The top French eateries in Toronto show off a wide range of strategies to the cuisine that is iconic. Whether you mean to observe with champagne in one of the most upscale dining rooms in this city or have an appetite for moules et frites in a casual bistro setting, these restaurants can accommodate your desires.
Jacques Bistro du Parc
This hidden jewel in Yorkville has been going strong since 1978 serving up exceptional all-day omelettes alongside peppery steaks and roasted racks of lamb. Costs are expectedly high, but the service is attentive enough to make diners feel special.
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Batifole
Batifole's menu may be reasonably priced, but not at the expense of well-executed dishes and sourced wines. Usually thought to be the most legitimate of the French eateries in Toronto, the unpretentious dining room has a backseat to classic dishes like cassoulet and fish stews, which are the principal draw for east side lovers of Gallic cuisine.
L'Avenue Bistro
This Leaside bistro attracts locals outside for moules frites French onion soup, and beef bourguignon, amongst other French classics. The setting is intimate (35 seats), the servers know their wine, and also the owners realize the best way to craft a prototypical French dining experience. Bonus points given for the brunch choices.
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La Palette
Once a staple in Kensington Market, La Palette looks right at home in its pitch-perfect bistro. Horse tartare is again a fixture as well as prized French cuisine like escargot and foie gras. An extensive collection of wine is eschewed in favour of a beer list that is enormous on both international and local picks.
Jules Bistro & Cafe
The prix fixe menu, which offers choices like steak frites, onion soup, and creme brulee for $25, is a big draw only at that informal bistro on Spadina north of Richmond. Itis a well-known lunch and dinner alternative during the week.
Le Select Bistro
This bistro on Wellington remains the go to destination for many Toronto diners trying to satiate their internal Francophile. Chef Albert Ponzo has all the usual suspects covered - steak frites, bouillabaisse, boudin noir, etc. - but presents them with an air of sophistication that justifies the not-so-bistro-like prices.
Colette
Found at the bottom of the Thompson Hotel, this restaurant is a bastion for classic French fare with a substantial focus on seafood. The menu is abundant with opportunities to drink champagne while knocking oysters back and revelling in bowls of lobster bouillabaisse.
http://amalficoastrestaurant.ca/
Alo
This third floor eatery at Queen and Spadina is scrupulous service, but in addition a temple to fine dining where haute cuisine is fit not merely by the innovative decor. The tasting menu offers several varieties for each of five classes in addition to complimentary surprises from the kitchen on the way.
Bonjour Brioche
This east side breakfast area serves up a menu featuring sandwiches assembled on fresh baguettes, tarts, and quiches and prevails the skill of baking that is French. As brunch crowds from near and far flock here to fill through to the delicious croque madam featuring ham and gruyere on brioche crowned using a fried egg be prepared to queue up on weekends.
