When Oliver & Bonacini Restaurants' Canoe, atop the TD Bank Tower, had to close to update its plumbing system, the owners decided it was also time for the restaurant's first major design rehaul since it opened 15 years ago. Lindsey Anacleto of Anacleto Design was tapped to update the space, which reopened on January 31.
To open up the 140-seat restaurant, Anacleto lowered seating backs and removed potential view obstructions, while adding a charcoal soapstone bar, chef's rail, side stands, and new furnishings like walnut tables and mohair-covered Saarinen chairs.
“The restaurant is about Canadiana and we want to subtly project that,” said Paul Martin, Canoe's general manager, pointing out artist contributions to the restaurant's makeover. Caribou etchings based on the Canadian quarter flank the new bar, and branch chandeliers by Toronto designers the Brothers Dressler hang from the ceiling.
For another artistic touch, Unit Five added two wall installations of paper-thin sheet metal, one of them a map of Canada in the 65-seat private dining area, which offers lakeside views. The area, which can be used as one or two rooms, is now equipped with new soundproofing and engineered walnut floors.
Chef Anthony Walsh's seafood-focused menu offers dishes like maple cured B.C. salmon, Qualicum Beach scallops, Purdy's deepwater char, and tea-smoked duck breast.
Canoe continues to be available for buyout on weekends.
