Terrazza

Annabelle Goodman —

Terrazza is my favorite restaurant in town. I immediately relax and feel welcomed when I arrive. I look at the charming décor and always think back to what this place used to be. The large windows in front were the doors that swung open for the car repair place of the past. In the summer those same doors (now windows) are opened to the charming terrazza or patio. Inside I like to sit by the warm fire. I noticed several people sitting at the bar on this occasion. You can’t help but see the small kitchen. You practically walk into it when you arrive. Two masterful chefs prepare that delicious food from that tiny space. Wondrous dishes appear and I don’t know how they do it. My hat is off to the proprietor Frankie Lasagna who made it all happen. He had a dream and pursued it. This is definitely a neighborhood favorite. It is always filled but never too noisy. As well as the ambiance and the best servers in town, it is the food that brings me back.
 

372 Harbord St – 647 343 3283

 
The Salads are always a very generous portion and delicious. The Winter Salad has been enjoyed on several occasions. Mixed greens, sautéed beets and squash are topped with goat cheese and a citrus dressing. There is enough to share with several people. The Arugula Salad offers fresh crisp arugula with pear, walnuts, parmesan, oil and vinegar dressing.
 
Pasta was calling out to me on this occasion and the chef does it so well. I was delighted with the gluten free pasta. I enjoyed the rest of the ingredients from the Shrimp Linguine dish. The shrimp were plentiful. Everyone was big, tender and so flavorful. The creamy tomato sauce was perfect. I ate it all with great gusto. Every dish is served with a smile. It all makes for a delightful evening. My friend enjoyed her Bolognese Penne with a delicious meat sauce. Tomato Pesto is prepared with farfalle, fresh tomatoes, sautéed with garlic and spinach pesto. There are many pasta choices and I have never had a miss.
 
On several occasions I have enjoyed the Grilled Salmon that is brushed with garlic oil. Friends and family have raved about the Grilled Ontario Lamb Chops. The main dishes are served with a choice of two sides, basmati rice, roasted potatoes, house salad, vegetable medley, asparagus or broccolini. Grilled Steak and Grilled Chicken are other options.
 
On many occasions I have watched the large Burgers being delivered to the table. They are served on an onion bun with roasted potatoes and a choice of salad. The Fat Lip Burger has lettuce, tomato, pickles, hot peppers, red onion, ketchup, mustard, house BBQ sauce and garlic mayo. No wonder they are so popular. Six different types of burgers are offered on the menu
 
I still maintain the best Pizza in town is prepared here. The crust is thin. The toppings are plentiful. All pizzas and calzones are made with tomato sauce and mozzarella. Whole wheat dough is available on request. The Vegetarian Pizza is my favorite with grilled eggplant, grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions and goat cheese.
 
I have dined here often. I am never disappointed. I like everything about Terrazza including that wonderful Chocolate Cake. Save room.