This place is my pick for favorite restaurant I've been in the last year. We sat at the bar which is preferable to the tight tables that don't allow for any privacy. But every Toronto restaurant seems to have that problem nowadays to pay their exorbitant rent. Every single dish was spot on. Very inventive take on dishes. Service was great, we got a free (and delicious) dark and stormy due to another patron having to make a reservation somewhere else. That works for me! The other cocktails were great too although I prefer a bit of a heavier pour. The dishes we tried:
1) truffle gnudi: We are both mushroom fiends and this was a total winner. The beautiful sear on the outside of the gnudi combined with the creamy ricotta made for a great textural contrast. The amazing walnut pesto complemented the mushroomy goodness perfectly.
2) burger: delicious and juicy on a warm brioche bun but this was my partner's so I only had one bite
3) short rib steak: the yummy pho dip and schmaltz potatoes were a creative addition to the delectable steak. It's these unique twists that is the reason one spends $ to go out. Definitely couldn't do this at home
4) sticky bun: incredible! The candied walnuts (or is it pecans) on top elevate the incredible doughy goodness
5) weekly dessert special of lemon curd crepe: so good and the little bit of citrus tartness helped balance out a fairly heavy meal
It is so rare for every dish to hit it out of the ballpark but Rasa did exactly that! We will be back for sure to try out the rest of the dishes!