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| - I came here with generally low expectations given the poor service that pervades trendy, new, corporate-owned restaurants in Toronto. I have to admit I was wrong. The staff here were warm, friendly and competent. I expected the typical blank, expressionless stare from the hostess, but she was friendly and made conversation while brining us to our table.
The waitstaff was equally competent and every dish was thoroughly explained when presented to the table. The food and presentation was excellent. The restaurant itself is beautiful and it is obvious that no expense was spared. The operation was a little awaked at times but I'm assuming this is just growing pains as the staff settle in. It was not busy at all when we attended so I'm interested to see how smoothly it runs with a packed house. Judging by my experiences so far, I expect everything will work out well into the future.
Also, for such a grand-looking French restaurant, I was a little surprised at the limited wine line. I expected something more. However, corkage is available for $30 a bottle for wine aficionados who have a good selection at home.
I will likely return at some point in the future and possibly up my rating depending on how the operation settles in. My only concern is the location of this restaurant. It will likely become an expense account hotspot -- a place to see and be seen. Unfortunately, this usually results in attracting the typical, classless King West types that frequent restaurants in the neighbourhood. The hotel in which the restaurant is located also seems to be extremely popular with the Gucci-t-shirt/sunglasses-indoors-type, so this will likely detract from the atmosphere. Will this place be a fine dining establishment or a local hot spot? Time will tell, I'm sure.
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