Paramour

Paramour 94 Ossington Ave. 416 953 2356

It was love at first sight when I entered Paramour. This newest kid on the block is a total winner in every way. It has only been opened since October. No wonder it is such a success. Laura Malin, the amazing young talented chef, trained with Jamie Kennedy. She produces works of art in that hot kitchen.

Large photos of female faces are hung throughout the restaurant. The women are gorgeous and the pictures very dramatic. They are a cause for conversation if you aren’t raving about the food. The large fans on the ceiling are a creative work of art. They have an art deco look. Each blade is shaped like a petal. On the wooden bar is an espresso machine that must be 1 meter in height. It is silver in color and also most attractive.

Monique was our server. She was as attractive as any of the girls on the wall. Her smile would melt a piece of ice. She was charming and a real asset to the restaurant.

Helen and Bob recommended this restaurant and I am so grateful to them. Even better they joined me on this gourmet trip. Every bite was enjoyed. I want to rename this place Sinful, Decadent and Delicious.

The foccacia bread was light and delicious. The eggplant and caramelized onion dip was so good that we had to order a second round. We were shameless this evening.

We shared the Roasted Corn & Jalapeno Hush Puppies served with chipotle mayonnaise.($10.00) We couldn’t believe the portion. 6 very large balls were considered one serving. The corn and jalapeno combination was like ambrosia. A small piece of deep fried jalapeno pepper was placed on the plate as a garnish. We even devoured that.

Helen ordered the Maple Mustard Glazed Ontario Lamb Chops.($32.00) The presentation in a large white bowl was most picturesque. Helen raved about the tender tasty meat. It was served with a snap pea and bean sauté. She also loved the roasted rosemary smashed potatoes.

Bob enjoyed his Steak Frites.($32.00) It was the largest steak I have seen. The potatoes were on a side plate and sautéed mushrooms were also served. I don’t know how we managed to eat everything and kept sending raves back to the kitchen.

I opted for the Vegetarian Plate.($22.00) A large Portobello mushroom had a reduced balsamic flavor. Outstanding. I have never heard of farro. Apparently it is one of the oldest grains. It looks like pearl barley and tastes like a risotto. It was cooked and flavored perfectly.

We didn’t have room so we have promised ourselves a return visit for the dessert. Will it be the Monique? It is a fudge brownie with espresso frosting, vanilla ‘crema’ and cinnamon sugar dust.

The Davide is a cheese plate featuring artisanal Canadian cheeses. The house made crackers and seasonal fruit compote complete this delight. All desserts are $9.00

It is rare to have a dining experience that is so perfect. All three of us were enraptured with every bite.

After dinner we took a look at the back room. It has one large table that would comfortably seat 8-10 people. The bright colored walls, the chandeliers and the painting give it a special appearance.

I asked about the meaning of the name Paramour. I was told that it should be interpreted as a secret love. I don’t want this restaurant to be a secret any longer. Apparently it isn’t because many tables were taken on this mid-week evening.