Restaurant Toronto | Blu Ristorante

What Exactly Is Al Fresco Dining?

As the patio season comes in, people start to crave spending more time outdoors. And the easiest way to do that is to dine out the al fresco way. But what exactly is al fresco dining?

What’s with the term? What is al fresco dining?

Al fresco is an Italian term that means “in the fresh air” or “in the shade.” Dining al fresco simply means eating outside or out in the open air. But you shouldn’t confuse it with going on a picnic and eating at the park while sitting on a blanket. Al fresco dining typically involves comfortable seating, refined tablescapes, and a casual yet party-like atmosphere.

What does al fresco dining include?

Al fresco dining can take many forms and happen anywhere—from cafes and gastropubs to lavish restaurants. But generally, here are the ever-present elements of this type of dining:

Outdoor setting: A defining characteristic of an al fresco dining experience is it takes place out in the open air. So when you dine out and are offered to eat al fresco, you can expect to be seated on a patio, terrace, or rooftop bar.

Warm weather: Restaurants usually offer al fresco during warm weather or patio season. It’s a good way to experience the cheerful weather with your loved ones. Some patios are heated to ensure a good temperature during breezy summer nights.

Casual party-like atmosphere: Patios and terraces for al fresco dining are often decked with lounge furniture, plants, umbrellas, awnings, and other elements that make the space casual and welcoming. These spaces can usually seat ten or more to truly create a party-like atmosphere perfect for hanging out or people-watching.

What are the common al fresco dining ideas?

While restaurants can technically serve any food or drinks al fresco, here are some dining ideas that are perfectly suited to an outdoor setting:

Candlelit dinners: Having a candlelit dinner on a tree-lined patio while gazing at the stars and listening to soothing live music sounds romantic. And that’s exactly what you can get in some patio restaurants in Yorkville. It’s a great dining option for anniversaries and other special occasions with your lovely spouse or partner.
Afternoon tea: There’s nothing more elegant than enjoying your afternoon tea the al fresco way. You can enjoy your tea and biscuits or finger sandwiches while relaxing under the shade of a luxurious-looking parasol on a gorgeous street-level patio.

Special or seasonal menus: Most restaurants create a special menu for their al fresco diners. They use seasonal produce and offer meals perfect for the outdoor setting. These could include summer salads, barbecue classics for sharing, grilled peaches with mascarpone cream, and fruit-filled desserts suitable for the weather.

What are the other benefits of al fresco style dining?

Still on the fence about the al fresco style? Here are a few more reasons to consider it:

It’s relaxing and helps improve your mood.

Dining in the open air improves your mood and helps you relax. After shopping or walking around the neighborhood for hours, stop by one of the patio restaurants nearby. Order a cup of tea or a salad plate, ask to be seated on a patio or rooftop terrace and enjoy the view. You will surely feel relaxed as you hang out and enjoy the al fresco-style dining.

It’s less cramped than indoor dining.

Patios and terraces suited for al fresco dining are often less cramped than indoor restaurants. The tables and chairs are usually spread out to maximize the space. So if you prefer proper social distancing when dining out these days, al fresco dining is perfect for you.

The al fresco style is also conducive for intimate conversations or heart-to-heart talks, given the open space and distance between tables. It’s great for dates and catch-ups with friends.

Food tastes better when enjoyed outside.

We’ve said it: food tasted better when enjoyed outside. It’s all because of the atmosphere—from the open air & lush greenery to chill music and soft lighting. You will surely relish your laidback lunch with friends or dinner dates with your spouse.

Final words

Because of its outdoor setting and casual yet intimate atmosphere, al fresco dining is a good alternative to the traditional indoor dining experience. So as the warm season comes in, maximize your time outside by dining in one of the must-try patio restaurants in your area.

Restaurant Toronto

Private Dining Toronto: How to Choose The Perfect Event Venue

Have an upcoming event in Toronto but not sure how to pick a venue?

If you’re looking for a place in downtown Toronto, there are quite a few Yorkville restaurants with private dining rooms, beautiful patios, and good food.

But before you finalize and reserve a place for the event, you have to keep in mind some vital factors. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the perfect event venue in Toronto.

1. How’s the Ambiance?

The ambiance of the venue sets the mood of the event. Whether it’s a corporate event or a private celebration, you don’t want the venue to be so loud and happening that you can hardly spend quality time with your guests. Look for a place that has a soothing and cheerful atmosphere, where both you and your guests will have a gala time, and the event will be a success.

2. Convenient Location

When you’re choosing a private dining event venue, the location has to be easily accessible for everyone. So try to pick a place that’s situated in a well-connected locality, where there are ample amounts of public transport available. If you have people coming over from different cities, it’s important they can easily navigate the venue without complications.

3. Seating Capacity

Another crucial thing you have to consider is the seating capacity of the place you’re booking. If you have a guest list of 20 people, you don’t need a massive venue—a small one or a specific portion of a larger venue would be sufficient. And likewise, if your event will have a large number of attendees, you need a space that can comfortably accommodate all the people. Before you finalize a venue, take a look at the available space yourself, and inquire with the manager of the venue about its seating capacity.

4. Parking Capacity

Not just seating, you’ll also have to make sure the venue has enough parking space for your guests. It’s always a good idea to have a prior estimate of the number of cars you’d be expecting because a lack of parking area could create a big mess on the day of the event. Check with the venue manager for the parking capacity of the space you’re planning to book.

5. Is It Indoor or Outdoor?

When you’re hosting an event, you can choose either an indoor space or an outdoor space as the venue. Indoor seating or private dining rooms are often the most preferred option, because they keep you protected from unpredictable weather changes, offer privacy, and feel cozier in general. But if the event is during summer or fall and there’s no chance of rain, you could very much enjoy your event under bright sunshine. So first decide whether you’d like to go outdoors or indoors, and then find a suitable place.

6. What’s on the Menu?

A vital part of your event is the food. Before deciding on a venue, know about its catering menu, the cuisines and drinks that they will be serving, and whether you can customize the menu or not. If you’re booking a restaurant, you might speak to the chefs about their specialty dishes that will surely impress your guests.

7. Bonus Tip: Plan in Advance

Be it a personal or corporate event, the key to a successful event is to plan in advance, if possible. From budget to guest list, food, venue, and other logistics—you’ll be able to manage everything perfectly when you have enough time at hand. Moreover, restaurants Toronto with private dining rooms can get reserved quite fast, so the earlier you make your booking, the better.

Private Dining Toronto: Book Blu Ristorante for Events

If you’re looking for Yorkville restaurants with private dining rooms, Blu Ristorante is the best place you can find. Thanks to the beautiful interior, charming ambiance, and lip-smacking authentic Italian food, it has become a popular venue for the corporate events Toronto offices host. Here you get to experience the best private dining Yorkville has to offer, thanks to the mezzanine level that’s ideal for romantic dinners, large gatherings, or any other event.

Read in detail about our private dining facility here, and contact us at [email protected] for making a reservation.

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Outdoor Dining benefits

Have you ever tried outdoor dining? Sure you do. If you are one of the many people who enjoy eating food outside with the people you love while adoring a breathtaking view, then you probably know that feeling of excitement when you hear the words “Alfresco dining”.

Outdoor Dining is not just a fun activity but also offers a long list of benefits. It is a great way to destress and defocus after a long day. Surrounded by various sights, scents, textures, and nature as you share a hearty meal together, alfresco dining is nothing but a perfect experience.

Alfresco comes from the Italian word which loosely means “in the cool air”. Spending time outdoors have great health benefits.

When you combine food with the outdoors, the experience is incredible, but it does not end there. Here are the top reasons you should choose alfresco dining for the most part.

Elevated sensory experience

Outdoor dining provides you with a good view of nature which sparks inspiration, more vigor, and creativity. It is a wonderful treat for your senses. You may also be surprised that most people who choose alfresco dining find food to taste even better because it promotes an elevated sensory experience.

The fresh air outside improves your sense of taste and smell because of its ability to reduce congestion and provide better ventilation.

Being one with nature

Nature benefits our emotional, psychological, and physical health. It improves our mood, reduces feelings of stress, calms down our nerves, and helps us take time out to feel more relaxed. People who spend more time outdoors enjoying the beauty of nature have a happier life.

It can generate joy, creativity, positive emotions, and calmness. It can also help facilitate concentration. Sitting outdoors away from office settings can help you to reset. You will come back to work with new ideas, better focus, and more energy.

If you’ve ever noticed, tiny natural addition to your space such as an aquarium or a plant can already provide a soothing effect. Nature has the power to keep your mind and body healthy. By looking at nature alone, your stress hormones will decrease, your muscle tensions will be eased, your blood pressure and heart rate will be regulated, and your energy levels will increase.

Give yourself a break from the monotony of being cooped inside. Take advantage of the alfresco dining experience to allow your body and mind to relax and recover.

Soaking up the sun

How amazing is the feeling of warm sunshine streaming down on you? This is what alfresco dining can offer you. Between spending hours at work, tending to everyday chores and errands, commuting or driving, and dealing with never-ending stuff that pulls you away from relaxation, it may not be possible at all for you to find a way to soak up all the greatness of the sun.

Eating your breakfast or lunch outdoors, especially in cold months, will allow you to enjoy some sunlight which kickstarts Vitamin D production responsible for our moods and immune systems.

Vitamin D regulates our levels of adrenalin, serotonin, and dopamine. When they are at the right levels, we can keep depression at bay.

Social experience

Outdoor dining also provides an excellent social experience. When someone is enjoying a nice view, great companionship, and luscious food, that person tends to get off the grid to enjoy that moment. The lack of technology for this experience allows for better social interactions.

If you are looking for a romantic restaurant where you and your partner can have alfresco dining, Blu Ristorante is the perfect place to be. Regarded as one of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. You can book a table or a private dining event at Blu Ristorante. Their dishes are truly a chef’s kiss!

Your body functions better

As we have been mentioning, alfresco dining can help you destress. When the body is in a relaxed mode, it is able to process food properly and distribute the nutrients well through the secretion of HCI into the stomach. This secretion, which also has the ability to kill harmful pathogens, does not happen all the time when we eat, especially when the stress hormones in the body are acting up.

The soothing mood of alfresco dining can boost our body’s digestive functions.

Many studies have also shown that replacing natural light with artificial light is linked to higher chances of obesity, diabetes, and other harmful diseases.

It is truly undeniable that alfresco dining is perfect for our mind, body, and soul.

Restaurant Toronto

Top 6 Reasons You Should Try Patio Dining

No matter how stunning the interior of a restaurant is, if it offers patio dining under the sky with greenery to keep you company, there’s hardly anything that can match up to it.

If you haven’t tried the best patios in Toronto yet, this is the best time to go around the city and explore! And if you’re not sure why you should give patio dining a try, we are here to convince you. Because we don’t want you to miss out on this memorable experience!

So without further ado, let’s dive into the top 6 reasons you should try patio dining in Toronto:

1. Enjoying Nature

Who doesn’t love to sit and enjoy their meal amid lush greenery? With patio dining, you get to spend some much-desired time in touch with nature, while also enjoying fantastic hospitality.

Most patios these days are beautifully decorated with plants, flowers, etc. to create a welcoming atmosphere. If the weather is slightly chilly, you could also head to a place that offers heated patio seating.

2. Breaking the Monotony

You can eat at a regular restaurant all around the year, but the allure of patio dining is simply unmissable. When you’re dining outside the boundaries of four walls, you’re breaking free from the monotony of everyday life.

Especially during the summer months, you should head to the patio restaurants in Toronto, and live your best life! Order your choice of cuisine, get some drinks, enjoy live music, and that’s it – fine dining at its finest!

3. Spending Quality Time

There’s no better place to spend quality time with your loved ones than at a patio dining restaurant. Whether you’re on a date, or you’re out and about with friends and family, patio dining allows you to spend quality time together, accompanied by food, drinks, and more.

In short, the patio experience is an entire package – it connects you to your loved ones, and makes sure you have a gala time!

4. Relaxing Ambience

After spending the entire week at your workspace, your heart craves a soothing, relaxing ambiance. And you want to try out a place that takes away all your stress and worries. Well, good news – outdoor patio dining is just the solution you’re looking for.

In most patio restaurants, you’ll be greeted with a warm, calm, yet happening ambiance – one that makes you feel good, instead of stealing away your peace of mind. So if you’re longing for some much-needed relaxing dining experience, it’s time to make a reservation at your favourite patio.

5. Soaking in the Sunshine

Summers don’t last forever in Toronto, so we’ve got to make the most of it while it’s still here! With patio dining, you’ll get to sit under the sun, soak in the goodness of vitamin D, and feel happy inside out.

Sunlight boosts serotonin production in your brain, and as a result, your mood improves, and you feel more energetic and lively. And guess what, exposure to sun rays improves bone health, and also helps you sleep better. So instead of sitting in the usual indoor setup, why not step out and let your body enjoy the benefits of the sun?

6. Perfect for Events

Another reason why you should opt for patio dining is because it’s the perfect way to host an event. Be it your spouse’s birthday or your parents’ milestone anniversary, every celebration feels more special when you celebrate it in a beautiful patio setup.

Delicious food, a beautiful environment, and lots of warmth – your guests will fondly remember the get-together for a long time.

Enjoy the Best Patio Dining Toronto at Blu Ristorante

If you’re in search of the best patio dining Toronto has to offer, Blu Ristorante is exactly what you need.

Located in Yorkville, our USP is the gorgeous patio setup, the grand indoor seating area, and authentic Italian cuisine. Our special attraction is the semi-covered patio that keeps you warm and promises a happy time.

At Blu Ristorante, you can enjoy intimate fine dining, with live music to soothe your senses. So be it for your next dinner date or a private event, don’t forget to get in touch with us. Make your reservation today!

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Top 5 Best Patio Restaurants in Toronto Downtown

Now that the sun is generous in Toronto, it’s time to enjoy all the outdoor stuff you have been putting off. Things like sitting in patio restaurants in Toronto downtown, enjoying the breeze, and appreciating the pleasant weather, there’s quite nothing like it.

Are you looking for the best patio restaurants in Toronto downtown? We got your back.

Best patio Yorkville Toronto Alfresco dining: 5 places you must try

1.Blu Ristorante

If you’re looking for the best patio restaurant in Toronto downtown offers, it has to be Blu Ristorante. Whether you choose to sit on the lush and vibrant patio, wine bar, or indoor area, the place promises a good time. This Italian restaurant’s menu is a perfect balance of classic authentic dishes and contemporary ones, so it appeals to everyone equally. The beautiful ambiance, coupled with live music, makes your dining experience all the more refined and enjoyable.

Location: 90 Avenue Road

2. Falcon SkyBar

Love to enjoy the city’s skyline while relishing your favorite drink and appetizers? Falcon SkyBar would be a great place to spend your weekend evening. Located at the top of Hotel X Toronto, here you’ll get a three-level rooftop (The Perch, The Nest, and The Peak), and a view of the stunning Lake Ontario to keep you company.

Location: 111 Princes’ Blvd

3. Bellwoods Brewery

This Ossington brewery is a great place to chill after a busy workday with a cozy ambiance, easy-going vibe, and a cool patio. The patio seating area looks exceptionally pretty in the evening, with the lights brightening up the lush decor. Besides their wide variety of food, you’ll also enjoy some really good beer here.

Location: 124, Ossington Ave

4. Trattoria Nervosa

To have the best patio dining experience in Yorkville, Toronto, you must visit Trattoria Nervosa. This Italian restaurant is located in a yellow house by Yorkville Avenue, serving authentic Southern Italian delicacies. Its patio feels homely and warm – a great place to hang out with friends, have interesting conversations, and unwind.

Location: 75, Yorkville Ave

5. Amsterdam Brewhouse

While speaking of the best patio restaurants Toronto has to offer, you simply cannot miss out on the Amsterdam Brewhouse. The patio is spacious with ample open space, so you can easily hang out with your entire gang. Sip on your glass of beer and enjoy the unobstructed view of Lake Ontario – sounds like a perfect weekend plan!

Location: 245 Queens Quay W

So what are you waiting for? Head over to these places, and create some happy memories this summer!

To book a table or request a reservation for your next event at Blu Ristorante, feel free to reach out right away!

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Dining Out: 10 Must-Try Patios in Yorkville

Yorkville isn’t only known for its upscale boutiques, beautiful homes, and bustling culture—it’s also home to some of the most interesting restaurants in Toronto, Ontario. Despite its small area, Yorkville boasts restaurants that offer a diverse range of cuisines. Visiting this neighborhood means you can eat Lebanese cuisine and grab gelato after.

Moreso, Yorkville is full of restaurants that offer lovely alfresco dining. If you’re dining out this patio season, you should check out this list of some of the must-try patios in Yorkville.

Blu Ristorante

Blu Ristorante offers contemporary Italian cuisine and a wine bar right there in the heart of Yorkville. The modern decor of this restaurant is warm & inviting, but nothing beats its beautiful lush patio. Dining out on this patio will make you feel as if you were away. Your terrific dining experience will even be enhanced by the restaurant’s soothing live music.

Amal

Looking for a modern Lebanese restaurant in Toronto? Check out Amal in Yorkville. Its food is heavily rooted in culture while making a nod to new traditions. It also has a stunning and heated second-floor terrace that overlooks Bloor Street. Enjoy delicious Lebanese food while hanging out on this terrace decked with plants, pillows, and multiple lounge furniture pieces.

The Pilot

The Pilot was originally a clubhouse for musicians, artists, and writers. Today, it still has an artsy ambiance, but it’s now a multi-level pub with an aviation theme. Apart from its main floor front patio, it also has a vibrant, spacious & heated rooftop patio called the Flight Deck. Climb to the Flight Deck and enjoy drinking draft beers and listening to live jazz music.

Kasa Moto

Offering contemporary & flavor-packed Japanese food, Kasa Moto is a gem in Yorkville. It also offers two options for outdoor dining. You can either dine at a street-level terrace or go up to the rooftop patio. The sprawling rooftop patio is decked with its own bar, space heaters, and cabanas. Dine here at night, and you can enjoy delicious sushi while gazing at the stars.

Bar Reyna

Situated in a two-story Victorian house, Bar Reyna is a cocktail & snack bar that delivers sumptuous Mediterranean-inspired snacks and signature cocktails. It may have a small facade, but it offers plenty of alfresco dining. It features a gorgeous front patio, along with a spacious backyard patio that can seat 48 people. Try Lamb Baklava when you visit here.

The Oxley

A fan of the traditional British pub? Go to The Oxley! It’s a gastropub that offers classic British pub fare—from fish and chips to traditional cask ales. It also has two patios. The front patio is on street level with a view of the Hazelton Hotel, while the courtyard offers a more intimate atmosphere. So go and grab a pint, choose a patio and enjoy your afternoon.

Sofia

Sofia has created the perfect space for food, art, and drink. It offers contemporary yet nostalgic Italian dishes in a restaurant space that shares a constantly curated art gallery. You can check out the art pieces before sitting and enjoying delectable pasta and wine. Plus, it features an atmospheric patio that makes for an elevated al fresco dining experience.

Sassafraz

Located in an array of Victorian rowhouses, Sassafraz is a gorgeous restaurant that offers irresistible French-inspired Canadian cuisine, wine, and cocktails. Apart from its lovely interiors, it has a shaded and romantic patio. It’s a perfect place to enjoy sumptuous dishes while people-watching or celebrity-spotting.

Cibo Wine Bar

Cibo Wine Bar brings its southern Italian cooking to Yorkville. Here, you can enjoy handmade fresh pasta, delectable pizza, and other traditional Italian food. The restaurant offers two al fresco dining options. It has a side patio for an intimate dining experience. But if you want to be out in the open, you can stay on the street patio with umbrellas and shades.

ONE Restaurant

Preferred a charming candlelit patio for your romantic dinner? Go to ONE Restaurant at The Hazelton Hotel. Its tree-lined patio is the perfect place to indulge in a lavish dining experience while welcoming the patio season. Have a plate of branzino or filet mignon while drinking a glass of wine and enjoying your al fresco dining experience with your loved one.

Restaurant Toronto

FINE DINING AND LIVE MUSIC IN TORONTO

In the vibrant city of Toronto, there are many options to choose from where entertainment is concerned. Trendy bars, fine dining restaurants, and a lively music scene intersperse this city’s diverse and varying neighborhoods, offering a deluge of activities to satisfy even the most finicky fusspot. Yet locating a venue that offers both a fine dining experience and live entertainment seems harder to come by. However, Blu Ristorante in Yorkville is one of those rare gems that offers live entertainment in a fine dining Italian restaurant atmosphere.

Perhaps this is because it has become difficult to bridge the two together successfully, where many places have tried but failed. It seems one must either suffer mediocre cuisine with great music or the sound is too loud and inappropriate for guests to enjoy their dining experience. Having to shout at one another across the table hardly seems relaxing or worth the money spent, and the type of music being played must also not compete with the cuisine and ambiance of the restaurant.

The supper club trend of recent years seems to have lost its appeal, as it appeared to cater only to those that didn’t mind a dining room that would suddenly turn into a raging nightclub. Some hotels in Toronto do offer live entertainment however then you are stuck staying in the hotel, rather than getting out and exploring the city. Although challenging to find, a fine dining restaurant coupled with live entertainment is an added bonus to your night out and is well worth the search.

Blu Ristorante, a fine-dining Italian restaurant in Yorkville hits all the right notes. Known as one of Toronto’s most romantic restaurants, Blu is a rare gem. The softly lit ambiance of the dining room, along with exquisite modern Italian cuisine and a sophisticated wine list, provides the type of live entertainment that doesn’t compete, but rather enhances the entire dining experience. One can carry on a conversation while enjoying the talented musicians who understand the importance of guest satisfaction. Jazz classics, as well as contemporary compositions, are performed in each singer’s own unique style.

What better way to impress your date than arrange for the musician to play their favorite song? Planning a group dinner can be stressful, but the added bonus of live music ensures that your guests will be both entertained and well-fed. Blu Ristorante in Yorkville caters to both intimate and group dining and does so with ease. This is one Toronto fine dining restaurant that successfully unites exceptional live music with superior modern Italian fare. Live music can also be enjoyed on Blu’s patio. Blu’s performers connect to Blu’s sound system so music is played throughout the restaurant on two levels and patio at an enjoyable volume.

Blu offers live music on Friday and Sunday nights. Guitar players/singers are dedicated to Fridays, while pianists/singers are dedicated to Sunday nights.

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Interview with Alfredo Rodriguez, owner of Blu Ristorante

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food & beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alfredo Rodriguez, owner of Blu Ristorante, an upscale Italian restaurant located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

What’s your business, and who are your customers?

Upscale Italian Restaurant, our clientele are people looking for a flawless experience overall – we do not sell food and wine, we sell an experience.

Tell us about yourself

I came to Canada 22 years ago. I went back to university when I was 25, and I finished my business degree when I was 30. I had been working in hospitality to pay for tuition and living expenses. When I finished my degree, no company wanted to hire me because I was older than most graduates with a thick accent and no experience in the field. I decided to go back to hospitality, but I would be my own boss this time and not look for a job ever again. I decided that I would buy people’s time instead of selling my time.

I have worked in hospitality since I was 13 years old, started washing dishes, so it felt right from a business perspective to go in the field that I had the most experience. Over the years, I realized that I was also passionate about quality food, great wines, genuine customer service, and most importantly, passionate about investing in real estate from the profits generated from Blu.

What’s your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Almost 14 years in operations with Blu Ristorante. I have seen hundreds of restaurants in 14 years opening and closing at an alarming rate.

What’s one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

You are always working mentally, 24/7. You’re always thinking about how to improve, how to run a tighter operation, how to retain key employees, how to innovate, etc. Being a business owner is similar to becoming a parent. The moment your first newborn comes home, you know that you will not have a break from being a parent for many years to come. I believe this analogy applies to being a successful business owner. Of course, this only applies if you are a good parent.

What are the top tips you’d give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Ask yourself if you are comfortable with the idea of living uncomfortably for many, many years to come.
Learn to control your ego and learn from people. Recognize 2 or 3 skills that you are very good at and focus on these. For all the other 20 skills that you are not good at, hire people you enjoy working with, and of course, they must be better than you.
Surround yourself with positive, supportive people. Cut off all the people in your life that do not contribute to the betterment of your life.

Being a successful entrepreneur and a leader can be a lonely ride. Make sure you are aware of this, and you enjoy creating your own destiny. Be ready to work long hours for the first few years.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://bluristorante.com/

Instagram: @bluristorante

Twitter: @BluRistorante

https://gosolo.subkit.com/contemporary-italian-cuisine-in-the-heart-of-toronto-blu-ristorante/

Restaurant Toronto

More than a treat! Outstanding! Total pleasure!

My sister and I decided to dine out in the area. We had noticed the big tent on this property and were so excited about dining out. The patios have just opened, but I think everyone in the area was ready for a gourmet feast. Do make a reservation. The tables are well spaced. There are many large heaters and even though we were indeed wearing a coat it was all so comfortable. We were warmly greeted at the front and the service continued to be outstanding throughout our wonderful dinner. The servers all seemed to drop by and ‘check in.’ it was so friendly and welcoming. Thank you, Michael, for your outstanding service. He was so willing to satisfy and was a delight. The menu offered a variety of tasty options.

You could enjoy a drink (or two) and have a light fare. The Antipasti Selection would make for a choice of appetizers. Prosciutto di Parma, Soppressata or Capicollo are just a few of the charcuterie suggestions. I was interested in the Aged Gouda, Parmigiano Reggiano and Manchego. If you decide on several courses you may choose to begin with the Zuppa Del Giorno. Grilled Calamari with pepperonata, olives, capers, chili olio and arugula is listed as a starter.

Ahi Tuna Tartar with saffron leek fonduta, roasted pistachio, truffle aioli, sweet potato chips is enhanced with sesame vinaigrette. The Insalate suggestions all were so tempting. Ontario Burrata with balsamic pearls, basil, medley cherry tomatoes, roasted beets and a salsa verde is a creative choice. Arugula combined with Ricotta salata, cucumber, black figs, with a balsamic reduction and raspberry vinaigrette is tempting.

My sister enjoyed the Roasted Cornish Hen with parsnip puree, braised red cabbage and gooseberry chicken jus. It was so creatively plated and she enjoyed it immensely. The Roasted Atlantic Salmon with parsnip puree, beluga lentils and barley with rapini and chive oil was my superb choice. The salmon was exquisite. It melted in my mouth. The creative vegetable selection was tasty and so enjoyed. Wood Oven Roasted Australian Rack of Lamb is served with rapini, parsnip puree and mushroom veal jus.

I was tempted with a Gluten Free Pasta. Next time for sure. Tomato Braised Beef Cheek Ragu with wild mushrooms, sweet potato and potato gnocchi includes fresh basil. I can almost taste this in my mind. Linguine Aglio e Olio, chili shrimp, calamari and mussels is served with arugula.

Several Sides would make for a tasty vegetarian meal. Sweet Potato Ricotta Gnocchi and the Zucchini Fritters with truffle oil sound tempting to me.

My sister wanted Biscotti for dessert. Unfortunately they were out of them on this occasion. They offered a Tiramisu instead. A beautifully decorated plate was presented. Someone had ordered it and changed their mind because the plate was all decorated for a birthday. No, it was not my sister’s birthday but the plate drew a lot of attention. Everybody who went by wished her a happy birthday. We had quite a laugh

Every bite was perfection. I can’t wait to return. Apparently Blu will be opening soon for lunches and brunches. I will be there. It was a memorable evening. How great to be once again on a patio enjoying such perfect cuisine.

Restaurant Toronto

The perfect place for a perfect Friday night dinner

It’s Friday evening, a tough week has finished and you’re tired and hungry. Outside, the weather is great; a clear sky and nice temperature set the scenery for a perfect summer evening, ideal to dine out. Right now, you’re wondering where would be the best place to relax and have a great dinner in a cozy environment where you feel at home.

Yorkville, the iconic hippie neighborhood during the 60’s and now Toronto’s high-end shopping district, comes to your mind immediately. You remember your best friend recommended Blu, an Italian Ristorante located some steps away on Yorkville Avenue. “You and Silvia (my wife) will love it. It’s just an experience you can’t miss!” said David.

There we are, hungry and ready to enjoy David’s recommendation. The sun is setting, and we decide to have dinner at their patio. We haven’t ordered anything yet, and we know David is right, this will be a great evening; an aroma of freshly baked bread coming from their wood fired oven welcomes us.

We have a hard time to decide what to order; everything looks delicious! There’s no need to be experts in Italian cuisine to know the food is going to be superb. After a few minutes, the server who is very helpful with his suggestions, takes our order, finally. We feel adventurous and go for
a bottle of Chianti wine from Tuscany.

Meanwhile, food is coming, we have time to enjoy the ambience. Sunlight fades slowly at the time the patio is lit with an elegant soft blue light that comes from dozens of little bulbs hanging from the wooden pergola. Silvia looks happy and beautiful, we sip our wine and smile. All of a sudden, we hear from the inside the guitar chords of “For once in my life” and I breathe deep and happily; I know Blu is going to be my favourite restaurant.

Food arrived some minutes later, and it was great, but I’ll need a complete blog entry to speak about it. Please, wait for my next post so that I can share a real Italian cuisine experience with you at Blu, the best Italian restaurant in Yorkville, Toronto.

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What’s with the term? What is al fresco dining?

What does al fresco dining include?

What are the common al fresco dining ideas?

What are the other benefits of al fresco style dining?

Final words

1. How’s the Ambiance?

2. Convenient Location

3. Seating Capacity

4. Parking Capacity

5. Is It Indoor or Outdoor?

6. What’s on the Menu?

7. Bonus Tip: Plan in Advance

Private Dining Toronto: Book Blu Ristorante for Events

Elevated sensory experience

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Being one with nature

Soaking up the sun

Social experience

Your body functions better

1. Enjoying Nature

2. Breaking the Monotony

3. Spending Quality Time

4. Relaxing Ambience

5. Soaking in the Sunshine

6. Perfect for Events

Enjoy the Best Patio Dining Toronto at Blu Ristorante

Best patio Yorkville Toronto Alfresco dining: 5 places you must try

1.Blu Ristorante

2. Falcon SkyBar

3. Bellwoods Brewery

4. Trattoria Nervosa

5. Amsterdam Brewhouse

Blu Ristorante

Amal

The Pilot

Kasa Moto

Bar Reyna

The Oxley

Sofia

Sassafraz

Cibo Wine Bar

ONE Restaurant

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What are the top tips you’d give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

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