Toronto’s celebrity chefs pick the best new restaurants: Hemant Bhagwani, Canada Reviews

Toronto’s dining scene has been a whirlwind of dynamic, diverse and eclectic this year, as evidenced by our curated list of the 12 best new restaurants. We believe in getting the real scoop from insiders, which is why we tapped into the city’s culinary elite, from Michelin stars to celebrity chefs, to bring you their top picks.

Next on our list: Celebrity chef, sommelier and restaurateur Hemant Bhagwani. We asked him to share his thoughts on the best new addition to they city’s dining scene. Keep reading to discover his exciting selection.

Chef Bhagwani’s Pick: Azura

“Blind tasting menus is my kind of a place,” chef Bhagwani recently told us. ” I love surprises  and this red brick wall vibe with green velvet seating is magical.

Azura

They said tasting menus were dead. And then Toronto met chef Adam Ryan. Way out in Greektown, Ryan’s blind Mediterranean tasting menu ($128 for the whole experience, $72 for two-thirds), is turning Toronto dining on its head. Azura, the east side’s gastronomic offspring of Alo and Patrick Kriss, serves up halibut, chickpea fritters and other French- and Spanish-inspired dishes with Turkish and African twists. The dynamic creations feature unexpected flavour pairings, each dish uniquely described in just 10 words. Dining at Azura isn’t just about filling the belly — it’s an exploration of the senses. The open kitchen adds a dramatic flair, while ambient lighting bathes the space in a captivating glow. With the arrival of warmer weather, the expansive windows open wide, infusing the atmosphere with the lively energy of the Danforth. The concept is fun and daring, and the room has that unmistakable frisson — look around you, we’re all foodies here. 162 Danforth Ave.

FUN FACT: Guests receive a copy of the dated menu as a fun keepsake.To find out which restaurant Michelin-recongnized chef Anna Chen picked, click here. And for chef Michael Bonacini’s pick, click here.