rev:text
| - For months, I've been craving a good duck breast: one of my favorite dishes (tragically, unavailable back home in Phoenix, AZ). Woods did far more than simply satisfy that craving. They provided me with the perfect dining experience. The restaurant is tucked away on a side street that doesn't see much foot traffic. This makes it a bit more difficult to find, but also contributes to its mystique. When I arrived, I was warmly greeted by a very attractive hostess, who also served as my waitress. She sat me in a location which gave me a perfect view of the interesting, and tasteful, contemporary decor. Being a Monday night, it wasn't at all busy; but the service was spectacular: I had both the hostess and another waiter taking care of me, ensuring that I had all that I wanted, and more. Having decided my selection in advance (I did quite a bit of Yelp research trying to find the ultimate Toronto duck), I ordered right away. "No appetizer needed" I said, "I'm just here for the duck." Well, they brought me a small complementary appetizer anyway: a small cube of watermelon with goat cheese, arugula, and something else I can't recall. It was most refreshing. Although I must admit that the duck was not the best I've ever had -- an honor which goes to a spectacular corner pub in Nancy, a small town in northeastern France -- it was a close second. The staff tempted me with dessert, but I rejected the temptation, being only in the mood for espresso. The chef clearly doesn't accept rejection well: yet again, they brought out a small complementary dish, this time it was a chocolate truffle with walnuts, presented on a beautiful stone slate.I left the restaurant completely blown away. I will certainly return to Woods the next time I'm Toronto: their combination of flavor and aesthetics has set a new standard.
|