$$ French Restaurant
Frenchy Bar et Brasserie offers a modern twist on classic French cuisine, nestled within the elegant lobby of the Hilton Hotel. It’s not just a dining experience; it's a journey into Parisian-inspired indulgence. From morning café au lait to late-night affairs, Frenchy sets the stage for unforgettable dining moments.
Location:
Conveniently located at 145 Richmond Street West, Frenchy Bar et Brasserie is just a short walk from Osgoode Station and the Four Seasons Centre of Performing Arts. Situated in the lobby of the Hilton Hotel, it's easily accessible for both locals and visitors alike making it the perfect spot for before or after a night at Toronto's opera house.
The Vibe:
As you step into the lobby of the Hilton Hotel, you're immediately drawn to the magnificent cylindrical gold and red bar, bustling with guests. The space exudes an air of luxury, with deep red leather seats, warm ambient lighting, and chic décor. Whether you're sipping cocktails at the bar or enjoying a meal in the dining area, Frenchy's ambiance transports you to the streets of Paris. Their Hosts and Hostesses are attentive, alert and ready with recommendations. We felt the space was welcoming and open but at the same time intimate as we were not rushed or overly addressed as you might find in some establishments.
My Experience:
Running a bit behind schedule due to unexpected traffic, we arrived at Frenchy Bar et Brasserie a tad later than planned. I quickly called as soon as I noticed a build up in traffic, and we were ensured our table was reserved and waiting for us for whenever we would arrive, showcasing the restaurant's accommodating nature. The restaurant had just opened a few nights before, on Thursday February 29th, and we were worried that we might lose our reservation - however we were incredibly pleased with how understanding they were. And it was a surprise for my friends birthday, and so I would have been mortified if we missed it.
The drive itself should have been about 15 minutes, however on this evening it took about 45 minutes due to an event and some road closures in the downtown core. Thankfully we left about 30 minutes early and arrived about 10-15 minutes late.
Entering the lobby, we were greeted warmly by the hostess and escorted to our table amidst the elegant setting. The golden bar marking the divide between the dining area with the lobby was filled with well dressed guests most having a drink before catching an opera or ballet at the Four Seasons Center across the street or perhaps meeting friends or family for dinner at one one of the many restaurants that surround the area.
We were led through the dining area, where only one other table was filled, the host had let us know that they had received many calls for guests coming late due to the surprise bout of traffic. And so we had for the most part the dining area to ourselves. The table was impeccably set, complete with charming side plates (mine being decorated with a devil with a curly moustache and my friends with a cat, which suited her perfectly since she is a cat mom), and rose gold accents, adding to the refined ambiance. My friend sat on the inside booth and I on the leather bound chair across from it.
What We Ordered:
We began by ordering a glass of each of Crémant de Bourgone, Louis Bouillot, Brut Rosé, which was $17 a glass.
Truffle Baked Brie ($28):
Presented in an All-Clad Gratin, the warm brie was topped with wildflower honey and pecans, served with toasted baguette slices. Each bite offered a delightful blend of creamy cheese, earthy truffle, and sweet honey, creating a symphony of flavours. The accompanying toasted baguette provided the perfect vehicle for enjoying this decadent dish, making it a highlight of the evening.
Salmon Tartare ($24):
Served in a chilled glass bowl nestled in ice, the salmon tartare was a visual delight. served with a hard-boiled egg, red onion, capers, and crème fraîche, it offered a refreshing burst of flavours with each bite. We received five toasted baguette slices, though slightly challenging to handle as there were many holes in it (which is common for this kind of bread) led to many instances of tartare falling through, but it still provided a satisfying crunch against the creamy soft texture of the Salmon.
Charcuterie & Fromage ($12):
Selection of preserves & accompaniments (choice of 1 $12 | choice of 2 $22 | choice of 3 $32)
Opting for the Pâté selection, we were presented with an elevated wooden board adorned with an array of accompaniments. The Pâté itself, while not the standout of the meal, was complemented by a delectable brioche, grapes, mustard, and variety of pickles. Each element contributed to a well-rounded charcuterie experience, despite the Pâté being a bit underwhelming.
Conclusion:
Frenchy Bar et Brasserie offers a delightful fusion of modern elegance and classic French cuisine. From the warm hospitality to the exquisite dishes, every aspect of the dining experience is carefully curated to transport guests to the heart of Paris. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely brunch or a lavish dinner, Frenchy's charm and culinary prowess gives it the potential to become a must for any lover of french cuisine. We will definitely be back, to give it another chance to see how they've grown since their launch.
How To Get There
Car - There are quite a few parking garages nearby open to the public, however it is quite costly and so we recommend taking a car service like Uber instead.
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