This somewhat costly Parkdale "find" packs in lovers of Italian fare with its entrees and small plates built around local and sustainable ingredients and complemented by a wine list highlighting Ontario and Italian labels; the cosy space is decorated with neighbourhood and Toronto memorabilia, including old photos; P.S. sibling Bar Salumi is just down the street.

Here the word "local" refers to owners Fabio Bondi and Michael Sangregorio's aspirations to be the go-to local restaurant for Parkdale's influx of educated residents, as well as their commitment to local ingredients and products. The room is small, cozy, and warm, and the walls are lined with Toronto ephemera, like old newspaper headlines of years gone by. On the flipside, there's nothing old... more

Parkdale's latest hot number is part authentic Italian trattoria, part contemporary Toronto. The crowded, convivial room is idiosyncratic, the service pro yet friendly, and the food absolutely fantastic. Chef Fabio Bondi arrives pre-dawn each morning to make stunning fresh pasta such as smoked gnocchi with creamy Taleggio cheese. Vegetables, fish, and meats are often on par with the noodles.... more