2: Karuchie, Toronto

An endearing little bistro spot aimed at bringing a stylized sort of downtown dining to College and Ossington. Executive Chef Chris Thorn offers a more creative take on continental fare than many of the higher profile local restaurants as well as upscale bistro fare based on traditional techniques (inspired by his penchant for Japanese culture and design). The kitchen doesn't have to cook to someone's defined notion of textbook cooking. Karuchie goes its own way. - B.J. 924 College Street, Toronto, ON. 416-850-1729.
101 Essential Restaurants: Complete Guide

1: Colborne Lane, Toronto

If you think the Toronto fine-dining world has gone uniform and slackened in its taste for diversity it’s time to give Colborne Lane a try. The extravagance of Master Chef Claudio Aprile’s cuisine and attitude imbued the lush restaurant at every turn from the plating to the décor. Previously heading Senses as executive chef, Aprile has the resumé to back his genius. Aprile’s experience should convince you to attend, and, as soon as you try his food, you will have a new reason to visit Colborne Lane. Refurbished refrigerator coil art, antique mirrors, fourteen seat communal tales, dark wood, original brick and pumping seventies’ rock beats fill the space and, at times, may tend to overwhelm the customer looking for a cozy nook. The cuisine is fraught with the same amount of detail and work as the front of the house. Take for instance the lobster bisque that comes to your table in pieces. Your server then adds the bisque to a bowl of fresh cooked lobster dumplings, mussels, oxalis leaves and tofu emitting an aroma to die for right under your very nose. An experience not to be missed, when you’re looking for some good food and a lot of action, pay Colborne Lane a visit. –J.T. 45 Colborne St., Toronto, ON. 416-368-9009.
101 Essential Restaurants: Complete Guide