Ever had a “go-to” place where, regardless of how challenging your day has been, your spirits are lifted the moment you saunter in the door?
The One Eighty and I have a history, and, with the exception of one summer when I spent a few months out of town, it has been my all-season go-to place for years. When I was invited to the re-opening just in time for those sexy summer evenings, I didn’t have to pretend. I was more than curious.
It’s 51 floors up by private elevator and then I’m greeted by floor-to-ceiling windows that offer the best vistas of Toronto. With outdoor terraces on both sides of the newly renovated space and a new, less bar-like dining atmosphere, One Eighty has a tasteful “let’s enjoy lunch or dinner” vibe.
And true to form, the chef has taken a leading role in designing a start-to-finish menu that tips its hat to sharing, schmoozing and experimenting. From tasty little treats that arrive on a trendy bar cart for sampling to generous plated entrees, an evening here is sky-high romantic. With halibut tacos and citrus gravlax on the start-and-share menu, a ramen noodle slaw with sriracha shrimp, “on the board” pizzas with large scissors for cutting and a “taste me, I’m decadent” dessert menu, you certainly won’t leave hungry.
Yes, this is Toronto’s sexiest new restaurant by far for first dates, summer evenings in the city or a mid-week pick-me-up that’ll give you that on-top-of-the-world feeling again.