As one of the most multicultural cities in the world, Toronto’s options for astounding and diverse food options is limitless. I must start this blog by explaining that, one of my greatest loves in this life is with food, cooking it but more than that, eating it. Perhaps it was instilled in me from a young age, spending my time in the kitchen with my Italian mom and her mouthwatering Mediterranean dishes. I only hope that you, as the reader will find this information useful and entertaining.
That being said, I know that the article I’m about to write is ambitions for an enthusiastic, yet not so well known food blogger, but today I’ll be blogging a popular French Bistro in Toronto, Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie.
Atmosphere
Cluny Bistro is situated in Old Town Toronto, in the historic Distillery District. Famous for its cobblestone streets, 19th century buildings, modern art galleries and picturesque backdrops. The Distillery District bestows a sense of elegance and romance. The Cluny Bistro sparkles with twinkling lights, and lush greenery that embrace the outdoor patio, and lead into the restaurant. Past the bar on your right & the Boulangerie to the left, the dining hall opens to high ceilings, exposed brick and pillars wrapped in copper. Large flowers pots with gorgeous fresh flowers caught my eye as we made our way to the table. The seating was comfortable and private with an airy and welcoming impression, just like you would expect from a high end bistro in Paris.
Service
We visited Cluny Bistro on a Monday evening, it was not overly crowed, although I am sure a reservation would be needed for most evenings. We were immediately welcomed by the hosts, shown to our seats and introduced to Ruj, our server who presented us with the menu. He was very attentive and personable. The rest of the staff walking though the restaurant seemed content and relaxed. The real pleasure came from watching the chef in the exposed kitchen, which was clean and running efficiently.
The Food
We began our experience with a selection of Fresh Oysters and French Onion Soup, and I am very happy that we did. The oysters were a fresh selection of east and west coast & the French Onion Soup was elevated. It would be difficult to have a reputation as a high end French Bistro if they didn’t get this right, they did not disappoint. The beef broth was absolutely decadent.
For the main, my guest ordered a medium well tenderloin, it was a bit undercooked for his liking, and appeared closer to medium rare then medium well. However, If you ask me, a steak should not be cooked past medium rare, and ruined if past medium, so I guess the chef has the same view as I do. We could have sent it back, and would have been comfortable to do so, but in the end it was still very enjoyable. My meal was very delicious, the chef’s creation of the evening was a baked chicken breast complimented by leaks, mushrooms and hazelnuts. The leaks really gave the chicken an extra boost in juiciness and flavour.
It doesn’t stop there, we ordered the baker’s sampling for desert, a selection of pastries from the boulangerie. A lemon cookie with crumble, a red velvet macaroon and a bite size pistachio cake. I’ve had delicious macaroon’s before but there was something very special about the tenderness of this one, it just melted in my mouth. The bite size pistachio cake was also worth noting, and I must confess a little dirty secret… it was so good we ordered a second plate. It’s true and I am not ashamed of it.
Experience
Overall Cluny Bistro was a very pleasurable experience and one I plan to relive time & time again. It’s the perfect place for a first date and to celebrate a special event. If you’re looking to impress someone and indulge in decadent French cuisine, this is the spot.