The streets of Toronto were wimpering as light showers drifted through the sky. I marched up Yonge Street after hopping out of St. Claire Station and soon found myself at the entrance of Didier Restaurant. I was thrilled to be having lunch with Jenny and Elissa from Eatzclub as I had not seen them since the early Fall.
Didier would be my fifth restaurant review for Eatzclub a fantastic new Toronto based diners club which supports Daily Bread Food Bank. I have been so pleased to talk to the owners and staff at Blu Ristorante, Chiado, Arisu, Ascari and now Didier. All share their honest enthusiasm for being involved in an initiative that gives back to those in need.
In 2007 Chef Didier Leroy was awarded France’s prestigious Medal of the Chevalier de L’Ordre du Merite Agricole by the Consul General of France in Toronto. This award was given to Didier in recognition for his tireless work in carrying on the great French Culinary Tradition in Canada. One of the French Government’s highest honours, it dates back to 1883 and is the equivalent of the Legion d’Honneur, but in the field of agriculture. Didier is known across the city for showcasing his renditions of classical French cuisine through seasonal menus utilizing only the freshest and highest quality ingredients.
I arrived thirty minutes early to take pictures of the space. The dining room is truly elagent featuring thick curtains and glowing chandeliers. A cute little vintage Parisian bar is located at the front overlooking Yonge Street and features fantastic bar stools and cafe style casual dining.
I sat in my seat running my finger down the menu as I overheard a lovely French woman ordering a glass of Bordeaux and escargots. I closed my eyes and transported myself to Montmartre Paris. I continued to listen to the woman as she chit chatted with her waitress in French. Amazing the adventures you can go on when you simply close your eyes and listen closely to the whispers and odours in a dining room.
I spent the next few hours catching up with Elissa and Jenny over a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc. All three of us couldn’t get enough of the restaurants signature steak tartare which our waitress mentioned many people drive from near and afar to indulge. As we each smiled over our entrees we spoke excitedly about the Eatzclub program which will be launching across the city in the new year, so stay tuned.
Didier offers an exceptional French lunch offering at a very reasonable price. A great spot for anglophones like moi to practice their Francais. Just be sure to elegantly spin yourself out their dining room after your meal. You’ll feel one hundred times better after you do!
We enjoyed:
Steak Tartare
Croque Madame
Salade Nicoise
Moules Frites
Chocolate Surprise
#412 restaurant reviewed in Ontario since moving to Toronto in 2010.
