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Canada Free Press Restaurant Guide

Donatello Restaurant

A Landmark in Downtown Toronto

Donatello
A landmark on Elm St.

Donatello Restaurant

37 Elm St.
Toronto
416-595-5001
Hours:
Monday - Friday
Lunch 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Dinner 5 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Friday: 5-12
Saturday: 5-12

By The Cooks Are Coming 2 Dinner

The Cooks had the pleasure of visiting a Landmark on Elm Street, for Home cooked Italian Food at Donatello.

Charm and Elegance come together here where the Fine Dining experience is not to be missed. Located at 37 Elm, this quaint, family operated restaurant is between Bay and Yonge Streets in the heart of downtown Toronto close to many attractions, including the Delta Chelsea Hotel.

Upon our arrival, we met the delightful owners Giacomo (Jack) and wife, Filomena. They have owned and operated this business for years, and made us feel like we had just come to their home for a meal. We had the pleasure of being served by Kaiser who was most knowledgeable about the entire menu and the wine selections. He made our choices easy.

Our hosts made several suggestions for the evening and we placed ourselves totally in their hands – sampling many dishes; we were not disappointed.

We began with Bruschetta, a great beginning to any Italian feast. The next suggestion was the Baked Goat Cheese salad that combined very interesting flavours of grilled pineapple, eggplant, tomato and cheese, piled atop balsamic greens with roasted red peppers. This salad was an epicurious delight to look at, as well as eat. It would make a great, light lunch.

The Cooks were then treated to sample another starter of Shrimps Alla Diavola, shrimps in a spicy garlic oil – very light and an ample serving to share.

Before our main entrees arrived, it was suggested we try the pasta special. (There were a few, however this one is well known and does not last…) It was fresh Ravioli, stuffed with crab, goat cheese and roasted red pepper in a medley sauce mixture of pesto, tomato and cream, rose sauce. – Absolutely wonderful and not to be missed if on the daily special!

It is hard to believe, but the best was still yet to come as The Cooks dined on our all time favorite; Rack of Lamb. This incredible dish was prepared in a Mint Port sauce, very unique. A healthy serving of a full rack, displayed in a pool of the most delicious succulent sauce, - it was extraordinary, and we highly recommend it. This main dish is served with choice of pasta, or potato & fresh vegetable medley.

Donatello offers an extensive menu, along with daily specials for appetizers, pasta, veal, and chicken. The menu is so diverse, it will satisfy any appetite. This is accompanied by an extensive wine list that is varied in selection and price. In addition, to the dessert menu, Donatello offers a fine quality selection of Port and Scotch.

Donatello; an excellent choice, for intimate dining, business lunches or large gatherings. Casual, yet romantic, there is soft music to set the tone for any dining experience. Seating capacity is approximately 150 with the summer patio open and is available for private functions.

The Cooks are certainly looking forward to summer dining on the open patio. See you there; tell them The Cooks sent you.

Dinner for two with wine will be approximately $150.00.
Hours of operation:
Lunch Mon – Fri 11:30 – 2:30
Dinner Mon – Thur 5 –11, Fri – Sat 5 –12
For reservations call 416-595-5001.
Canada Free Press, CFP Editor Judi McLeod