Nirvana, Toronto

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  • Nirvana

    Review by Lindsay Sheehan
    College Street being what it is—a multifarious lineup of eateries and bars— has become somewhat segregated by Bathurst street, which flanks the region between cheap and chic. Situated to the University of Toronto, the east resounds with the phenomenal student-effect, where food and drink can be had at no great cost, lest the pupils forgo learned books in tribute/sacrifice to the god of getting one’s drink on.

    Idolatry aside, if the name is any indication of its purpose, Nirvana extinguishes the ephemeral flame of desire and suffering (and perhaps even individual consciousness) in its new abode on College.

    Once KOS, then Picadilly, the space has diverged entirely from the previous greasy spoon theme. Emulating the Red Room to a certain degree, but sleeker and more refined, Nirvana harmonizes chill ambiance and diverse eats with thrift prices. The interior is a darkened den; a pastiche of garage sale thrown-togetherness that is well arranged into booths, thick wooden slabs with adjoining pews, and single table seating, ranging from black to chocolate to natural contrasts.

    Riddled with Buddhist and Hindu iconography, the air is filled with electronic soul’s melodic down-tempos. The tabletops are graced by white daisies floating in watery cups. The ceiling holds a motley of chandeliers, modern and classic, and the large room is filled with soft lighting that translates hues of blue, red, and orange.
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    4 Reader Reviews

    1. Nolan Sarandou's Review :: August 11, 2008
    Visiting from out of town and found Nirvana by accident, or should I say by luck. With outstanding food, friendly staff, and an amazing atmosphere; I would definately recommend Nirvana to anyone that happens upon the area.

    Nolan Sarandou's Rating: 4 Stars
    2. Kitty's Review :: May 18, 2008
    Nirvana ROCKS! Good music, good vibe, good service, good food... You can always get a good spot... and they have oysters, not to mention oysters shooters for 4.50 (one of the only places I think) Serious value for your money!!

    Kitty's Rating: 4 Stars
    3. Bruce & Simone's Review :: January 20, 2008
    We went there for the first time last night for dinner, and it exceeded our expectations! The vibe was cozy and warm, service was prompt and friendly (even though it was busy, our server took the time to explain items on the menu for us and our drinks came right away) and the food was delicious (we had the pad thai and the lemongrass chicken). The prices were the clincher, so so cheap! They also have a good wine and scotch list, though we didn't have any this time. We will definitely be coming back.

    Bruce & Simone's Rating: 4 Stars
    4. TJ's Review :: January 18, 2008
    I love the atmosphere at Nirvana. The owners obviously spared no expense creating a really unique space. I really wanted to make this place my new brunch/dinner go-to, but after four visits, I'm disappointed. The service could really use a shake-up. Each time we were there, there was a problem, from forgetting to bring part of the order (then lying and saying it wasn't included), to over-charging for items, to a very long wait. The value isn't really there either. Prices are cheap, but portions are teeny-tiny. SO much potential, but you can get much better brunch at Graffiti's (Sunday) and much better Asian food just about anywhere.

    TJ's Rating: 2 Stars
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    Nirvana

    Address

    434 College Street, Toronto, ON

    Phone

    416-927-8885

    Area

    College Street

    Cuisine

    Eclectic

    Venue

    Restaurant, Lounge

    Hours

    Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

    Price

    $$ (Affordable)

    Payment

    Cash only
    Restaurant

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