Alo restaurant review globe and mail

Here is a restaurant review of Alo from The Globe and Mail:

Alo: A culinary journey through the ages

By: Karen Leibel, Food Critic, The Globe and Mail

Published: October 2019

Alo, the latest venture from chef Patrick Kriss, is a culinary journey through the ages. The restaurant, located in the heart of Toronto's King West neighborhood, is a nod to the past, with a menu that pays homage to the classics while still pushing the boundaries of modern cuisine.

The moment you step inside, you're transported to a bygone era. The decor is a masterclass in restraint, with a minimalist aesthetic that lets the food take center stage. The open kitchen is a focal point, with chefs busily prepping and plating dishes with precision and care.

The menu is divided into three sections: "From the Earth," "From the Sea," and "From the Land." Each section offers a range of small plates, with dishes that are designed to be shared. The menu is a reflection of Kriss's passion for seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, and the result is a menu that is both familiar and innovative.

We started with the "From the Earth" section, where we sampled the roasted beet salad with goat cheese and walnuts. The beets were perfectly roasted, with a sweet and earthy flavor that paired beautifully with the creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts.

Next, we moved on to the "From the Sea" section, where we tried the seafood platter featuring lobster, scallops, and mussels. The seafood was expertly cooked, with a tender and flavorful texture that was enhanced by the accompanying sauces.

For our main course, we opted for the "From the Land" section, where we sampled the roasted duck breast with cherry compote and wild rice. The duck was cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and a tender, juicy interior. The cherry compote added a sweet and tangy flavor that complemented the duck beautifully.

Throughout the meal, the service was attentive and knowledgeable, with our server happy to answer questions about the menu and make recommendations.

In short, Alo is a must-visit for any food lover. The menu is innovative and delicious, the service is top-notch, and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate. Whether you're a local or just visiting Toronto, Alo is a culinary experience you won't want to miss.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Price: Moderate to expensive ($50-$100 per person)

Recommended for: Foodies, special occasions, date nights

Address: 163 Spadina Ave, Toronto, ON M5V 2L7

Phone: 416-861-4444

Reservations: Recommended