We came upon Niko's after doing an 'Italian Places' search; and boy am I glad we did.
Of course, Niko's has pretty excellent food. The caprese salad has melt-in-your-mouth bocconcini cheese, the penne con vodka is creamy and deliciously mushroom-y and even without putting sugar in it, my latte still tasted sweet and fluffy; but the reason I will be back to Niko's, and the reason I will probably continue to go, is Niko himself.
The owner of the bistro, Niko Meletic, hails from (of course) Italy and move to Canada to open a little bistro in Kensington. He is everything you love about Italians, warm, welcoming, expressive and makes wonderful food.
He went to every table in his tiny restaurant and greeted each guest with a handshake or a laugh; and when we left, shook our hands, thanked us saying he hoped we'd be back. You just don't get that kind of attention in Canadian restaurants. He entertained us, tended to us and made sure we ate all of our pasta.
So to answer your question Niko; yes, my food was delicious and, yes, I will be back to your bistro (even if it's just to talk to you again).
T.