You know you're having a terrific meal when most of the conversation at dinner is about the food. I can't say enough about Woodlot. Except that it may be my new favourite restaurant in Toronto (sorry, Tabule, I still love you!).
Every aspect of our experience tonight was terrific. The host was warm and friendly and she seated us even though we showed up early to our reservation. Our server was super knowledgeable and steered us onto some wickedly good drink choices, including a red belgian sour beer that was super tasty.
And the food...SO. GOOD.
Homemade sourdough that was melty and chewy at the same time.
Starters: A light asparagus hazelnut tart that had a subtle punch of mustard and marscapone cheese. Incredible mushrooms smokey from a brick oven with pickled beets and wild rice. Both light, beautifully balanced and shareable.
Mains: A lightly curried (?) tofu pie was so much more refined than I can describe. Light filo and sweet/savoury filling that was layered and warming. I was sad when it was done. The stuffed celery root was interesting and thoughtful, although didn't have quite the depth of the pie. We also had a warm kale side salad that had a hearty acidity from what tasted like a high-quality apple cider vinegar, soaked raisins and toasted almond slivers with pickled shallots. Crazy good.
Dessert: smoked chocolate cheesecake with toasted marshmallow and cherries. Um...really what is there to say? It was f-ing delicious. And kudos to the chef for making homemade marshmallow without gelatin so vegetarians can partake.
Woodlot is thoughtful unpretentious food that is worth every penny they charge. I can't wait to go back
Vegetarian score: 10/10!!! They have a freakin' vegetarian menu that is every bit as good as the meat one. I love this chef. Truly.