3.5 stars
Bruda is a cute, unpretentious European resto in the space previously occupied by Negroni and later, Carpano. Not sure why restaurants here have not done well? Anyways, the interior looks similar to before but brighter and more open: hardwood floors, white walls with some artwork, simple furniture, tea lights at your table with an open-kitchen concept. I had been meaning to try this place, and when I saw a Groupon for a 3-course dinner (($40 for 2 people, or 50% off regular price), I jumped!
Came on a weeknight with a friend. It was about half full, nice and quiet enough to have a good conversation. I had:
- Lollo Rossa Salad: celery leaf, taro root, buttermilk avocado dressing. Loved this! Simple and refreshing. The dressing was just right, a little creamy but not too thick. The taro root was crispy and lightly salted.
- Chef-rolled Gnoccchi: delicious! Super-soft and fluffy, served in a buttery broth with leek, brussel leaves, and burrata. Burrata with anything = amazing. Portion size was good. I was full but not stuffed. Room for...
- Chocolate tart: the only low point for me. The texture was great. The dark chocolate filling was creamy smooth and the crust wasn't too hard. But the flavour was a bit bland. My DC had the vanilla lavender gelato, which was much better.
- Decent wine list with a prosecco and a handful whites and reds available by the glass. I had an Ontario Riesling.
Service was personable, attentive and unhurried. We ended up staying long after we finished our desserts, to chat over espressos (which were great, too and they have decaf). I would be back for sure. The menu is small but looks yummy. There's a fish stew, homemade sausage, and pasta carbonara that all sound promising...