Best Cozy Restaurants in Leaside

Today was wintery and cold with a blowing wind. A day to be inside. A day for lunch at the Amsterdam. As always, the staff at the front door were welcoming and efficient, directing us to a table for two beside the fireplace. Bonus! Samantha (Sam) was our server today. She was friendly and chatty and seemed pleased to see us. We ordered “our usual”, as regulars to the Amsterdam (perhaps we are boring) and without much delay we were enjoying our fish and chips (for her) and the Tai chicken curry (for me), washed down with Diet Coke and an Amsterdam Blonde. The food was hot and nicely presented, particularly the curry, resting on a palm leaf in a custom earthenware (?) dark bowl. The beer, even on a cold day, was great. Although there are giant screen TVs in one section of the dining area showing (today) live tennis, the sounds and images were not intrusive. Ditto the musical ambiance. Although I would prefer NO music in a restaurant, the Amsterdam’s choice was reasonable acceptable and allowed for an audible conversation (I often wonder if the “music” in restaurants, or the grocery store, is targeting the customers or the staff). No desert today. Stuffed. But there was a little room for a cappuccino before paying the bill. Goodbyes from Sam who provided great service and who maintained a pleasant chatty presence throughout today’s encounter. We will be back. Jack H Toronto

Love Cluny - such a beautiful space and service is always amazing (I've coincidently been there 3x in 2025 -- family brunch, dinner with friend group, valentine's day with hubby -- all experiences were top notch. Although its a large open space it doesn't seem to get loud and still feels intimate and romantic, if that's what you're looking for. Thanks to the Cluny team.

The minute you enter Linny’s you know a lovely experience awaits! The ambience is gorgeous and service exceptional. From the menu, we chose the Friday Evening Special option as a way to taste many house favourites. So many delicious items!!! A tiny disappointment … our steak was chewy and more fat than protein. It was an expensive evening but one we all thoroughly enjoyed. A venue to put on the list for special occasions.

What a fantastic first experience! The atmosphere was very chic while also feeling serene. The service was great! Our server was incredibly knowledgeable and attentive. Finally, the food was delicious! The veal carpaccio is a must and the pasta (snow crab) and seafood platter were succulent.

The overall experience was great! They were very accommodating. The bill was very high for the food amount thats the only draw back. Everything else was what I hoped for. Beautiful setting, amazing staff!