Best Seasonal Restaurants in Leaside

Alo is a masterclass in modern fine dining, offering an unforgettable tasting menu experience in the heart of Toronto. From the moment you arrive, the attention to detail is evident—impeccable service, a beautifully curated ambiance, and a menu that seamlessly blends innovation with classic technique. Each dish in the tasting menu is a work of art, showcasing seasonal ingredients with exquisite flavors and textures. The courses flow effortlessly, with highlights ranging from delicate seafood preparations to perfectly executed meats and creative vegetable-forward dishes. Every bite is balanced, refined, and deeply satisfying. Service at Alo is nothing short of exceptional. The waitstaff is attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable about every aspect of the menu, and genuinely passionate about creating a memorable experience. Their ability to anticipate needs and personalize the evening makes the meal even more special. The ambiance is intimate and elegant, with a warm, modern design that makes you feel at ease while still maintaining an air of sophistication. Watching the chefs at work in the open kitchen adds to the experience, highlighting the precision and artistry that goes into every dish. Overall, Alo delivers on every level—flawless food, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that makes the entire experience feel effortless.

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

Dined with a friend, and enjoyed their version of Winterlicious Menu. Food was perfectly prepared, plated and served. Service was attentive and unhurried; our server and those supporting her were exceptional. Restaurant was busy, yet comfortably relaxed. We enjoyed every moment. Looking forward to returning. It’s a beautiful space to enjoy a meal.

We decided to use Winterlicious to try out Aera. First of all the view is amongst the best in North America , overlooking the city with the CN tower and lakes in full view. Truly breathtaking. Our server was highly attentive. We both started with the Beet and Goats Cheese salad which was beautifully presented and bursting with flavour. My wife had the Salmon Pone Bowl with Edamame, Avocado, Quinoa flavoured with ginger and a delicious sauce. I had the Pork Loin Schnitzel with some of the best roasted potatoes I have ever eaten. The star of the meal however was the Sticky Toffee Pudding which came with praline encrusted ice cream, it scored 20 out of 10. From this first experience we have decided to celebrate our anniversary this year with dinner and some nice wine at Aera and to enjoy the full menu experience. I have had the luck through my career to have eaten at many of the worlds finest restaurants, I do not exaggerate when I say I would place Aera in my top 10 for ambience and quality. A real experience

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.