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Five Doors North
Category: Restaurants Canadian (New) Canadian (New) [Edit]
2088 Yonge StToronto, ON M4S 2A3
Neighbourhood: Mount Pleasant and Davisville
(416) 480-6234
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Loud
20 reviews for Five Doors North
20 reviews in English
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Review from T Y.
Toronto, ON
11/8/2011
Thanks to other yelpers for finding this joint.
Loved the atmosphere and quality of food - we had a bunch of dishes - lamb, strip loin special, seafood stew and mushroom risotto. My fav was lamb, very flavorful and juicy.
Price was decent for the portion size. Liked the vibe was not pretentious.
Would recommend for a romantic date or casual dinner with friends. -
Review from Su B.
Updated - 12/2/2011
It's very sad when a restaurant you really like plays Jekyll and Hyde on you. But this time was definitely below par. Since it was a weeknight we didn't have too much trouble getting a table. For starters we had the Alaskan crab cake. I ordered a small plate of risotto and the seafood stew. Both were a complete disaster. The seafood was overcooked and gummy submerged in a thick tomato sauce that was barely seasoned. It tasted like someone had opened a can of tomato purée and poured it on my plate. The risotto was strangely sour as well. My husband ordered ribs and matchstick fries and needed a steak knife to eat it (although the waitress insisted it would just fall apart). A very mediocre meal and we are probably not going back!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/13/2011
Have been meaning to check this place out for a while. I made reservations on a Friday evening and… Read more »
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Review from Trish N.
Vancouver, BC
6/16/2011
God, reading the previous, non-agreeing-with-me reviews, the non-agreeing-with-me reviewers are so off base! (as non-agreeing reviewers are so apt to be)
I love this place and have missed it so since I've moved away. It is the neighborhood restaurant everyone should have. No, I don't think it is the place to see and be seen, to drink cosmos (who drinks f-ing cosmos?!!) or to be a douchebag. It's the place to drink one more bottle of wine than you probably should. It worked as our Friday night date night place or our Wednesday night don't-feel-like-cooking place and we were always proud to bring our friends. We were never disappointed. Never. Unpretentious staff. Unpretentious atmosphere. Great food. Such such great food. Great specials. Always something to pique your interest, even if you go all the time.
Make this your place. You will never regret it. -
Review from Tee Jay R.
Toronto, ON
5/15/2011
Yonge & Eglinton vexes me. While the rest of the city has undergone a dining renaissance in virtue of the amount of disposable income floating around over the last ten years, this highly affluent and ostentatious neighbourhood remains an inexplicable dining black hole. I am hopeful whenever a new restaurant comes on my radar and garners some good reviews -- hoping that it will be the catalyst that will get the 'hood's culinary mojo flowing in the right direction.
Sadly, Five Doors North isn't up to the task. For all its pretentions, the chefs had a very heavy hand with the salt and olive oil, the meat and fish were overcooked, the wine was merely meh, and our server was a strange blend of condescending and confused. It is head and shoulders above most places in the area, but that doesn't count for much -- it is still not where it ought to be. -
Review from Christine C.
Etobicoke, ON
9/16/2010
Two & a half stars.
Maybe I'm missing something here because most of the previous reviewers had so many great things to say about this place. There isn't an iota of a wow factor in this resto whatsoever. Frankly I found it to be kinda grungy. My arms kept sliding on the clear plastic covers tacked on to the tables. This spot looks like a cheap restaurant makeover place. Even the glassware is kinda grungy. You know how glasses get to look after they been through the industrial dishwashers one too many times. This is totally Five Doors North which made me wish I should have gone a few doors further north and hit up Zucca instead.
Hooked up with my sista meatatarian, the groovy Shari M. and we were hunkering down for a celebrataory birthday evening and thought this place would hit the spot, especially after reading the glowing reviews. We ordered some plates to share. Grilled sardines. Pizzetta. Sausages. Some rolled up prosciutto thing that they brought literally seconds after ordering. They must make them in advance and keep them in the fridge. This meant the prosciutto was really well chilled which ultimately means you just can't taste it and it raised the chewy factor even more so.
Shari ordered a Cosmo and her reaction was to tell me not to order my usual Cosmo cocktail because she could tell by the taste they were using really cheap booze. Cocktails and wine by the glass is on par with restos such as the Hoof, Splendido, Enoteca....yet were miles apart in terms of quality, quantity and stemware. I notice these things and even more so when all I keep thinking is about my arms sliding around the greasy plastic table covers.
Five Doors North. Two & a Half Doors for me. -
Review from Mitch S.
Toronto, ON
12/12/2010
I can for a huge group dinner and they treated us wonderfully! In addition to the great service, I was able to try all kinds of food ranging from various smoked salmon appetizers, steak, a few types of pasta...oh my that brings back memories of an amazing mushroom fussili that was absolutely amazing...all this followed by chicken, salmon, and a bit of prime rib...honestly each dish was extremely tasty, although not standout amazing like the fussili. And finally the dessert came around, although typically not the best part of the meal for me, the desserts that evening took the cake. Amazing creme brule (definitely the best I've has in North Toronto), a flour less chocolate cake, and a cheese cake topped with a blackberry red wine reduction...my god, I had no idea red wine and cheese cake was such an amazing pairing.
Give it a shot. Loom above your heads and check out the cool lighting. -
Review from Danielle P.
Toronto, ON
1/20/2010 2 photos
I think that the true test of a five star restaurant is whether the star power diminishes as the weeks progress.
I perused this lovely joint over two weeks ago, and due to many varied reasons this review is slightly delayed. However, my love for this eatery has not wavered, I have recommended this elegant establishment to almost everyone I have come in contact with.
My experience began with a phone call requesting very obscurely whether or not they served decaf coffee. When assured that there were many cafe options I sent out the triple text to invite a few companions along. Walking in the door one is met by a thick curtain, making you feel as though you are coming into a cozy theater ready to take the stage. Greeting me moments after I arrived was a jeans clad server/host who quickly found me a table for four though I lacked a reservation.
The tables were full of noisy patrons, some in their Sunday finest, and others like myself in jeans and tees. Wondering what kind of menu might encourage such a varied crowd, I excitedly scanned the kitschy photocopy of the menu and wine list. I could hardly wait to enjoy something on the widely varied list.
Whether you are a meat lover, veg fantsizer, carb craver or a fish fanatic this menu has a plethora of options, which they delightfully pair with an appropriate wine selection. Both of my companions were late, that however did not stop the server from checking on me periodically and refilling my bread whenever it got a little low. When my table partner finally arrived, Sherry (server) was moments away ready to recite the specials and issue her personal recommendations.
I began with the king crab cakes on a bed of spring greens grapefruit and delectable aioli, and followed with a side of their stuffed lobster ravioli. Both dishes were found in the seasonal specials, and both were fantastically delicious. Not only were the crab cakes flavorful and exciting the lobster ravioli was melt in your mouth delicious. My friends were also very happy with their sumptuous selections.
After our dinner, a round of coffee (decaf) was ordered, we encountered our first possible issue...cream...or rather lack thereof. When the cream was requested the waiter ashamedly whispered that the chef might throw something if one requested a tureen of cream. Instead of making issue with now unwanted coffee the waitress immediately asked if we would like it removed from the bill. Crisis averted, atmosphere maintained.
First five star review attained, hurrah! Bottom line..this reasonable restaurant is good for a date night with the other, drinks with friends or almost any other occasion, I will certainly return.Listed in: I've got a crush on you...I've…
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Review from kelly m.
8/8/2010
I had the fortune of dining at Five Doors during a recent visit to Toronto -- and was very impressed. Since there was a large party, we started with a series of appetizers. We sampled the roast beet salad, goat cheese polenta, guacamole on crosontini, and grilled sardines. The polenta was by far the most memorable of the appetizers; it had an almost whipped texture, which melted in your mouth with every bite. I don't normally enjoy polenta, but this was by far my favorite appetizer (but the others were excellent as well).
For my entree, I chose gorgonzola gnocchi, which was one of the day's specials. The serving size for their single serving pastas may appear tiny, but it was so rich that I was grateful for the small dish. I couldn't finish my dinner, even after sharing bites around the table.
We also shared a few deserts: a flourless chocolate cake, a fruit and whipped cream parfait, and a creme brule. I stuck to the chocolate, which is typical for me; a perfect ending to a lovely meal. -
Review from Erin H.
Toronto, ON
9/12/2008 1 photo
Unpretentious is an adjective I carry with me when seeking out a place to eat in Hogtown, Ont. Much to my chagrin it is not simple to find a place with this seemingly simple quality.
But Five Doors North, with its primary coloured front doors hanging above its entrance, definitely fits the bill. The restaurant specializes in a variety of rotating small plate dishes like avocado bruschetta, crab cakes, or roasted beets. It's a wonderful place for a date because sharing is encouraged and you can be a cheapskate (everything is reasonably priced) and still impress your date. -
Review from L B.
Toronto, ON
1/3/2011
This place is really fabulous! We went here over the holidays and were very impressed. It's casual but the food is outstanding. We shared mushroom risotto with truffle oil, and gnocchi. Both dishes were great (fyi the lunch size is enough food.. believe me!).
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Review from Tammy Y.
Toronto, ON
4/21/2010
Five Doors North is a gem! Everything about this place is surprising, for one who went in with minimal expectations, based entirely on their weak logo and website.
Surprise #1: The place was kicking - and packed (given, it was a Saturday night)
Surprise #2: The servers are younger and remind you of your best friend's older brother. Cute, friendly, wears a RVCA t-shirt, but totally not even in dateable realm.
Surprise #3: They sold out of their fish special before 8pm.
Surprise #4: The food was outstanding.
Surprise #5: The price is more than reasonable.
Not surprisingly, however, was the fact that there were two other birthday parties, other than the one I was attending, going on here. The place is lively, welcoming, and full of a mish mash of people gathered for a hearty meal. Entrees sit comfortably at about $15, and we're talking offerings like BBQ ribs, halibut, seafood stew, and risotto. I shared a seafood stew and veal special with a partner, and mmmmm, both were delicious, tender, and oh-so-filling.
Appetizers were also tempting, and the blueberry cheesecake was light and blissful - a hit! With all the options to choose from in the Yonge/Eg area, dodge the confusion and head here! -
Review from LouLou L.
Toronto, ON
4/17/2010
Based on the great reviews, I decided to go here with a few friends last night. Overall, the experience was average. I cannot see how this is a five star restaurant.. The atmosphere was loud and a bit eccletic. It wasn't full, which is surprising for a friday night at dinner time.
I started my meat with a Pizzatte with arugula, portobelleo mushrooms and potato. The crust was a bit thicker than I liked and there was no arugula! Maybe they ran out..?
My friend ordered the lamb chops for $19.99, which were merely 2 small chops, lacking flavour and no side..
My main was off the special menu, the 'Miso-glazed halibut with sweet potato, asparagus and ginger aioli' for $22.99 The fish was not very fresh and did not flake as halibut should.. I asked them if it was frozen and they said no, but I suspect that maybe it was second-rate? I was rather disappointed with this, as fish is my favourite food.
We also ordered a beet salad, which was average - the greens were not that fresh - I found a rotten piece amongst my leaves. The beets were very cold, which didn't suit my taste buds.
The gnocchi in gorgonzola cream sauce was ok - too much sauce and not enough gnocchi, though.. wine selection was average, but adequate.
I think zucca one block north is worth trying over Five Doors North. I won't be going back. -
Review from J P.
Toronto, ON
9/6/2011
Food here is very mediocre to me. I've really had much better Italian food elsewhere.
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Review from Michelle R.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 8/8/2011
I have been several times since my last review and while I still recommend Five Doors North, I will probably take a hiatus. The food (I think) has gone down in quality and they never change their menu - even though it's handwritten to make us think it's new each night. I find the food pricey and the small servings too big to be true small plates (like the pasta dishes). The ambiance is still excellent though and don't get me wrong - the food is good, but I no longer seek this place out.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/10/2011
I highly recommend this place. The food is delicious and constantly changing, so you never know what… Read more »
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Review from Mimi C.
2/15/2010
Surprised this spot would be so mobbed on a Saturday night, esp. with so many other great restos in Toronto. But crowded it was, and I managed to secure a bar stool all my own. The vino I selected was one of my faves, Montepulciano, which I'd been slugging down earlier at Squirly's. It came in a big drinking glass and not a wineglass, and I always feel like I'm getting more wine that way (though I'm probably not).
I started with the roasted beet salad with scallion aioli and lotus chips, a wise choice and a delicious one. I was torn for my next course and asked the bartender what she'd recommend, mentioning that I was a semi-vegetarian who ate fish. She suggested the grilled sardines, which I'd been thinking about ordering. Well, I now think she suggested them because they were so bad that no one was ordering them and they had to get rid of them! They were HUGE (considering that I'd only eaten the tiny canned sardines in the past), and they had HEADS. I quickly asked her to please remove the heads because they were upsetting me. Head removal couldn't save them, as they were possibly the boniest fish I'd ever eaten....and they tasted nothing like the canned sardines I'd had before. WHY didn't I go with the avocado bruschetta I'd thought about....their bread was baked with rosemary and impossible to stop eating. I can only imagine how tasty it would've been with avocado....Next time!Listed in: Not New York
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Review from Jasmine L.
North York, ON
4/11/2010
I love everything on the menu here. Each entree is impeccably prepared and the flavours are perfect! The portions are just the right size, and the prices are very reasonable for the quality. The flourless chocolate cake is to die for!
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Review from Ktimene G.
1/16/2009
This is my FAVORITE restaurant in TO: warm, buzzing atmosphere, an excellent menu including dishes such as polenta with goat cheese and sundried tomatoes (more like a souffle it was so sooo creamy and melt in your mouth!!), grilled calamari, rapini, perfect brussel sprouts with pancetta, and flourless chocolate cake. We never wanted to leave. It strikes that rare balance of being romantic while also being kind of loud. Every bite was delish, and the prices were beyond reasonable. I can't wait to go back for brunch. The host staff was so friendly. I felt as if I were visiting some sort of italian family reunion. LOVED IT!
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Review from N. C.
Toronto, ON
1/4/2010
An excellent restaurant to meet a couple of friends for dinner. The place is small and noisy--but with an appropriately lively atmosphere. The staff know how to deal with the number of tables and many little dishes you can order. A great wine list with a varied selection of dishes--some of which change on a regular basis and a number that are always on the menu. Go for the polenta, rapini, sardines and fresh fishes available. The lemon tart is fantastic. Beware of the fact that you might have to wait before being seated. Overall, the most urbane dining on the Eglinton Avenue West strip.
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Review from mike w.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 3/2/2010
Service was great. It was prompt, it was friendly, and it was helpful. I appreciated the details that the waiter provided and the time he took to let me know about the yummy tomato jam. Water glasses were refilled promptly and he let us know that our entrees were on the way. It was obvious that he didn't know that dinner was on the house (at least until the end of the meal) so it was reassuring to know that his attention came without any prior knowledge.
But I think the biggest change came from the food. It was delicious and served piping hot as my friend pointed out to me on numerous occasions throughout the meal. My calamari was perfectly cooked and I did enjoy the spicy tomato jam. I was also impressed with the way the risotto cooked - perfectly al dente. I had a bite of the pork chop and it was very juicy. I was also very impressed with the cheesecake. I like the texture of the nuts in the crust and the rhubarb compote provided a nice balance.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/1/2010
After one of the worst restaurant experiences in recent memory, it's hard to believe that there are… Read more »
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Review from Zubin D.
Toronto, ON
10/24/2009
absolutely delicious and the price was reasonable. what more could you ask for? had venison shank (one of their many specials of the day) and it was cooked to perfection. started with an onion and cheese sauce thingy (its a side on the menu) and ate that with the never ending bread and it was gooooooood. i highly recommend this place.
