The newest venture for Splendido owners David Lee and Yannick Bigourdan, in partnership with restaurateur Franco Prevedello, is Noto Bene (180 Queen Street W). Set to open mid July, it's sure to be a snazzy venture. Considering those involved, the design by KPMB, and the Canada Life building location, (in close proximity to the Four Season's Centre), the new place will no doubt attract Toronto's elite with its Canadian cuisine.

With over 20 outlets in the city, the Japanese Ichiban (Yonge and St. Clair) franchise has been around since 1983. By summer's end, expect their newest outpost to open at Yonge and St. Clair. Anticipate an extensive menu with the standard selection of tempura, udon, and maki. Prices are a bit more uptown than Bloor Street, but they have their own point collecting system. Who knew? Earn 5% of your purchase towards your next meal.

One of the newer and better upscale Indian restaurants in the city, Amaya, is set to expand from their Bayview restaurant and take out locations to add a new place at Yonge and Lawrence. Titled Bread Bar (3305 Yonge Street), there is a lot riding on that naan. The menu is based on the ever present tapas style of dishes, serving smaller portions which allow you to graze. Expect interesting takes on Indian cuisine like lobster naan and sag paneer pizza.

If you take a stroll around the area west of 'Queen West,' you'll notice that there's getting to be a lot of nightlife scenery to chew on. The Painted Lady (218 Ossington Avenue) and Knight & Gale (1275 Queen Street W) are deep in construction mode. Check back for more info.