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George
Category: Restaurants Canadian (New) Canadian (New) [Edit]
111 Queen St EToronto, ON M5C 1S2
Neighbourhoods: Corktown, Downtown Core
(416) 863-6006
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Classy, Upscale, Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
21 reviews for George
Review Highlights
"Great food( tasting menu), wonderful selection of wine with..."
(in 7 reviews)
"Wine pairings are thoughtful - short pours are recommended."
(in 3 reviews)
"...truly delivered a great dining experience, without all the..."
(in 3 reviews)
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21 reviews in English
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Review from Kerstin B.
Toronto, ON
11/18/2011
The best place for business lunches in the city. Intimate without being too close for comfort, attentive waiters that are knowledgeable and let you go as quickly or slowly as you like.
The menu changes fairly frequently; seasonal offerings are given a new twist almost weekly and the wine list is very comprehensive. By far one of their best dishes is the Tuna Tartare, which can come with pears, apples, ginger or lentils depending on the season. The waitstaff are very familiar with the menu, and I've never had an experience where they've steered me wrong when asking for suggestions.
The décor is friendly but refined - the chairs are super-comfortable and two hours of lunch passes by very quickly. It's a real treat to eat at George, and I couldn't recommend it more highly. -
Review from Charlotte W.
North York, ON
12/19/2011
It's hard to believe that George restaurant is located close to Moss Park, which I believe, is considered to be one of the lower income neighbourhoods of Toronto. As I was trying to cross the street to George, an old, haggard man was shouting he was going to kill people while spitting on the ground and waving his arms furiously. Dramatic introduction.
Intro. The restaurant was already very busy at 7pm and I spotted my friends in a circular table by the exit. I had to ask my boyfriend to check my coat as we by-passed the hostess. No one immediately came by and I was starting to get antsy. When I had made my reservations I told the hostess that everyone in the table wanted to participate in the 7 course tasting menu. A waiter soon came up and I mentioned to him that we "were ready to start." He told me one moment as he went to grab the menu's. Anyways, it was a moot point because as soon as he finished handing out the menu's, I said we wanted to participate in the tasting menu with wine pairing.
Food. It was interesting as for each set of the tasting menu, 5 of us would get different plates of food. I liked that idea as it kept it interesting, but it also kind of sucked if your friend received a plate of food that you preferred over yours. In truth, I have no idea how the waiters decide who gets which plate. The wine was nothing special in my opinion, but it did go well with the food.
Service. It was very efficient but there was no one main waiter who made the night. You know the one that jokes, keeps it lights, is so personable that you wouldn't mind leaving a hunk of a tip...For each set of the tasting menu, different waiters would come and explain the dish. The only guy who would remain the same was the sommelier, but he was there to explain the wine...not participate in banter with the table.
All in all, I am glad I tried George out. The food was all very delicious, but I think I was expecting something more WOW, especially for the price. I wouldn't come out of my way to host a birthday event at George again (which was what this event was about). I would, however, like to try the patio during the summer, but definitely with their regular menu.
The 7 course tasting menu with wine pairing is not cheap, and actually, one of the most expensive tasting menu's I have had in Toronto. Something you should try, but once is enough. -
Review from Michael C.
Scarborough, ON
10/28/2011
I absolutely love this place!!!!
By far my favorite restaurant in the city! The food is outstanding that the waitstaff really get to know you personally, I went on two separate dining occasions and the waiter remembered me and that I like a certain type of wine and brought it to me as part of my meal. Talk about service!! I've recommended this place to numerous friends/family and even casual acquaintances.
The nice features about this restaurants layout is that is has a large open kitchen with a plating area which can be viewed from the chef's table available by request or reservation. The second nice dining experience is a small private room that they have that can be closed off if you're looking for that special dining experience. I've also heard but never experienced that they have an outdoor patio which I'm dying to try one of these days.
It's definitely one of those places you bring people for special occasions or entertain visitors or business associates as it's quiet enough to enjoy but the place doesn't seem like it's on it's last legs.
The restaurant has three different prices for their tasting menu 5,7,10 courses starting at $90 per person up to $130.
Parking is found via a general Public parking lot across the street and accepts major credit cards.
I would definitely go back to George again if not for the great food and ambiance then definitely the attention they give every customer that walks in the door. -
Review from Sharky L.
Toronto, ON
10/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
We had the 7 course dinner with wine pairing. The food was absolutely amazing and it took us almost 5 hours, well worth the $200 a person. There was 6 of us and each course had 3 different dishes so they made a total 21 different dishes and had almost just as many wines. Maybe we got VIP treatment because we are friends with the manager?
I'm not going to go in detail about each dish because I don't really remember or didn't even know what it was but it was amazing. I would totally recommend but make sure you budget the time.
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was that I wasn't totally able to appreciate all the great food and wine but if you are a foodie or a wine connoisseur, this will be heaven for you. -
Review from Bahi K.
Scarborough, ON
7/24/2011
My cousin had his wedding lunch reception here after his wedding at City Hall (just down the street) and he couldn't have picked a better venue. The space is gorgeous and intimate. Upon arrival, we were ushered into the back patio, which despite the shadow and trees was actually hotter than it was in the street (because of the lack of air flow). Nonetheless, the lemonade cocktails that were being served were quite refreshing and soon made us forget the heat.
We were served some scrumptious hors d'œuvre, and before we knew it, we found ourselves being ushered back into the air conditioned confines of the restaurant. The seating was well organized and the service was okay considering the size of the party being served. My meal was quite satisfying, with the highlight being the main course of cornish hen.
The experience was enough to whet my appetite for George, which appears to be one of the city's hidden gems. I would definitely consider going back there to sample the restaurant's other culinary offerings. -
Review from Raahul K.
Toronto, ON
8/29/2011
George is a great place for groups, with an excellent tasting menu and top quality service.
I ate at George in the middle of the week with a group of ~10 colleagues from work. We were not able to get the private room but they were very accommodating in having a table set up for us both inside and outside. We decided to sit outside (note: this was not something we requested, so it was great that we had the choice). The outdoor patio area at George is very secluded and has a wonderful ambiance.
Pre-dinner cocktails were excellent, specially their artisanal cocktails which were done very well.
For dinner, we went with the 7 course tasting menu, with wine pairings. The food itself I would give a 4.5*, it was most certainly up there and the assortment was excellent. Not a single bad dish (although dessert was underwhelming). Wine I would give 4*, great for the price but with 7 glasses, at only $80 per person, you can't expect the finest wines. Complimented the food very well though.
Service was spot on, although they had the benefit of it being a quiet night, there was always someone on-hand and they were accommodating to all of our needs.
Overall a 5* experience and highly recommended, particularly for groups, or those looking for a tasting menu. -
Review from Silvano G.
York, ON
Updated - 11/6/2011
A plus. Great service. Tried all 3 courses amazing taste and presentation
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/31/2011
what a hidden gem. Love the small plate multiple course concept. Some dishes have sauces that are a… Read more »
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Review from tokill a.
Etobicoke, ON
9/15/2010
I'm not realllly into "Poncey Cuisine", so I knew that this might be a bit..well, traumatic for me. It was my Wife's Birthday, so I decided to put my own neurosis aside and make a go of it.
The Atmposphere was very non-pretentious - Score 1 Point there.
Waitstaff - knowledgeable, accomidating, friendly - Score 1 Point there.
Food Presentation - Score 1 Point there.
We had the 5 course tasting menu. Never really sure what you're going to get - so if could be awesome, or...not. At times it was like going into the Amazon Rainforest, surrounded by lush greenery, and seeing a Blue Frog. You reach out to touch it, then find out it's poisoness. Bit of an abstract analogy, I admit...I appreciate what they were going for, but it was more style than substance. -
Review from Yvette L.
Toronto, ON
5/26/2010
I recently attended a wedding at George and was impressed by the quality of the food and the superb and professional service. Weddings do not normally command the best from the kitchen, but they delivered finely crafted and delicious dishes to over 70 people without missing a beat.
It is hard to believe that the basically open kitchen is right next to the dining area - it is pleasantly quiet despite the level of activity!
Some servers were gracious, some were perfunctory, but all performed their jobs professionally. We were very impressed by the friendly bar staff. -
Review from Ben Y.
Toronto, ON
9/22/2009
George is truly hidden gem in this city of high profile restaurants; where the hype is usually all they bring to the table. George truly delivered a great dining experience, without all the hype and pretentiousness that usually comes with fine-dining in this city.
The tasting menu is the only way to go, we went with the 5 course tasting menu for $85 and we were blown away by every course. The tasting menu was setup so that you get just enough food from every course, I found the serving sizes perfect for a 5 course meal. The combination of hot and cold elements on each plate made every course more interesting than the other. Everything we had was delicious, especially the foie gras course. Even with a generous portion of foie gras, I didn't feel the dish was too heavy or powerful.
Wine pairings are a must, our waiter was very knowledgeable and attentive. I don't think I ever noticed my glass of water less than half full.
The restaurant itself is very beautiful and dimly lit, perfect for a romantic evening with a date. If you're a foodie you will truly enjoy dining here, you can really tell how much work goes into each little element that goes on the plate, and they all seem to work well together.
I've also been to George for lunch and it is also very good, just make sure you give yourself plenty of time for lunch if you plan to have the lunch tasting menu. Hey, I don't think there's anything wrong with being a glutton in the middle of the day. (as long as you don't have to go back to work after) -
Review from Angela L.
1/4/2011
It pains me to write this review. I was so looking forward to my meal at George, especially since it was a special occasion dinner to celebrate mine and my twin sister's birthday, as well as to celebrate my recent graduation. Unfortunately, it was a huge letdown.
I booked our table weeks in advance, and clearly noted that it was a birthday dinner and that my sister and I would both be ordering the vegetarian tasting menu. We arrived slightly early for our reservation, but were seated immediately given that the restaurant had yet to fill up. The space is lovely and only contributed to our anticipation of a really stellar meal.
Our "server" came over and greeted us shortly after we were seated, and double checked that we would still be ordering the vegetarian tasting menu. His attitude towards us was slightly condescending as he remarked how "cute" he thought it was that we were dining together for our birthday. Granted, we were probably the youngest people in the room that evening, but this just made it doubly rude. He came over again after putting in our food order to take our drink orders. I ordered the George Sidecar, and my sister asked innocently for a celebratory "glass of champagne". Without confirming our order, he hurried away. Our drinks arrived some time later; he had brought my sister the (much) more pricey champagne available by the glass and myself the double cocktail. Of course, given that we ourselves hadn't specified, we did not complain, but we found it in poor taste for him to make these assumptions without double checking with us. Fortunately, my cocktail was delicious and well crafted.
When the food arrived, we continued to be disappointed. Portions were reasonable, but many of the flavours did not seem to work well together. Perhaps those who aren't vegetarian fare better with the tasting menu here. There was only one dish out of five that I was really pleased with, aside from the cheese course, and my sister fared equally as poorly. Our server did not seem to be genuinely interested in our well-being, and unenthusiastically asked for our names and wished us a happy birthday at the end of our meal. Luckily the company was good and the space lovely, because the food and the service were extremely disappointing. -
Review from Christopher B.
7/3/2009
Here's the deal with George: it IS expensive. If you're going to be bothered by that fact during or after your meal then don't bother. The chef and staff offer a unique take on food, wine and the dining experience - the dishes are unusual, small and designed for foodies who appreciate the creativity and effort that goes into their preparation.
I admit to being something of a skeptic - would I have discerned the difference between the two fiddleheads served with my wild boar? Likely not. Nor is the businessman in me particularly pleased with the return on my investment on the following day.
On the other hand: the setting IS quite romantic - particularly the patio when the weather cooperates - and the food IS delicious. Wine pairings are thoughtful - short pours are recommended. And the staff is attentive and professional.
So on occasion I'm quite happy to embrace this eclectic, romantic, and slightly silly restaurant, and simply have fun with it and my friends. -
Review from tim tim j.
10/10/2011
I'd have to say this place is in my top 5 tasting menus and wine pairing. The value to quality is second to none. took into account all dietary restrictions with no questions asked. flawless service. Overall I'd say Brilliant.
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Review from Nick P.
Toronto, ON
11/27/2010
Exceptional cuisine, service, and atmosphere. Wonderful dining room, friendly professional accommodating service. Dishes are well thought out, and wonderfully executed. I always leave wanting to come back. Superb wine list, wide menu. Easily rivals some of the best restos in the city and beyond.
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Review from Erin H.
Toronto, ON
8/26/2008 1 photo
Heavily recommended by my bigwig brothers, George Restaurant was at the top of my places-I-need-to-eat list when I headed over there with my best friend - cash in our wallets and tapeworms in our bellies.
Having flirted with the friendly staff, with a nice cocktail in hand, and a lovely seat on the tranquil urban oasis patio, I could have called it a night right there and been happy. But that is not what we came for, so both my B.F and I went for the tasting menu (apparently there is no other way to go according to all sources). I am what the lords of language have now termed a pescetarian, so with title in hand I told the server I could only have a tasting menu of the sea, while my epicurean partner could eat anything he damn well pleased.
Turns out I ate anything my friend pleased and he nearly swam out of George by the end of the meal...meaning of course the waiter confused our orders. I left George, no longer a fake vegetarian and both my friend and I felt we just spent enough money to have flown to Montreal and all we got in return was the airplane food. -
Review from Esther P.
Toronto, ON
11/4/2010
The Ricotta Gnocchi is to die for! It's like eating little clouds straight from heaven. Best gnocchi I've ever had in my life. This place is great, the food is fantastic for lack of a better adjective, and the service is good. I can't wait to go back.
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Review from rob d.
Toronto, ON
9/23/2009
Great place....food is excellent...decor eclectic and elegant...truly "hidden" amongst a neighbourgood of discarded needles and pawnbrokers...parking lot is across the street...so if you are a fast runner...your chances are 50:50 of getting to the restaurant without being mugged...but if you make it...you will be rewarded with a great dinner in a very cool atmosphere.
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Review from Hratch P.
Toronto, ON
8/9/2008
With Susur gone, I'd say George now offers the best set menu meal I've experienced in the city. Expect a fresh, creative menu every day that will blow you away, with amuse bouches peppered in between and service that makes you feel appreciated. The food style is somewhat modern but mixes in some traditional comfort.
In the summer months, their calm back patio makes the experience all the better. -
Review from willi p.
Markham, ON
11/13/2009
Great food. Innovative menu. Excellent service. Torontonians must give it a try.
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Review from Ryan V.
Toronto, ON
12/27/2008
Erin H must have gone there on an off night. I went there and had a fantastic experience. Try and get the private table if you can..I think it is #34? Great food( tasting menu), wonderful selection of wine with great service. Best part is;they do not rush you through your meal.The staff is very professional and the food and decor is top notch!
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Review from Orchid J.
Toronto, ON
4/16/2009
George is a pleasure to dine at - one of the best kept secrets in downtown Toronto. Only steps away from the Eaton Centre, it offers a serene and classy environment with a quality of dining that is of great value. Meals use simple ingredients crafted in delicate presentations. Portions are not large, but very tasty and memorable. Chef Loseto is magnificent. Perfect for a romantic dinner or business lunch! Patio in back is great.
