Ben's favourite restaurant is Sicily

Italy is known for its delectable cuisine, rich culture, and beautiful landmarks. One restaurant that captures the essence of all these elements is Sicily, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that serves authentic Italian delicacies. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, Ben’s favourite restaurant is a culinary journey that guides diners through a true Italian experience.

Sicily prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are reflective of cuisine found throughout Italy. The restaurant is named after the island of Sicily, the largest island of the Mediterranean, which is known for its fresh produce, olive oils, and wines. Sicilian cuisine is a melting pot of flavours and spices. Diners can expect to enjoy a variety of dishes from antipasti to the main course, but the real star of the restaurant is the delicious homemade pasta.

The atmosphere of Sicily is warm and inviting, with a modern rustic interior that embraces the Italian roots of the restaurant. The mural of the Sicilian landscape painted on the wall sets the tone for an authentic Italian experience. The dining room is the ideal space to celebrate many occasions, from a romantic dinner with a loved one to a family gathering. The outdoor patio is an excellent place to enjoy the warm weather and watch the hustle and bustle of downtown life.

The menu offers a wide range of dishes, catering to all types of diners. The antipasti selection includes burrata, caprese, and beef carpaccio, amongst other Italian classics. The homemade pasta is a standout, with ben’s favourite being the Fusilli Alla Norma. The dish is made with sautéed eggplant, cherry tomato, basil, and ricotta salata, which is a classic Sicilian dish. The different types of pasta available ensure that everyone finds a dish they enjoy.

Other main courses on the menu include wood-fired pizza with a crispy crust and various toppings, such as the classic margherita or the nduja pizza with spicy calabrese salami. The meat options include the juicy steak Forno, served with baby new potatoes and green beans, or the braised lamb shank simmered with garlic jus. The seafood choices are a nod to the location of the restaurant, with the seafood risotto, served with fresh mussels, clams, and tiger shrimp being one of the signature dishes.

Dessert is where Sicily truly shines. The restaurant offers a selection of Italian classics, such as tiramisu and panna cotta, as well as a few specialties. Their limoncello sorbet and chocolate trio of handmade chocolates are a must-try made in-house in collaboration with top chocolatier Barry Callebaut.

The restaurant prides itself on pairing authentic Italian dishes with an impressive selection of aperitivos, wine, and cocktails. The wine list includes a mix of Italian and Canadian wines that complement the dishes on the menu. The cocktail menu includes popular Italian drinks, such as an Aperol Spritz and a Negroni.

Sicily’s dedication to using only the freshest local ingredients results in dishes that taste incredible. The attention to detail in the dishes is obvious with every bite that is taken. The combination of fresh ingredients and traditional recipes creates a perfect balance. The exceptional level of service and tasty food make Sicily a delightful dining experience, perfect for any occasion.

In conclusion, if Ben’s favourite restaurant is anything to go by, Sicily is a culinary journey that serves up authentic Italian cuisine that is sure to leave you wanting more. From the warm and inviting atmosphere to the impeccable wine selection, Sicily is the perfect destination to enjoy a slice of Italy in the heart of Toronto. It is no surprise that Ben keeps returning to this Italian gem, and after one visit, you will too.