BISTRO 990

Great night out with your significant other, complimented by fantastic French fare...

In my opinion, Bistro 990 still has some kinks to work out (even after 20 some odd years on the block), however, there is no question that this charming, south of France environment and Toronto landmark, serves-up high quality fare, holding down its reputation as one of Toronto’s best. Although most locals in the city likely associate Bistro 990 with TIFF and the various celebs that frolick in and out during the festival, this non pretentious, wine cellar (vaulted ceilings) dining experience is open to everyone (who can afford it of course).

The minute you walk into this candle lit, fresh flower infused, atmosphere, you are greeted by a small but welcoming bar. Given Bistro’s extensive (yet highly overpriced) wine, scotch and beer list, it might be worthwhile showing-up 30 minutes before your reservation to have a drink and watch the crowd before you are seated. In addition, it will give you and your party a chance to relax with some ‘personal space’ because unfortunately, once you are seated, you will be cramped into the restaurant like an old fashion can of sardines. In some situations, it might be nice to squeeze in beside Clooney, Diaz, Pitt and the likes of high-society, but if you are trying to share a romantic evening with your significant other, don’t expect to hold a gushy private conversation.

Atmosphere aside, the big attraction at Bistro (as it should be) is the food. This French dining experience is hard to match in Toronto, with beautiful cheeses, French soups, mussels, oysters , a variety of meets (Veal, Fillet Mignon, Prime Rib), a number of fish choices (Salmon, Arctic Char, Cod), along with a fantastic assortment of desserts. During my last visit, I really enjoyed the lobster chowder with its smoky flavour (yet should have been served hotter), the house salad (with a great house vinaigrette), lemon and tahini infused risotto and easily my favourite of the night, the Fillet Mignon; which was cooked to perfection and noticeably high-quality beef with a texture like soft butter. What the Chef’s at Bistro have mastered, is the variety of sauces that accompany your meat. The roast shallot jus on my meat was a mix of buttery, peppery, red wine and cherry goodness; so good, I almost wanted a full cup of the jus for dessert. That said, I may take that comment back, knowing that Bistro’s famous Crème Brûlée is always on the menu and 100% worth a try.

With a number of checks on its scorecard, leave it to me to find a few negatives and given the price tag on Bistro, there are certainly some things worth noting. Generally speaking, the wait-staff at 990 are far from attentive and deteriorate the overall restaurant experience compared to the fantastic food. Sometimes, little things matter and unfortunately, Bistro does a really bad job with the small things in life. For example, no one takes your coat at check-in, no one refills your water, no one asks if you would like some fresh pepper or cheese with your meal and for a French restaurant, the bread was absolutely terrible. Even if 990 served Ace Bakery, it would be a world of improvement.

Let’s face it though, at the end of the day, you aren’t eating at Bistro for someone to pamper you and the bottom line is that this food is consistent, fresh, served very hot (most of the time) and absolutely mouth watering. Give it a try.

Recommendation: A night of sharing between you and your lover. Share the French onion soup and house vinaigrette salad, followed by one order of fish, one order of meat and the Crème Brûlée to finish.

HOURS: Lunch and Dinner, last order, 11:00pm
ADDRESS: 990 Bay Street
PRICE: $160 including tax and tip (2 glasses of wine, 2 appetizers, 2 mains, 1 dessert)
WEBSITE: http://www.bistro990.ca/