Mildred’s Temple Kitchen
85 Hanna Ave., Ste. 104
416-588-5695
www.templekitchen.com
Rating: ****
Dinner for two with drinks: $80
I really didn’t like the lunch I’d had at Mildred’s when it first opened in 2008. A few months later, attending an event there, I was again disappointed by the fare.
So being here for dinner was not for interest, but convenience, and I was happy about my company.
The industrial space always impresses people by its sheer size and height. The sleek uncluttered feel is like being in a designer’s loft. And the open concept wood and stainless steel kitchen and storey-high windows that look out onto train tracks fascinates many guests.
My friend wanted a salad but not any on the menu. The chef created a delectable Mixed Greens Salad ($5) with heirloom carrots delicately dressed in lemony vinaigrette. A beautiful Short Rib Roast ($29) fell off the big bone and was succulent and unfussy. But the Classic Mildred Burger ($16) was stunning. Piled high with tobacco onions (thin, crisp onion rings) and tomato relish, topped with pillowy buns and the tiniest gherkin, it is an intoxicating mix of flavours and textures.
This meal, along with the mostly attentive service and handsome waitstaff (our server Ivan looks like Jake Gyllenhaal) won me over.
This is definitely a first.
Dining out
What a Mix
It’s not fusion at all, but two separate cuisines at Hungary Thai Bar & Eatery (196 Augusta Ave., Kensington Market). Mix a curry dish with cabbage rolls or chicken paprikash and chicken fried rice. Or there are pre-set combos that solve any decision-making problems. Check out the full menu at www.hungarythai.com.
Cupcake Mania
This city is mad for this trendy dessert, so the places keep on coming. Some new places to get your sugar fix: For the Love of Cake (171 East Liberty St.), OMG Baked Goodness (1561 Dundas St. W.) and Short & Sweet Cupcakes (399 Old Orchard Grove).
In brief
This ’n That
Fresh & Wild just opened up a new store in the Distillery District, in addition to their Bloor West Village and King & Spadina locations. What’s great about them is you can get your everyday pantry items, along with intriguing ingredients and hard-to-find products. Pick up prepared meals, breads, produce, cakes and pies and much more. Go to www.freshandwild.ca for info.
