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Amy Chung | Last Updated: April 24,2009 10:53:07 am
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Spinning pizza dough, chatter and lots of bustleTerroni always has your mouth watering for more. Their thin-crust pizzas, homemade deserts and classic salads and pastas truly capture the best of southern Italy. A.C |
 AT A GLANCE
Terroni
720 Queen St W, Toronto, ON, Canada
416-504-0320
Italian
Queen West
Venue:
Restaurant
Hours:
Mon. to Sat.: 9:00am - 10:00pm
Price Range:
$$$ (within reach)
Payment:
Master Card, Visa, American Express, Diners Club
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THE BUZZ
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IN THE AREA
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50 Reader Reviews | Traditional & local pizza joint with pizza, calzones, and salads on the menu. This place gets a ton of business from the locals as well as the college kids.
Its good pizza, nothing fancy.
1. Dan Samuelson's Review :: December 28, 2009 Dan Samuelson's Rating: 3 Stars |
I shouldn't even be writing this review since I ate the pizza after work after not eating anything all day. The pizza is thin and crispy, so if you're into that kind of thing, try it out. They're open pretty late which is good to know in case you want to eat something at one in the morning and have nothing in your fridge. I like that they do individual slices because sometimes I can't finish a medium pizza by myself...sometimes
2. Daria's Review :: December 14, 2009 Daria's Rating: 3 Stars |
i'm not sure about a four star, but i've been there twice and i would recommend terroni's to anyone that enjoys good authentic italian cooking, funky surroundings, and excellent service at a reasonable price. (oh, did i say the selection of food and beverages (vino)was more than acceptable.
3. DON/RUTH TOMAC's Review :: November 16, 2009 DON/RUTH TOMAC's Rating: 3 Stars |
I scanned over the reviews above and totally agree with the people who say that the bad service at Terroni makes it an unpleasant experience. Especially since the pizza crust may be thin but the bill is actually pretty thick.
I've been there a few times and the food is nice enough, but the repeated experience of snotty servers acting like they're doing you a favour by seating you then brushing you with their butt cheeks when they walk past (because the seating is so jammed into the space) is less authentic than authentically annoying.
4. Janesse's Review :: November 12, 2009 Janesse's Rating: 1 Stars |
EEEEEEWWWWWWWWW!!!! Worst service (at all locations) of any restaurants in Toronto (including a McDonald's drive-thru). Horrible, horrible service, long (unnecessary) waits, loud, poor food quality, bland, disrespectful wait staff, over-priced, pretentious, CRAPPY!!!! I'm boycotting this place for good.
5. Michelle's Review :: October 18, 2009 Michelle's Rating: 1 Stars |
I think that the owner of this restaurant has forgotten the GRACIOUSNESS and WELCOMING attitude of Calabria of when we welcome people into our kitchen. You LET guests eat what they want, you can lecture, cry, beg and reprimand GUESTS into eating the way that you THINK is the right way to do it, but LET THEM EAT what they want. You mutter under your breath, call them names behind their backs, but you have to have enough RESPECT for your GUESTS to allow them to feel at home. It's time to GROW UP and start having some respect for your GUESTS. Just call it a day and allow yourself to mature and grow because you could be missing out on some beautiful experiences with your wonderful GUESTS if you dont lighten up.
6. Calabrian Mamma's Review :: October 18, 2009 Calabrian Mamma's Rating: Stars |
Good things are worth waiting for!!
It was my first visit to Terroni.... by nature I am a very impatient person but if anything the food arrived incredibly fast and it was awesome. In all honesty I was there for lunch so I don't know how busy Terroni gets at night but I'd wait an hr for any of their dishes. The servers were extremely helpful and friendly without going over the top...reminded me of the restaurant in the movie Dinner Rush.
I am a total food snob, some of my closest friends are well known food critics and i would recommend this eatery to any one of them in a flash! A little bit of attitude, is like a little bit of spice!
GO! there! enjoy yourself ! and leave your bloody watch with your cardiologist!!!
7. Danny McBride's Review :: October 17, 2009 Danny McBride's Rating: 4 Stars |
Went to the Queen street location last Sunday with my family. Only the second time. The first time was last year and the food and the service were not as hyped, but it was okay.
We waited in line outside for quite a while We had to track down the hostess for wait times, etc. Although there were more people leaving than were waiting in line and we noticed a few empty tables, nobody was seated for at least half an hour. They finally opened the upstairs. The place was very, very noisy; the tables too close together. We had to beg for water. We ordered a very expensive bottle of wine which was the only good thing we had. The two appetizer dishes were okay, but very skimpy. The cheese platter had four small (and I mean tiny) pieces of cheese and a few walnuts and half a fig - all for over $15.00. No oil was offered for the antipasto platter. We had to beg for bread.
I ordered orecchiete with mussels, anchovies and rapini. What I received was raw (I mean totally raw) pasta with half-cooked sausage meat and some wilted rapini (no grated cheese was offered). My daughter received cold (almost fridge cold) tortellini and only three of them. My waiter never apologized, and told me I was mistaken and that what I received was what was on the menu. I showed him the menu and he said there was a "miscommunication with the kitchen" and they could not make the dish with mussels and I would have to accept as is. I said it would be okay if the pasta was not raw. They reheated my daughter's dish but it was still stone cold and inedible. He had no suggestion for us. By this time, the other members of our group had almost finished their meal, so we just ordered a caprese salad for the two of us. I told the waiter we were not paying for the salad, and he reluctantly agreed to comp this. The salad came on a very small plate, two pieces of what they termed "fresh buffalo mozzarella" (very runny and tasteless) on a bed of wilted arugula and one small tomato cut in quarters. No oil, no salt, and the waiter never came back when I asked for same. After a lengthy wait, he brought our bill. He never asked if we wanted coffee or dessert. And, he had the effrontery to charge for the salad. I had to forcefully remind him that he had agreed not to charge us. Needless to say,my daughter and I left hungry. The others in my group thought the food was just so-so.
Some in my group have been there a few times, and they have noticed the service and the quality and quantity of the food has been steadily deteriorating. As the place seems to have a lineup on most nights, I do not understand why they are cutting back. They certainly are not cutting their prices! Italian food, especially southern Italian food is flavorful, fresh and simply prepared, but not so simple that they do not use oil, vinegar, grated cheese, etc.
As I am a very good Italian cook, I am naturally critical of Italian restaurants but there are very good Italian restaurants in Toronto. Terroni is not one of them.
I notice that the favourable reviews are mostly over one years' old. This restaurant either has to step up and give good service and good food, or just do everyone a favour and fade away into the sunset.
Needless to say, none of us will be back. No stars for you!
8. An Italian Who Knows Good Food's Review :: September 29, 2009 An Italian Who Knows Good Food's Rating: Stars |
Seriously...Terroni...It's basic Italian food served with some fresh ingredients and a healthy serving of ridicule. I, like many others writing here, got my dose of contempt when i asked for a simple substitution (spaghetti instead of lunguine).
Okay folks; first of all, this "authentic" Italian food which us mere mortals can't seem to appreciate (see "Chef knows better") comes from all over Italy, a country famous for REGIONAL cooking styles and dishes. This notion of authentic Sicilian food is complete BS. Second, let's be honest, this isnt fine dining. Pizza and Pasta served in an old house on Queen St.!? Give me a break.
Like most of you, i went there cause i heard the food was tasty and fresh. I love Italian food - its simple and rustic - and i was really looking forward to relaxing with a nice glass of wine and a plate of pasta. Instead I got a 25 year old waitress with a bad case of the monthlies telling me how pasta bolognese should be served. SERIOUSLY??? Come on! When you're in college and you want to impress a girl by cooking her dinner what do you cook? Spaghetti Bolognese. Why? Cause its the easiest dish on planet earth to cook!
Give me a break. Save your money folks. The food is ok. Just ok. The servers will pounce if you don't absolutely kiss their bottoms. I bet the price of your meal you leave angry because someone triend to embarrass you.
Ciao!
9. Al's Review :: September 08, 2009 Al's Rating: 1 Stars |
I'm glad to see that some people do not conform to the over-hype of this place. Stop following the sheep, and believing the iPhone commercial and food reviews in Toronto Life.
Finally had to see what this place was about, so my fiance and I headed down on Tuesday night at 9:00.
Menu was nothing to brag about, the 'handful' of gnochhi my fiance ordered was sub-standard at best, the salad was okay, and the pizza was bland... Just okay...
If people want to dwell on the "true", "pure" and "historic" ingredients? My father imports far better olives than these guys...
Lets put it that way..
BOTTOM LINE:
I think people just eat here (at the Queen West location that is), because they think its some kind of priveledge. Do not placate the ego of the chefs and owners.
this place is OKAY... Just okay... I wouldn't bring out-of-town guests here to boast about anything, or waite in line for more than 15 minutes to eat at this place either.
~One thing I will say.. The service was super fast. Ordered, ate and paid in 20 minutes. Good thing too- went for dessert somewhere else.
10. Tina's Review :: July 08, 2009 Tina's Rating: 2 Stars |
I am from the same part of Italy as the owner, thus i can respect the whole concept of no modifications to the dishes but what i do not understand... I was there with a grilfriend for lunch today we both ordered a bottle of wine a salad each and we ordered a pizza to share. We asked our server upon ordering to add extra goat cheese to our pizza, or have a side order of it. WE told her we will pay extra for this. She said she would ask although the kitchen staff is picky! We were not surprised to have her return and say no im afraid they wont do it. Even if there is already goat cheese on the pizza we cant even pay extra to have them adda little more? Absoulutly not. Sorry! Just another reason i dont dine here that often. Good, fresh food but some rules here a too much!
11. Lucia N's Review :: July 01, 2009 Lucia N's Rating: 3 Stars |
I am surprised by reading all of these negative comment's about Terroni. First of all, people need to realize when you go into a restaurant it is not your own personal kitchen. That is why there is a menu; if you like an item on the menu you order it, and if you don't like an item on the menu then you don't order it. If Terroni serves "too many" ingredients or "too little" of an ingredient on a particular item, then don't order it. It seems simple, yet people seem to think they are in the back making the food themselves. They are not. Secondly, not to single anyone comment out, but I read above of someone asking for "Tabasco" sauce...at an Italian restaurant. I'm sorry, but if your asking for Tabasco sauce at an authentic Italian restaurant then the problem lies with the customer not with the restaurant. Now I know everyone has different tastes, different opinions etc but I don't understand why people don't respect that this is how Terroni does things and let it be. Instead people still complain and bicker when they don't get whatever it is they want. I realize you are paying for the meal, and you should obviously get what you want for the most part, but there is this sense of entitlement that I think extends beyond a reasonable limit. Terroni makes great Italian food. Myself and many people would agree on this. In the end, if Terroni isn't the place for you for whatever reason, then simply don't go. I will continue to.
12. James's Review :: June 17, 2009 James's Rating: 4 Stars |
My server brought me dirty plates an this tells me how much they care about the health of the customers. I spoke to the girl in charge and she could care less. I am a plumber by trade and people depend on me for cleanliness. I had a terrible case of the scours. I will never eat at this place again,. Its a wonder the plate did not have Hepititus or somthing else. Be care full of your health you only have 1 life and eating off dirty plate cane be the END.
13. Bull Shannon's Review :: May 24, 2009 Bull Shannon's Rating: 1 Stars |
I have been going to Terroni for more than 10 years and it has always been one of my favourite places. However, the last few times I have been pretty disappointed. Although, I have never had a problem with service and quality - the quantity has changed and I often leave somewhat unsatiated. The last time I ordered gnocchi. It was heavily salted and I received about a handful on the plate. Same with the salad. Very disappointing especially since I brought along an out-of-town friend to whom I had raved about the place.
I know they provide quality ingredients and I'm prepared to pay for them, but I also think I should be given an adequate portion. This has changed noticeably - especially since prices obviously are not decreasing.
14. Stephanie's Review :: March 10, 2009 Stephanie's Rating: 2 Stars |
I've been eating at Terroni on Queen for over 12 years, it's the place as a child where our folks used to take the kids for a simple pizza and some nice atmosphere. I'll be heading over there tonight for a girlfriend's birthday, we still eat there once a week, when I decided to read over some of the reviews on this site. To be honest, they make me a little sick to my stomach. I find it pretty unbelievable that the patrons whom have come to Terroni and left hating it are so closed minded that they can't understand a restaurant that strives to be different.
Terroni is based on strong family traditions... as someone said in another review you wouldn't go to a friend's Nonna's home and ask to change the pasta noodle. I understand if a snippy server may have left a bad taste your mouth, but to call the food bland is just plain ignorant. All of the ingredients used are of the highest quality, either bought locally or shipped from Italy, and every meal is made to order, there is not a vat of tomato sauce sitting around so you can have a side of it with your apristomaco or extra for your spaghetti.
When it comes to modifications or substitutions, the menu is chock full of choices, there are 30 pizzas on it, if you can't find something you like you are obviously a picky eater and should head to John's Italian where you can make your own pizza.
Terroni is my favourite restaurant in Toronto, always has been and probably always will be. Considering that they've been around since 1992, they're obviously doing something right... now go eat somewhere else, you're ruining my dinner.
15. Katrina's Review :: March 09, 2009 Katrina's Rating: 4 Stars |
My wife and I live in Toronto, and have dined at Terroni a number of times over the years. Today is the last time we will visit any of their restaurants. While the food is good, fresh, and genuine, Terroni has, on multiple occasions, worked really hard at trying our patience.
The first time, as our waitress had poured the obligatory olive oil to dip our bread, my wife politely asked if she could have a drop of balsamic vinegar. The waitress staunchly refused, and when asked the reason, began lecturing us on the purity of the Terroni brand, and how mixing balsamic vinegar with oil didnât represent the true expression of Italian culinary tradition â not only was she forbidden from serving us vinegar, but how plebeian of us to ask.
Stunned by the reaction, my wife decided to bypass the neurotic waitress and ask the kitchen for a little balsamic. As she approached the counter, she was deftly intercepted by said vigilant waitress who, nearly in tears, sternly reminded us that vinegar was âverbotenâ. First evening ruined.
The second time, we visited a Terroni restaurant that had just opened on Adelaide Street. Once seated, we were asked for our drinks order. Our friend ordered a diet Coke, to which the waitress replied that âour owners does not believe in diet colasâ. Stunned by such direct, scolding reply, she chose a regular Coke, which thankfully appeared to be an acceptable choice. Second evening ruined.
Finally today, for the third and last time, we visited Terroniâs Queen Street restaurant with friends from the United States. I was sensitized by our past experiences, but was willing to give the place one last try, even though it was not my first choice. I did warn my wife to kindly avoid questioning in the slightest any and all food modifications â no matter how slight â fearing reprisal.
Unfortunately, as the waitress was taking our orders, one of our blissfully unaware friends fell into the diabolic trap and dared âIâd love your Nizzarda salad, but would it be possible to please hold the anchovies?ââ¦. well, that was simply too much of an affront to the legendary purity of the Terroni tradition: the waitress, on cue, began lecturing us on the impeccable quality of their food and ingredients, and the historic tradition behind them that made it so very unthinkable to substitute or modify any and all dishes â all of Italy and civilization itself had been insulted by a request to hold an anchovy. She concluded the sermon by admonishing that Terroni âwas all about being true to their foodâ.
The tone was sanctimonious, arrogant, and unbelievably presumptuous. Toronto is still a little childishly full of itself, as in New Yorkâs poorer cousin trying hard not to be ignored. Some of its restaurants reflect that, with Terroni at the head of the pack. I informed the waitress that perhaps they should think of staying true to their customers form time to time. It so happens that I was born and raised in Italy, but never found a restaurant there or anywhere that took itself quite so seriously, and made a point of lecturing its customers quite so sanctimoniously. You can remain true to your tradition and still be kind to your customers â we did not ask for ketchup on our spaghetti. Dogmas do not belong in the kitchen.
If you value Italian food and customer service, and would rather avoid a sermon delivered by a clueless 25-year-old on the fine culinary traditions of their founders, go to Trio Ristorante and Pizzeria: youâll spend less, get better service, and taste the best authentic pizza this side of the Atlantic.
16. Maurizio's Review :: March 07, 2009 Maurizio's Rating: 1 Stars |
First - let me say the the phone # you've listed is incorrect: 0320, not 0329.
Love the vibe. A bit noisy, but energetic. I have to laugh at the Sicilian purists the owners are - they won't let you mix balsamic with the oil! Food was great, wine selection good. Everyone I've brought has loved it.
17. Donna's Review :: February 26, 2009 Donna's Rating: 3 Stars |
If you're looking for the ultimate pretentious eating experience, you'll find it at Terroni's where not only are simple substitutions impossible, but adding Parmesan cheese to non-parmesan based pizzas and pastas is a CRIME and the owner "disagrees" with Aspartame - so you will not be served a diet soda.
You'll be told that it's because each of chef's gastrinomical delights is made to such specific standards that even the slightest change with cheese or salt or pepper - will render your meal imperfect. (Which, btw, is how it arrives - underwhelming and tasteless to begin with.)
However, you can ask for an infinite supply of hot peppers to add to your food. Which my Indian brother-in-law took advantage of by adding a 1 inch layer of hot peppers to the top of his pizza. Apparently that didn't effect the chef's delicate creation at all.
Find the logic in that....
18. Sara's Review :: February 24, 2009 Sara's Rating: 1 Stars |
THE ABSOLUTE WORST SERVICE EVER!
The attitude and pretention of the Terroni clan is both appalling and disgusting. You turn my stomach you pigs.
The manager refused every one of our requests, all while sporting pink eye.
Someone should call the health department. It looked serious.
To the staff: Soap is your friend. Learn to love it.
19. Next Time Mr Manager, I'll Embarrass YOU's Review :: January 05, 2009 Next Time Mr Manager, I'll Embarrass YOU's Rating: 1 Stars |
I had a terrible time at Terroni and will never go back.
My pizza was bland so I asked for some Parmesan cheese to help give it some flavour. To my surprise, the waitress told me no, I'm not "allowed" to have Parmesan on my (bland and flavourless) pizza. The chef apparently wants to ensure customers enjoy their pizza in the traditional Southern Italian way, and therefore with no Parmesan cheese. A person in our party asked if she was "allowed" to have Parmesan on her pasta and she was granted permission. She asked for the Parmesan on a side plate (so she could illegally share her controversial Parmesan with me) and was told no, the waitress can only place the Parmesan directly on the pasta to ensure nobody goes and uses that Parmesan on an item where it's not permitted.
I'm not making this up.
If the chef would like to recommend how to best enjoy his or her food, that's totally acceptable and appreciated. But to be so insecure about their menu that they actually create rules that impede the enjoyment of their customers -- is totally ridiculous.
People choose to go out to dinner to have a good time, not to be "educated" by a condescending and insecure chef. I've been to a lot better restaurants and enjoyed the food of very accomplished chefs, and certainly would never recommend returning to be taught any more lessons on food from a chef at a $15 pizza joint.
20. Justin's Review :: December 30, 2008 Justin's Rating: 1 Stars |
Can't really see how anyone with any sort of reasonable palate can think Terroni is serving up anything special.
The 4 choice chef special appetizer platter was a big disappointment, The mozzarella balls were dry like sandpaper and really could have used some marinara at least to save them (out of the question here), in fact We questioned each other and were wondering if a frozen President's choice mozzarella ball may have been far more tasty!
Overall the other offerings on the appetizer platter tasted VERY bland and crusty again like sandpaper. Even some garlic would have made what was offered on the platter somewhat tasty. VERY BLAND, not worth even close to the $15 for this.
The main dishes we ordered were Spaghetti with seafood (clams, shrimp scallops, calamari & mussels) & Spaghetti Bolognese:
The seafood dish was a little light on the following: Seafood :) Pasta, Sauce, Flavor IE: again bland. The clams were not at all properly cleaned, sandy and gritty and overall the dish was very sub mediocre.
The Bolognese dish was again very un-inspiring (tasteless sauce) overall but a step above the seafood pasta.
Don't see what the hype that still surrounds Terroni, perhaps it appeals to teenagers or the early 20's crowd who don't know authentic cuisine.
For the same money you can certainly find a tastier Italian meal in the downtown core for the same or even less money.
Will definatly not be returning to any Terroni location (Queen West Location referred to in this review) Don't waste your time and certainly don't ever EVER stand in line for this place!!!
21. Italian Food Lover's Review :: December 20, 2008 Italian Food Lover's Rating: 2 Stars |
The arrogance at Terroni's is appalling. All requests were denied. The assumption being that the chef knows what I like better than I do. Well he's wrong. Can I have my sandwich pressed? No. Can I dip my sandwich in olive oil and vinegar? No. Can I have mustard for my veal sandwich? No. Can I have cheese for my pasta? No. Can I have salt and pepper? Reluctantly, the waitress agreed to provide that, and watched over my shoulder while I added it to my food. Apparently she was not allowed to leave the salt and pepper on the table. I guess the diner is not to be trusted. The food was bland, dull, and overpriced; but the overall arrogance of the waitress and chef made the meal even worse. I know what I like, too bad Terroni's won't allow me to have it my way. In a city with so many great restaurants, Terroni's attitude doesn't stand a chance.
22. Disappointed Diner's Review :: September 25, 2008 Disappointed Diner's Rating: 1 Stars |
What I love about terroni is how true they stay to the traditional style of Italian food. They serve the food as if you are a guest in someone's home in a small countryside in Italy. Imagine asking for more balsamic or parmesan when you are a guest at someone's home! But also needless to say, each dish is a family recipe and is specially formulated to apply to each pallette. The problem with substitutions and modifications is sometimes those substitutions will ruin the flavours that are meant for the dish, and when this occurs, the customer automatically claims that the restaurant is not good. A customer would NEVER blame their own decision to modify the food. Having said that, I wasn't always on Terroni's side. In fact, I was just as angry at first, but having thought it through i think if that is how they want to run their business then so be it! All their ingredients are of the highest grade available. From the Vita Eggs that they use all the way down to the meats that are butchered themselves or bought from local butchers. Their cheeses are of highest quality and they make the pasta fresh straight from their basement daily. The seafood they serve is always fresh, not frozen.
Don't you want that kind of quality in all the food you eat?
23. Yummyum's Review :: September 17, 2008 Yummyum's Rating: 4 Stars |
What I love about terroni is how true they stay to the traditional style of Italian food. They serve the food as if you are a guest in someone's home in a small countryside in Italy. Imagine asking for more balsamic or parmesan when you are a guest at someone's home! But also needless to say, each dish is a family recipe and is specially formulated to apply to each pallette. The problem with substitutions and modifications is sometimes those substitutions will ruin the flavours that are meant for the dish, and when this occurs, the customer automatically claims that the restaurant is not good. A customer would NEVER blame their own decision to modify the food. Having said that, I wasn't always on Terroni's side. In fact, I was just as angry at first, but having thought it through i think if that is how they want to run their business then so be it! All their ingredients are of the highest grade available. From the Vita Eggs that they use all the way down to the meats that are butchered themselves or bought from local butchers. Their cheeses are of highest quality and they make the pasta fresh straight from their basement daily. The seafood they serve is always fresh, not frozen.
Don't you want that kind of quality in all the food you eat?
24. Yummyum's Review :: September 17, 2008 Yummyum's Rating: 4 Stars |
The chef Nazi apparently does not allow balsamic vinegar, although several different bottles are for sale at the court house location. The claim is that the chef knows better how you should eat your food and if you donât like it- then go somewhere else. I invite you to reduce your tip by the appropriate amount. Same thing for parmesan cheese- not allowed according to the Nazis of Terronis. So I asked to purchase the balsamic for sale there with the intention of putting it onto my bread. She said she would take it away from me if she saw me putting it on my bread. So she lost about 2/3 of her tip.
I think it would be fairer though if when you walked it they simply stated we don't offer parmesan cheeze for your pasta/pizza or balsamic vinegar with oil for your bread. They you would already know once you started ordering. What kind of management puts their staff on the front lines to break down standards of previously set for italian food? I prefer Mercados on Toronto Street, much nicer people and better food.
25. Joe's Review :: September 08, 2008 Joe's Rating: 1 Stars |
The music played didn't suit the food or atmosphere and at one point they decided to turn it up way too loud. Maybe they did that to drown out the people - I like the casualness of the place but the volume of people's talking was uncomfortable. My biggest complaint would be very small portion sizes (especially one dish compared to another at the same price), dishes not being quite as described and slow and inattentive service. The pizzas looked great and the wine was fantastic.
26. Brandy S's Review :: September 05, 2008 Brandy S's Rating: 2 Stars |
I just tried Terroni's for the first time, after hearing great things about the food. We asked 3 waiters for fresh grated parmesan cheese for our pizza (which was supposed to have parmesan on it already, however we could not see any), and each time, were told that we could not have cheese for our pizza, as the dishes are all served in a very particular way. We eventually complained to the manager, who agreed with us that they are losing customers over this "policy", however did not wish to resolve the situation. He mentioned that Terroni's stopped leaving the cheese graters on the table 2-3 months ago, because people were using it on their pizza! We explained to him that denying a customer parmesan cheese is like denying them salt and pepper, and he stated that "no fine dining establishment provides salt and pepper". His comment is certainly lacking validity, as I have yet to be refused salt and pepper in any kind of restaurant! And after today's experience, I can't understand why he thinks Terroni is a "fine dining restaurant". His only attempt at rectifying the situation was offering us a "seafood dish" instead. At this point, I am still unsure what that would have solved, as we went to Terroni specifically for pizza!
I should have left the pizza and walked out, however I ate it anyway, and paid for it, however for the first time ever, I left exact change with absolutely NO tip!
There are many other wonderful restaurants in Toronto that actually try to please their paying customers - Terroni is NOT one of them! Do yourself a favour and spend your time and money elsewhere!
27. Jamie's Review :: August 24, 2008 Jamie's Rating: 1 Stars |
HI EVERYBODY:
WE WENT YESTERDAY TO TERRONI ITALIAN RESTAURANT...AND YOU KNOW WHAT? THAT WAS A VERY BAD EXPERIENCE!!! I GOT VERY VERY MAD; WITH THE SERVICE, WITH THE FOOD....AND LAST THING AND WORST....THE PRICE!!!
THE GUYS ASKED FOR PASTA WITH SEAFOOD, THE PASTA WAS GOOD BUT THAT WAS A POOR PORTION, THEY DID'T GET SATISFACTED AND MY LASAGNA WAS HORRIBLE!!! THE OUTSIDE WAS WARM, BUT THE INSIDE VERY COLD(BUT THE COLD WAS LIKE THE LASAGNA HAD BEEN IN THE FRIDGE AND THE JUST WARMED UP IN THE MICROWAVE.....OR MAYBE IT WOULD BE FROZEN, AND THEY JUST DEFROST MY PIECE OF LASAGNA)I DON'T REALLY KNOW BUT ALSO MY PIECE WAS POOR AND I THOUGT "THIS IS NOT ENOUGH FOOD FOR ANYBODY"
I ASKED TO THE WAITREES TO RE-WARM MY FOOD... AND IT TOOK ABOUT 13 MIN. AND SHE BROUGHT THE SAME PIECE OF LASAGNA WARMED BUT THE EDGES WERE BURNED...CAN YOU IMAGINE THIS KIND OF SERVICE? IS IT A REAL RESTAURAT? AND BEFORE THIS I ASKED FOR WATER, AND YOU KNOW WHEN SHE BROUGHT IT? NEVEEEEEEEEERRRRRRRR.....
THE LAST: THE CHECK.....$70...WOOOW! I DON'T MIND TO SPEND MONEY IN GOOD FOOD... I LOVE TO EAT OUTSIDE....BUT I DID'T EAT GOOD FOOD AND I HAD TO GO TO OTHER RESTAURAT TO GET MY STOMACH SATISFACTED....
PLEASE PEOPLE WORKING IN THIS RESTAURANT....DO SOMETING....I DON'T KNOW WHY YOUR RESTAURANT WAS FULL YESTERDAY...I CAN'T UNDERSTAND!!
WE ARE TOURISTS AND WE GOT A VERY BAD EXPERIENCE IN TORONTO!!! IS THIS THE REASON WHY WE WERE TREATED BAD? BECAUSE WE ARE TOURISTS? BECAUSE WE AREN'T ITALIANS? I DON'T KNOW.....PLEASE IF THE MANAGER CAN EXPLAIN ME ALL THIS SITUATION, I'LL APRECIATE IT!!!!!
28. Noemi's Review :: August 05, 2008 Noemi's Rating: 1 Stars |
What started out to be a birthday celebration ended up being a sickened and horrifying experience at Terroni - Yonge & St. Clair.
The pasta was tasteless, dry, hard and served cold. We would not recommend this restaurant to anyone.
First of all we were crammed on a table that accommodate 4...and it was five of us. We didn't think anything of it since we were out to have a good time and we didn't really cared....we were all very flexible.
Secondly one of our friends ordered a drink. She looked nothing like a teenager but was requested to show an ID. We know its the law and abide by it. Still having lots of fun. We give the waiter a health card with picture, DOB etc etc everything that you will think is required to check proof of age. He denied that saying that 'they' take only drivers license. We were all taken back, but humbly obliged and give him the drivers license. We were still having fun at this time.
Thirdly, we ordered a round of Ice Tea and water for everyone. We were given a container (bottle/Jug) of water of about 1 liter of water. Within a short time we finished the water and asked for more. At that time the waiter told us that 'they' do not have any more water. We were just stunned. At time point we knew that something was going on. We told him that we were never denied water before. He then went over to another table where people had just left, he picked up their water (1/2 jug) and brought it to us saying that this is the best he can do. We were just horrified and appalled that we were treated this way. We refused the water and said that we would not drink anyone else's water. He then took the same bottle and went to the back and fill it from the tap and brought it back. When he brought it was still foaming (not sure if he did anything with it
We ordered our food plus appetizer. We waited half an hour before we got our food. The table next to us that came in after us, ordered and was eating and our food did not arrive. When our food came it was cold and dry. There was no sauce etc etc etc. One of the party in our group took a while before he was served his pizza. We were all eating while one of the party in our group sat and waited and waited and waited for his pizza. We asked for Tabasco sauce and was told that they do not have.
We were deliberately ill treated and we felt violated.
I admire the comment above for not waiting for the food and just paid for the drinks. If we did today we would have have been $200 bucks richer. Good work.
I will NEVER return to Terroni. NEVER.
29. Anonymous's Review :: June 25, 2008 |
What started out to be a birthday celebration ended up being a sickened and horrifying experience at Terroni - Yonge & St. Clair.
The pasta was tasteless, dry, hard and served cold. We would not recommend this restaurant to anyone.
First of all we were crammed on a table that accommodate 4...and it was five of us. We didn't think anything of it since we were out to have a good time and we didn't really cared....we were all very flexible.
Secondly one of our friends ordered a drink. She looked nothing like a teenager but was requested to show an ID. We know its the law and abide by it. Still having lots of fun. We give the waiter a health card with picture, DOB etc etc everything that you will think is required to check proof of age. He denied that saying that 'they' take only drivers license. We were all taken back, but humbly obliged and give him the drivers license. We were still having fun at this time.
Thirdly, we ordered a round of Ice Tea and water for everyone. We were given a container (bottle/Jug) of water of about 1 liter of water. Within a short time we finished the water and asked for more. At that time the waiter told us that 'they' do not have any more water. We were just stunned. At time point we knew that something was going on. We told him that we were never denied water before. He then went over to another table where people had just left, he picked up their water (1/2 jug) and brought it to us saying that this is the best he can do. We were just horrified and appalled that we were treated this way. We refused the water and said that we would not drink anyone else's water. He then took the same bottle and went to the back and fill it from the tap and brought it back. When he brought it was still foaming (not sure if he did anything with it
We ordered our food plus appetizer. We waited half an hour before we got our food. The table next to us that came in after us, ordered and was eating and our food did not arrive. When our food came it was cold and dry. There was no sauce etc etc etc. One of the party in our group took a while before he was served his pizza. We were all eating while one of the party in our group sat and waited and waited and waited for his pizza. We asked for Tabasco sauce and was told that they do not have.
We were deliberately ill treated and we felt violated.
I admire the comment above for not waiting for the food and just paid for the drinks. If we did today we would have have been $200 bucks richer. Good work.
I will NEVER return to Terroni. NEVER.
30. Girl's Review :: June 25, 2008 Girl's Rating: 1 Stars |
Very comfortable little place on Queen West (the Victoria one is shut indefinitely, but it was also cozy.) The service is youthfully random at times, but this Queen location is a nice stop for a snack, a coffee or a decent meal.
Sometimes the food is a little bland and under-presented (such as boccocini salad missing very much basil or other seasoning.) Seems to vary with what's going on in the kitchen that day. Some of the fare is quite tasty by itself (case in point, the pizza with gorgonzola, pears and walnuts) while other dishes are a bit lonely without some rugged italian table wine to support it - indeed this is a pairing which the cuisine intended.
If you can handle the emphatic 'we'll tell YOU how everything should be in Southern Italy' aspect, and just go with it, you will have a fun time at Terroni. Opinionated, yes, but Cosimo Mammoliti cares about good food and an authentic atmosphere, and has created a unique overall experience for the city. There's a whiff of real Italy here which seems like the most important thing. It must be the social dignity of ancient culture that is so appealing (and somewhat alien to Toronto as a whole.)
Points for perhaps THE most classy washrooms in a casual resto-bar, always important for the lady friend you will invite. Okay I like them too.
31. Jonas's Review :: June 12, 2008 Jonas's Rating: 3 Stars |
Very comfortable little place on Queen West (the Victoria one is shut indefinitely, but it was also cozy.) The service is youthfully random at times, but this Queen location is a nice stop for a snack, a coffee or a decent meal.
Sometimes the food is a little bland and under-presented (such as boccocini salad missing very much basil or other seasoning.) Seems to vary with what's going on in the kitchen that day. Some of the fare is quite tasty by itself (case in point, the pizza with gorgonzola, pears and walnuts) while other dishes are a bit lonely without some rugged italian table wine to support it - indeed this is a pairing which the cuisine intended.
If you can handle the emphatic 'we'll tell YOU how everything should be in Southern Italy' aspect, and just go with it, you will have a fun time at Terroni. Opinionated, yes, but Cosimo Mammoliti cares about good food and an authentic atmosphere, and has created a unique overall experience for the city. There's a whiff of real Italy here which seems like the most important thing. It must be the social dignity of ancient culture that is so appealing (and somewhat alien to Toronto as a whole.)
Points for perhaps THE most classy washrooms in a casual resto-bar, always important for the lady friend you will invite. Okay I like them too.
32. Jonas's Review :: June 12, 2008 Jonas's Rating: 3 Stars |
For high maintenance people like Richard Pollara who order their food like Sally in Harry Met Sally, "no substitutions" is way too complicated a concept to understand.
Terroni is awesome. The staff can be a bit aloof and cool, but I've never been disappointed with the food.
33. Anonymous's Review :: February 13, 2008 |
For high maintenance people like Richard Pollara who order their food like Sally in Harry Met Sally, "no substitutions" is way too complicated a concept to understand.
Terroni is awesome. The staff can be a bit aloof and cool, but I've never been disappointed with the food.
34. Pete Largo's Review :: February 13, 2008 Pete Largo's Rating: 4 Stars |
Perhaps the rudest restaraunt I have been to in a long time. Got there at about ten on a Monday night. The place was about half-full. They walked us past 6 or 7 open tables and squeezed us into a small two top that was so close to the neighboring tables that I could have leaned over and taken a sip from their drink. Ok. I guess I should have asked to be moved. My fault. We got our menus and I chose a Penne Putenseca. I asked that instead of Penne could I get linguini or any other thinner pasta. "No! Absolutely no substitutions", our waitress said. But this isn't a substitution. You are cooking linguini, you are also making putenesca. Just put the sauce over the linguini instead of the penne." No! No sustitutions. "Ok, I said. Let me look over the menu again." When she came back I ordered Pasta Pommodore. I like tomato sauce so I said, "Can you bring me a little extra sauce on the side." "I"ll check with the kitchen." When she came back she said. "No sauce." It was like a Seinfeld episode and she was the Pasta Nazi. "Come back one year later!" So I threw up my hands, asked for the bill and paid for two cokes which we didn't drink (9 dollars by the way with tax and tip) and left. Maybe I am spoiled, but I eat our almost every night and most of the places I go to are small businesses where people appreciate your patronage and are willing to accomodate reasonable requests. Not this place. Maybe the food is great but I will never find out. I do know that restaraunts live or die by repeat business. People who come over and over to a place want to feel that they matter. That is not the case at Terroni.
35. Anonymous's Review :: February 12, 2008 |
Perhaps the rudest restaraunt I have been to in a long time. Got there at about ten on a Monday night. The place was about half-full. They walked us past 6 or 7 open tables and squeezed us into a small two top that was so close to the neighboring tables that I could have leaned over and taken a sip from their drink. Ok. I guess I should have asked to be moved. My fault. We got our menus and I chose a Penne Putenseca. I asked that instead of Penne could I get linguini or any other thinner pasta. "No! Absolutely no substitutions", our waitress said. But this isn't a substitution. You are cooking linguini, you are also making putenesca. Just put the sauce over the linguini instead of the penne." No! No sustitutions. "Ok, I said. Let me look over the menu again." When she came back I ordered Pasta Pommodore. I like tomato sauce so I said, "Can you bring me a little extra sauce on the side." "I"ll check with the kitchen." When she came back she said. "No sauce." It was like a Seinfeld episode and she was the Pasta Nazi. "Come back one year later!" So I threw up my hands, asked for the bill and paid for two cokes which we didn't drink (9 dollars by the way with tax and tip) and left. Maybe I am spoiled, but I eat our almost every night and most of the places I go to are small businesses where people appreciate your patronage and are willing to accomodate reasonable requests. Not this place. Maybe the food is great but I will never find out. I do know that restaraunts live or die by repeat business. People who come over and over to a place want to feel that they matter. That is not the case at Terroni.
36. Richard Pollara's Review :: February 12, 2008 Richard Pollara's Rating: 1 Stars |
Since being introduced to Terroni's on Queen by a friend, who as a result became a good friend, I have become a Terroni's addict. The food, all of it and I've been there about 10 times now is amazing. The service is good and friendly but sometimes a little slow, the atmosphere is wonderfully genuine. Some of the seats are great, others are dismal, ie booth in front window. If I don't Terroni on a regular basis my meagre stock of humnaity just disappears. Must say smade of the negative reviewers do seem to have some very particular needs and wishes. In fact I am surprised they don't just stay at home a bit more if they are that adverse to a unique food experience. No restaurant is for everyone so no need to get bent out of shape, just don't go back.
37. Anonymous's Review :: December 11, 2007 |
Since being introduced to Terroni's on Queen by a friend, who as a result became a good friend, I have become a Terroni's addict. The food, all of it and I've been there about 10 times now is amazing. The service is good and friendly but sometimes a little slow, the atmosphere is wonderfully genuine. Some of the seats are great, others are dismal, ie booth in front window. If I don't Terroni on a regular basis my meagre stock of humnaity just disappears. Must say smade of the negative reviewers do seem to have some very particular needs and wishes. In fact I am surprised they don't just stay at home a bit more if they are that adverse to a unique food experience. No restaurant is for everyone so no need to get bent out of shape, just don't go back.
38. Patrick's Review :: December 05, 2007 Patrick's Rating: 4 Stars |
I liked my meal at Terroni's but thought it was quite loud inside. The thin crust pizza is good but to tell the truth it's even better at Caffe Doria!!! I really enjoyed the mushroom salad though, that was perfection.
39. Anonymous's Review :: November 02, 2007 |
I liked my meal at Terroni's but thought it was quite loud inside. The thin crust pizza is good but to tell the truth it's even better at Caffe Doria!!! I really enjoyed the mushroom salad though, that was perfection.
40. Judy's Review :: November 02, 2007 Judy's Rating: 3 Stars |
Terroni is what it is--a pretty darn authentic Italian trattoria that adheres to tradition and maintains the integrity of their food by being stubborn about modifications to the menu. Trust them. Don't add sauces where they do not belong. Don't create your own dishes (there's something for everyone on the extensive menu and daily specials). And for heaven's sake, don't bring in your own dessert--to any restaurant for that matter! That's paramount to bringing in your a Starbucks coffee and asking for milk and sugar. It's just silly, especially when the majority of their desserts are made on the premise. Service can be hurried but the competent, charming staff have a line-up most hours of the day to tend to. And the wine list--all Italian--is a treasure.
41. Anonymous's Review :: July 08, 2007 |
Terroni is what it is--a pretty darn authentic Italian trattoria that adheres to tradition and maintains the integrity of their food by being stubborn about modifications to the menu. Trust them. Don't add sauces where they do not belong. Don't create your own dishes (there's something for everyone on the extensive menu and daily specials). And for heaven's sake, don't bring in your own dessert--to any restaurant for that matter! That's paramount to bringing in your a Starbucks coffee and asking for milk and sugar. It's just silly, especially when the majority of their desserts are made on the premise. Service can be hurried but the competent, charming staff have a line-up most hours of the day to tend to. And the wine list--all Italian--is a treasure.
42. Franny's Review :: July 07, 2007 Franny's Rating: 4 Stars |
As anyone who works on Queen street W knows it's frustrating to find a good food day after day. I agree that Terroni has great pizza but FORGET about taking it out! They REFUSE to cut it for you!They will however offer you a plastic fork and knife....FANTASTIC! Have you ever tried to cut a thin crust pizze with plastic?? As well, do not asked for sliced tomatoes on any pizza b/c you will get a whole tomatoe cut into quarters! Yah, those hunks completely stay on the pizza when you pick it with your hands b/c you can't cut it! Great taste if you look at from the mind set that it all ends up in the same place!
43. Anonymous's Review :: May 21, 2007 |
As anyone who works on Queen street W knows it's frustrating to find a good food day after day. I agree that Terroni has great pizza but FORGET about taking it out! They REFUSE to cut it for you!They will however offer you a plastic fork and knife....FANTASTIC! Have you ever tried to cut a thin crust pizze with plastic?? As well, do not asked for sliced tomatoes on any pizza b/c you will get a whole tomatoe cut into quarters! Yah, those hunks completely stay on the pizza when you pick it with your hands b/c you can't cut it! Great taste if you look at from the mind set that it all ends up in the same place!
44. Joannna's Review :: May 20, 2007 Joannna's Rating: 2 Stars |
Six of us were there for dinner celebrating our friend's birthday; a few of us were new customers. We spent several hundred dollars on wine, appetizers and pizzas. Following our meal, which we did enjoy, we asked if they would be willing to provide us with few plates as we had a personalized cake for the birthday girl. They refused until we mentioned we would like permission to ask the owner to accomodate our special request. At this point they relented. We stated that we would be happy to order coffees and cappucinnos to accompany the cake. Clearly irritated, the server brought over plates and rudely slammed them down in front of each of us. She left without saying a word. No one ever returned with cutlery. Although our server passed by us several times, in the end, we had to pick the cake up and eat it with our hands. They never bothered to take our coffee order. We then sat for an additional 45 minutes without anyone attending to our table. We finally had to ask someone if they could provide us with the bill.
Terroni had an opportunity to make a very positive impression by accommodating our unusual request with grace. Instead, they were extremely rude. They then automatically tacked on a 15% gratuity to our bill. We were very disappointed with the overall experience. If you are looking for a place with good food and equally good service, we would definetely not recommend this particular Terroni location on Queen St W.
45. Anonymous's Review :: May 10, 2007 |
Six of us were there for dinner celebrating our friend's birthday; a few of us were new customers. We spent several hundred dollars on wine, appetizers and pizzas. Following our meal, which we did enjoy, we asked if they would be willing to provide us with few plates as we had a personalized cake for the birthday girl. They refused until we mentioned we would like permission to ask the owner to accomodate our special request. At this point they relented. We stated that we would be happy to order coffees and cappucinnos to accompany the cake. Clearly irritated, the server brought over plates and rudely slammed them down in front of each of us. She left without saying a word. No one ever returned with cutlery. Although our server passed by us several times, in the end, we had to pick the cake up and eat it with our hands. They never bothered to take our coffee order. We then sat for an additional 45 minutes without anyone attending to our table. We finally had to ask someone if they could provide us with the bill.
Terroni had an opportunity to make a very positive impression by accommodating our unusual request with grace. Instead, they were extremely rude. They then automatically tacked on a 15% gratuity to our bill. We were very disappointed with the overall experience. If you are looking for a place with good food and equally good service, we would definetely not recommend this particular Terroni location on Queen St W.
46. Allison's Review :: May 10, 2007 Allison's Rating: 2 Stars |
This is a restaurant that was recommended to us. We were 6 adults and 2 children. Interesting menu choices and good food with one very important exception - and this is why we are submitting this review. One of our party was gluten intolerant, and does not eat dairy. Much to her delight, there was a polenta dish on the menu which suited her dietary needs. When it arrived the polenta was looking lonely and sauceless. She requested of the server, a small bowl of tomato sauce, the server left, not to return with with the sauce, but in the form of our main server, who explained to us that it was impossible to serve a side of sauce, as this was not the way the dish was intended and all sauces were prepared to order. We suggested that a small bowl of the pizza sauce would suffice. her response was that this was a rather bland sauce and would not do the dish in question any justice. Our response was that it certainly wouldn't make it any worse. She then offered to wrap the food so that we could take it with us! The next person to appear at our table was a gentleman (waiter? manager? owner? - we have no idea, as no introduction was forth coming). He asked us what our concern was and the person, who now had a stone cold meal in front of her explained her request. He explained to us that they maintained a very traditional menu, and made no substitutions, and again offered to wrap the meal so we could take it with us. As a group we are not uneducated in the functionings of a decent restaurant. The person who received the unfortunate service owns 2 very successful downtown toronto bars. three of us have about 40 years of restaurant experience between us, both front and back of the house, and one currently works in the area of hospitality education. the arrogance of this type of attitude to toward a simple customer request that did not require the re-writing of the menu is offensive and impacted all members of our party. Did I mention that item was fully charged on the bill? Thanks for listening.
47. Anonymous's Review :: April 09, 2007 |
This is a restaurant that was recommended to us. We were 6 adults and 2 children. Interesting menu choices and good food with one very important exception - and this is why we are submitting this review. One of our party was gluten intolerant, and does not eat dairy. Much to her delight, there was a polenta dish on the menu which suited her dietary needs. When it arrived the polenta was looking lonely and sauceless. She requested of the server, a small bowl of tomato sauce, the server left, not to return with with the sauce, but in the form of our main server, who explained to us that it was impossible to serve a side of sauce, as this was not the way the dish was intended and all sauces were prepared to order. We suggested that a small bowl of the pizza sauce would suffice. her response was that this was a rather bland sauce and would not do the dish in question any justice. Our response was that it certainly wouldn't make it any worse. She then offered to wrap the food so that we could take it with us! The next person to appear at our table was a gentleman (waiter? manager? owner? - we have no idea, as no introduction was forth coming). He asked us what our concern was and the person, who now had a stone cold meal in front of her explained her request. He explained to us that they maintained a very traditional menu, and made no substitutions, and again offered to wrap the meal so we could take it with us. As a group we are not uneducated in the functionings of a decent restaurant. The person who received the unfortunate service owns 2 very successful downtown toronto bars. three of us have about 40 years of restaurant experience between us, both front and back of the house, and one currently works in the area of hospitality education. the arrogance of this type of attitude to toward a simple customer request that did not require the re-writing of the menu is offensive and impacted all members of our party. Did I mention that item was fully charged on the bill? Thanks for listening.
48. Michele T.M.'s Review :: April 08, 2007 Michele T.M.'s Rating: 1 Stars |
Best Pizza in town! Great pasta and with the new extension...more room. There's a reason for the line-up. It's just plain great.
49. Maria's Review :: April 05, 2007 Maria's Rating: 4 Stars |
Terroni has the best thin crust pizza in Toronto. The perfect crisp thinness to showcase the wonderful first rate toppings. I crave their pizza weekly. Their mains and specials are great too. The atmosphere at the Queen W location is the funnest. The clientle is that coveted demographic of the hip, successful and fashionable and everyone is enjoying the food! The patio in the summer is a romantic getaway even when it's packed, and it's always busy. The common dinner wait time of 20 min can put a damper on things (and no one wants that front table because it gets a blast of cold everytime the door opens), best to wait at the bar and have a drink, perusing the menu until you are seated. And then the real fun begins!
50. Marie's Review :: February 15, 2006 Marie's Rating: 4 Stars |
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720 Queen St W, Toronto, ON, Canada |
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MBO Toronto :: Toronto Restaurants & Dining Guide
