. ($12.00) It was outstanding.

I always like to observe what others are eating. Pasta seems to be a standard option from the menu. It is served in large white bowls and looks so inviting. (For my next visit) Spinach Pesto Farfalle is prepared in a creamy spinach pesto sauce and topped with walnuts and pancetta. ($16.00) Shrimp Linguini offers sautéed shrimp and garlic in a tomato sauce. ($16.00) (Maybe I will choose that next time) Mushroom Penne is prepared with a garlic white cream sauce. ($16.00)

On my past few visits I have enjoyed the Grilled Salmon brushed with garlic oil. ($21.00) My friend had ordered the Grilled Lamb Chops. ($25.00) If it is served here you know it is delicious. Last evening several diners were delving into hamburgers. Fat Lip Hamburger ($15.00) is served with lettuce, tomato, pickles, hot peppers and bean salad or cucumber and tomato salad. Lipstick Burger is served without a bun and your choice of Fat Lip toppings. ($14.00)

There is a friendly atmosphere. I never have been here without speaking to at least one other diner. The service is ‘down home’ friendly and efficient. The food is amazing. Wait until you see the tiny kitchen where all the miracles are performed. LOVE IT!