Opened by Toronto native and famed director Ivan Reitman, chef Jonathan Waxman, and restauranteurs Tom and Jordan Bitove of Innov8 hospitality, Montecito Restaurant boasts 12,000 square feet over its two-level dining room, lounge, and outdoor patio, which is split into seven different zones. Montecito’s decor includes an impressive digital wall featuring several 55-inch screens arranged to emulate an arched window. The lounge and dining space, which seats 399, offers a private entrance. It opened in September.
Rasa is one of two new restaurants from the Food Dudes, a Toronto food truck company. Opened in July, the 1,900-square-foot eatery mixes raw materials with modern finishes through hand-built wooden tables, rugged plank-board walls, surround sound, and an open kitchen. It seats 50 indoors or holds 100 for receptions; a 40-seat patio will open next summer.
Thoroughbred Food & Drink opened in September in Richmond Street West with three floors of eclectic culinary experiences including some with kitchen interaction. The 3,200-square-foot space is located in a restored Victorian house across from the Scotiabank Theatre. The main floor seats 55 and has its own DJ booth. On the second floor, which seats 35, wood paneling, brick, and industrial lighting set the tone. A private chef’s table seats 10.
Duke’s Refresher & Bar is a casual spot that opened in December as part of the complex in the new Aura condos at Yonge and Gerrard. The restaurant seats 158 guests; it seats 30 or can hold 60 standing in the aptly titled “Nose Bleed Lounge.” The restaurant itself is decked in true Muskoka cottage style with old road signs, decorative antlers, and comfortable couches.Â
Switch opened in May on Colborne Street downtown. Brick façades, retro arcade games, and leather-upholstered booths give the space an industrial aesthetic. The venue also features two full bars, an open kitchen, and late-night carnival performances. The 3,500-square-foot venue has two floors and holds 240 guests. Eleven V.I.P. booths are available for small parties; buyouts of the full venue are available.
