Creme Brasserie

Crème Brasserie 162 Cumberland St. 416 962 7363

Crème has become the most ‘in spot’ in the Yorkville area. It is in an inner courtyard between Cumberland and Yorkville There is a European flavor sitting in a courtyard nestled between the finest of Yorkville architecture.

General Manager Ricardo Sousa and Chef Ricardo Roque have done an outstanding job in making this restaurant such a hot spot. Just walk by the large patio any summer day. It is always packed. The interior is equally captivating. Best of all is the high quality of the gourmet food.

I was attending a Summerlicious lunch on a most perfect day. The $20.00 Prix Fixe for a 3 course lunch is amazing value.

The Yellow Gazpacho was a delightful refreshing starter. The basil croutons added to the flavor. I wish I had the recipe.

Rilettes Of Smoked Salmon offers salmon mousse with lump fish caviar and a honey mustard cream. The third option on this special menu is the Micro Greens with fresh berries, warm goat’s cheese, pine nuts and maple blossom vinaigrette.

My dining companion and I chose the Grilled Portobello Burger with pesto provolone, and roasted sweet peppers as our main entrée. Chips or a salad are included. I couldn’t eat it all but I certainly gave it a try. We might have opted for the Barbecued Cornish Hen or Striped Bass. Always save room for dessert. I thoroughly enjoyed the Crème Brule. It is Tahitian vanilla custard served with wine soaked plums and a delicious sugar cookie. I relished every spoonful and didn’t think once about the calories.

My dining companion was more diet conscious and savored the fresh flavor of the Assorted Berries prepared in a port wine gastrique. The Cappuccino Parfait was tempting but will wait for another try.

The regular menu is always available and offers a variety of gourmet choices. My favorite salad is a Nicoise.($21.00) It is served with rare seared tuna, sweet peppers, anchovy, potatoes, tomatoes, green beans, olives and eggs. A Daily Omelette is prepared with 3 eggs. It is served with salad or fries.($15.00) Seafood Capelli offers a combination of lobster, calamari, and mussels. Oven cured tomatoes, arugula, and garlic and shrimp broth. ($20.00)

There is something for everyone. The friendly charming servers will make sure you are having a gourmet adventure in the most pleasant environment .Ricardo is so charming and makes every guest feel welcome. I find that the food is fresh and exquisitely prepared. Similar dinner options are always available. It is so great to stroll around Yorkville before or after your gourmet experience. Enjoy!