I had the chance to enjoy the DEQ terrace today with a friend (enjoying it after a TIFF movie).
What a great place. Wonderfully comfortable chairs outdoors - such a nice private space and great ambiance. We enjoyed some white wine and prosecco and the crab dip.
The crab dip was one of the best we have ever had, and the drinks wonderful and cold.
I have to say - the Ritz has "it" right. The "it" being service. We went in and the front bar was closed so the concierge escorted us to DEQ and helped us find a table. Then Megan looked after us for the whole time we were there. She did a fantastic job (thanks Megan!).
We had actually seen a movie at TIFF Lightbox and tried to get a drink at the Luma bar afterwards and after sitting for a while at the bar being totally ignored, we left and went to the Ritz. Best move we ever made!!
Folks -- this place is in the same price cat as Luma or any other of the nice bars like Canoe, or Bymark and so if that is the kind of spot you enjoy then try out DEQ, you won't be sorry!
We'll back and it won't need to be during TIFF either!