There’s something to be said about the connection between food and travel, and a new Toronto restaurant, Iris, has built a menu that brings guests on a culinary experience inspired by the journey that led to its opening.
Iris’s team works with local, seasonal ingredients and goods imported from France to transform traditional recipes into signature dishes, with every detail — from the food to the drink to the photos inside the space — carefully selected to reflect the journey to the restaurant’s opening.
The French country dishes meet a Provencal-inspired beverage program, which includes zero-proof options, to create a selection that’s true to the region and bursting with both charm and flavour. It’s also diverse in its ability to accommodate dietary restrictions, ensuring that every person who walks through the doors feels welcome and satisfied.
The menu itself is perfectly balanced, and the influence of industry veteran Romain Avril — who was tapped to consult on the menu — is apparent. Brunch options include a Parisian ham benedict, a croque madame and a salade Nicoise, whereas dinner options include escargots bourguignon, coq au vin and steak tartare.
Those looking for the signature dishes are in for options like the L’Iris oyster flight (which includes oysters from the Maritimes and France alike), a vegan sweet potato gratin and a duck burger, and a hearty meal can be finished with a sweet treat like a lavender creme brulee. The menu also includes daily selections to enhance the authentic French feel.
Inside, opulent wallpaper meets light flooring and banquette seating to create a vibe that’s equal parts modern and European bistro, reflective of the menu’s ethos. And natural lighting flows through the space to enhance the neighbourhood feel.
Iris is open for dinner Mondays through Thursdays and is open for both brunch and dinner Fridays through Sundays. The restaurant is located at 2256 Bloor Street West in Bloor West Village.
