Hawthorne TO is the newest restaurant from Chef Eric Wood, formerly of the ever-popular Fabarnak http://www.yelp.ca/biz/fabarnak-restaurant-and-catering-toronto#hrid:nJfEiH26IWnXMy68_s0rKA. As anyone who has ventured to Fabarnak knows that Chef Wood's fare is thoughtful, creative and draws inspiration from around the Globe.
Hawthorne TO, further south along church at Richmond, is all that Fabarnak was and then some. Wood's classic interpretation on the Bento has followed him to Hawthorne, as the "four square lunch" - a TREMENDOUS value'd tasting meal at $16. While everything I have tried has been outstanding, the true standouts are the wok-fried edamame and the Lemongrass, Nam-Pla Ribs which might get my vote as the most intelligent and delicious dish of the YEAR. Without exaggeration - I have never seen anything like it.
Chef Wood's focus is on social change initiatives, as well as presenting local and truly inspired foods. As a chef he is completely underrated, and one of the best in the city, no contest. Hawthorne TO is fairly priced and completely worth the trip. Be sure to check out their house-made sodas for a special treat.
Open now for lunch, open for dinner in the new year. This place will get popular FAST so get in while you can.
Five, very enthusiastic stars.