The Chef's House is a restaurant owned and run by the George Brown Culinary and Hospitality programs. Students are able to learn and practice working in an urban restaurant. Learn more here.
It is a fun dining experience with an open kitchen, TV screens in handy spots so you can glimpse some back-of-house action, and communal dining. The first time I went I was lucky enough to be seated next to an expert Fromager, Scott McKenzie - I've never talked so much about cheese in my life and I loved it!
The Chef's House has regular lunch and dinner service but once a month a Wednesday is special. The dinner is a set menu, accompanied by wine, and are based on a theme. These nights are called "Rising Star Dinners" and last night ours featured HOOKED Inc.
HOOKED is a different fish store, supplying Toronto with fish directly from the source (and sometimes directly from the boat!) - all sustainable or responsibly grown. This place is on my to-go-to list - especially since it sounds like they offer tasty fish tacos! You can find them in Leslieville and Kensington, open Tuesday - Sunday.
I've rambled long enough - to the meal.
Upon sitting we were offered champagne, oysters topped with horse radish and apple, and a delicious tuna bite. The champagne or Prosecco was delicious, soft and sweet - I'll be on the look out for it the next time I'm in need of bubbly.
The bread basket - always a must for my Dad and something I try to resist - was too good to pass up.
A large, plump seared Weathervane scallop resting on a sweet corn sauce, with dried cherry tomatoes.
Butter poached lobster frisee salad.
Lake Erie Pickerel, baby leeks, and crispy bacon.
Ending on a sweet note - lemon tart with orange sorbet. Lemon tart is not my most favourite but this was quite nice. I loved the orange sorbet though.
I highly recommend experiencing a Rising Star Dinner at The Chef's House. You can see the upcoming ones on their website - I'm looking forward to December when Fromager Scott McKenzie is hosting a cheese dinner!
