Escape to an enchanting dining experience nestled in the heart of Toronto at Cellar Door Restaurant. Step inside and be transported by the elegant ambiance, reminiscent of a hidden wine cellar with its exposed brick, soft candlelight, and rich wood accents. Peruse a thoughtfully curated menu that harmonizes classic French techniques with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, crafted by our passionate culinary team. From the delicate seared scallops with truffle risotto to the succulent rack of lamb with mint chimichurri, each dish is a masterpiece that tantalizes the senses. Let our knowledgeable sommeliers guide you through an extensive wine list featuring rare vintages and boutique labels, perfectly paired to elevate your meal. Whether you’re seeking an intimate dinner for two or a private event in our exclusive Wine Room, Cellar Door Restaurant invites you to indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey that will leave you captivated.
Appetizers and Small Plates
Seasonal Specials
Cellar Door Restaurant’s seasonal appetizer menu is a testament to the culinary team’s creativity and dedication to showcasing the finest local ingredients. This spring, indulge in the delicate flavors of our asparagus and truffle tartare, featuring tender spears of asparagus, shaved black truffles, and a silky quail egg yolk, all nestled atop a crisp potato chip. For a taste of the sea, opt for our seared scallop with pea puree and crispy pancetta, a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and savory notes that will tantalize your taste buds.
As the seasons change, so do our offerings. In the summer, cool off with our refreshing watermelon and feta salad, drizzled with a mint-infused olive oil and topped with toasted pine nuts. When autumn arrives, warm up with our roasted butternut squash soup, garnished with a swirl of crème fraîche and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds. And in the winter, cozy up to our decadent foie gras terrine, accompanied by a spiced apple chutney and brioche toast points.
No matter the season, our knowledgeable staff is always on hand to suggest the perfect wine pairings to elevate your dining experience.
Perennial Favorites
Cellar Door’s perennial favorites showcase the restaurant’s commitment to exquisite small plates that tantalize the senses. The Wagyu Beef Tartare, hand-cut and delicately seasoned with truffle oil and quail egg, is a prime example of their culinary finesse. Another standout is the Seared Foie Gras, served atop a buttery brioche and accompanied by a luscious fig compote, creating a harmonious interplay of rich flavors.
For seafood aficionados, the Lobster Croquettes are a must-try. Succulent lobster meat is enveloped in a crisp, golden exterior and paired with a zesty lemon aioli, offering a delightful contrast of textures. The Grilled Octopus, charred to perfection and drizzled with a vibrant romesco sauce, is another dish that keeps diners returning for more.
Vegetarians will delight in the Roasted Heirloom Carrots, a colorful medley of tender carrots, accented with aromatic za’atar spices and nestled atop a bed of silky labneh. The Wild Mushroom Risotto, crafted with a blend of foraged mushrooms and creamy arborio rice, is an earthy and comforting dish that showcases the kitchen’s expertise in elevating simple ingredients.
These perennial favorites are a testament to Cellar Door’s ability to create memorable dining experiences through impeccable technique, premium ingredients, and innovative flavor combinations.
Entrees
From the Land
Embark on a culinary journey through the rich, fertile lands surrounding Cellar Door Restaurant. Our skilled chefs have forged relationships with local farmers and purveyors to bring you the finest, ethically-sourced meats and poultry. Savor the succulent flavor of our grass-fed beef tenderloin, expertly grilled and complemented by a velvety red wine reduction. Experience the delicate texture of our free-range chicken breast, pan-seared to perfection and served atop a bed of seasonal vegetables. For a truly indulgent treat, indulge in our slow-braised lamb shank, its tender meat falling off the bone and melting in your mouth. Each dish is a testament to the quality and care put into the ingredients, from the lush pastures where the animals graze to the artful preparation in our kitchen. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to guide you through the nuances of each dish, suggesting the perfect wine pairing to elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re a devoted carnivore or simply appreciate the art of expertly prepared meat, Cellar Door Restaurant’s “From the Land” offerings are sure to satisfy your discerning palate. Join us for an unforgettable culinary adventure that celebrates the bounty of the land and the skill of our passionate chefs.
From the Sea
From the depths of the ocean to your plate, Cellar Door Restaurant’s seafood offerings are a true testament to the bounty of the sea. Our expert chefs have curated a selection of the freshest fish and shellfish, sourced from sustainable fisheries and local purveyors.
For a delightful start, indulge in our Citrus-Cured Salmon Tartare, a delicate blend of wild-caught salmon, tangy citrus, and aromatic herbs, served with crisp crostini. The Saffron-Poached Lobster Tail, accompanied by a velvety cauliflower purée and a vibrant herb oil, is a luxurious treat that showcases the natural sweetness of the crustacean.
Our signature entrée, the Pan-Seared Scallops, features succulent diver scallops expertly seared to golden perfection, nestled atop a bed of silky parsnip purée and adorned with a medley of seasonal vegetables. The delicate flavors are enhanced by a drizzle of white truffle oil, adding an opulent touch to this exquisite dish.
For a heartier option, the Grilled Swordfish Steak is a superb choice. The meaty, firm-textured fish is skillfully grilled and served alongside a zesty tomato-caper relish and a creamy polenta cake, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Seafood aficionados will delight in our Seafood Bouillabaisse, a classic French stew brimming with an assortment of fresh fish, shellfish, and aromatic vegetables in a saffron-infused broth. Served with garlic-rubbed toasts and a classic rouille sauce, this dish transports you to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.
No matter which seafood dish you choose, our knowledgeable staff will be happy to recommend the perfect wine pairing to elevate your dining experience. From crisp, mineral-driven whites to bold, full-bodied reds, our extensive wine list offers a wealth of options to complement the flavors of the sea.
Desserts and Digestifs
After an exquisite meal at Cellar Door, indulge in our decadent dessert offerings that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Our pastry chef crafts each dessert with meticulous attention to detail, using only the finest, locally-sourced ingredients. Savor the rich, velvety texture of our dark chocolate torte, adorned with a delicate gold leaf and accompanied by a scoop of house-made vanilla bean ice cream. For a lighter option, try our lemon meringue tart, featuring a buttery, flaky crust filled with tangy lemon curd and topped with pillowy, toasted meringue.
To elevate your dessert experience, our sommelier has carefully curated a selection of digestifs that perfectly complement each sweet creation. Sip on a glass of vintage port, its deep, complex flavors harmonizing beautifully with the dark chocolate torte. For a more unconventional pairing, opt for a snifter of XO Cognac alongside the lemon meringue tart, the spirit’s smooth, warming notes balancing the dessert’s bright acidity.
If you prefer a liquid dessert, our bar offers an array of premium spirits and liqueurs. Indulge in a glass of 20-year-old Tawny Port, its nutty, caramel notes lingering on the palate long after the last sip. Or, savor a pour of Sauternes, a lusciously sweet French dessert wine with hints of apricot, honey, and vanilla. No matter your choice, our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the perfect pairing to conclude your unforgettable dining experience at Cellar Door.
Private Dining and Special Events
Cellar Door Restaurant offers an array of enchanting private dining rooms, each designed to create an intimate and memorable experience for your special occasion. From the rustic charm of the Wine Cellar, adorned with exposed brick walls and vintage bottles, to the elegant sophistication of the Champagne Room, featuring a stunning crystal chandelier, these spaces provide the perfect backdrop for celebrations, corporate events, or simply a gathering of friends and family.
For a truly immersive culinary journey, reserve the Chef’s Table, where you’ll have a front-row seat to the artistry and passion of our culinary team. Engage with the chefs as they craft a bespoke, multi-course menu tailored to your preferences, paired with exceptional wines selected by our sommelier. This exclusive experience is perfect for epicureans seeking to indulge in the finest flavors and techniques.
Elevate your special occasion with our carefully curated packages, designed to ensure a seamless and unforgettable event. From personalized menus and wine pairings to floral arrangements and custom-printed menus, our dedicated events team will attend to every detail, allowing you to relax and revel in the moment.
Keep an eye out for our upcoming wine dinners and tasting menus, where our chefs collaborate with renowned winemakers and purveyors to create one-of-a-kind gastronomic adventures. These exclusive events showcase the best of seasonal ingredients, innovative techniques, and rare vintage wines, offering an unparalleled opportunity to expand your palate and deepen your appreciation for the culinary arts.
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday, hosting a corporate retreat, or simply seeking an intimate space to reconnect with loved ones, Cellar Door Restaurant’s private dining rooms and special occasion packages promise an experience that will be etched in your memory for years to come.