Amuse-Bouche

Absolutely Outstanding. The Best! Indescribable!

Amuse -Bouche has been known as one of the 10 best restaurants in Toronto. Tuesday evening has become Tapas Tuesday. What a brilliant concept. Wine is $5.00 a glass and is served from a sleek well designed carafe. All tapas items are $10.00. Cheese and dessert suggestions are $5.00. The portions are small but the food is so fantastic that you will be satisfied. I think Elaine and I are attempting to eat in every great restaurant in this city. We were both pleased beyond expectations with this choice. We ordered 3 tapas selections to share and one each for personal pleasure.

I couldn’t even tell you which I loved best because each one was better than the next. We also conferred with the delightful couple sitting beside us. They also were in ecstasy over the food. It didn’t even bother us that we were slightly older (a little more than slightly) than anyone else. The place was jumping and had such positive energy.

The servers were all fantastic. They were friendly, patient and oh so lovely. The room is charming. The red walls have a glow. Several paintings added a touch of class to the walls. The ambiance comes from the crowd. Elaine commented to me that all the patrons had a happy look. It was true. No downers here.

Our pleasure began with the Petite- Amuse Bouche that was offered. A little white fish appetizer was served on a crostini with a delicate sauce. The serving was on a tiny rectangle white plate. Each offering was on a different shaped white plate. The presentation was lovely. Each tapas is served separately and with some time in between. This allowed us to savor each plate and to take our time in a long dining process.

The ‘Matchbox’ Baby Beet Salad’ came first. It was served with caramelized hazelnuts, and greens. The flavor burst in my mouth and we both agreed we were in for a ‘great ride.’

The Ontario Pea and Fresh Asparagus Ravioli was magic to the palate. It was served with a seared scallop with beurre blanc. I don’t usually like scallops. This was so unusual and so fantastic. Two courses down and so far a perfect score.

Elaine ordered the BC Sockeye Salmon Ceviche with cucumber sorbet and soya nuts. We were running out of proper adjectives to describe the wonder of this great feast. My personal selection was Ontario Pea Soup with mint cream and organic prawns. The soup was like velvet and had that fresh pea taste. The shrimps were grilled and had some spice flavor that made them succulent and flavorful.

The Field Carrot Gnocchi was served with a parmesan hollandaise and baby vegs. The gnocchi were miniature in size and melted in my mouth. I have never seen Elaine and I so quiet during a meal. We were so busy savoring every flavor.

We admired the Nova Scotia Salt- Cured Haddock Cakes served at the next table. It is on my list for next time.

The desserts looked great but how many calories can one enjoy at one time. Elaine and I will have trouble finding a new dining spot to match the excellence of Amuse- Bouche. They are even considerate enough to have the bottom step lit up for your safety. They do think of everything. The little individual flower vases at the tables were so dainty and colorful. Every detail was thought out. You know they care and want you to have a special experience. The local produce was most appreciated. It makes such a difference in the flavor. This restaurant is a must.