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Scaramouche Restaurant Pasta Bar & Grill
Category: Restaurants French French [Edit]
1 Benvenuto PlToronto, ON M4V 2L1
Neighbourhood: South Hill
(416) 961-8011
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Valet
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Classy, Upscale
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
38 reviews for Scaramouche Restaurant Pasta Bar & Grill
Review Highlights
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"I went there with my friends for Lobsterlicious special." In 6 reviews -
"Wine list was fairly priced." In 3 reviews -
"The lobster risotto and the lobster bisque." In 3 reviews
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38 reviews in English
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Review from Heather G.
Toronto, ON
3/22/2012
Excellent food and service. The decor is a bit dated, but the gorgeous view of the city stole my attention. This restaurant is the perfect place to impress a date or even a client. It's quite pricey, but it's definitely well worth it.
I had the Yellowfin Tuna to start and it was absolutely delicious and full of flavour. For my main I had the steelhead salmon that came with the crispiest, most delicious skin I have ever had. For dessert I had the Honeycrisp Apple Kouign Aman, which was the perfect way to end the meal. It was crispy and buttery, and not too sweet. This was definitely one of the best meals I have ever eaten. No morsel went to waste. I can't wait to come back here! -
Review from Mina S.
Mississauga, ON
5/23/2012
Incredible service, beautiful food. Simple decor.
Our meals were awesome... we had the pasta appetizer (amazing!) and the lobster..and partridge (just ok) and mother had the halibut (fabulous!)...
I do have to say though, the coconut cream pie I felt was a little overrated. My mother ordered the mango almond tart and quite frankly that was more impressive in my opinion. -
Review from Precilla C.
Scarborough, ON
2/28/2012 10 photos
I chose Scaramouche for my Valentine's Day celebration for two reasons. Firstly, one of my friends always raves about their coconut cream pie, and I wanted to see if it lived up to all that hype. And secondly, restaurant was running a $62 three-course Lobsterlicious special and I just can't seem to resist these prix fixe menus.
Three types of bread were served, and I had one of each. One small complaint was that the butter was really hard to spread onto the bread.
The bread basket was quickly followed by a complimentary amuse bouche: prosciutto with winter lettuce, toasted pine nuts, tarragon relish and Meyer lemon aioli. Everything tasted pretty good together, but it didn't wow me.
Here are my picks for the Lobsterlicious menu:
My choice of starter was the Dungeness crab ravioli with mustard greens, bok choy, radish and a uni butter sauce. The bok choy made the overall dish feel very Asian. The single raviolo was packed with crab meat, and the uni butter sauce was absolutely scrumptious. After demolishing everything else on the plate, I soaked up all the remaining sauce with bread.
For my main, I opted for lobster gnocchi. Oddly enough, I loved everything in my lobster gnocchi that was not lobster- the snap peas, carrots, pearl onions, beet, and herb gnocchi! The vegetables were bright and vibrant, and I especially enjoyed the sweet beets. On top of that, the gnocchi was absolutely lovely, as light as a pillow. I also thought that the presentation was stunning with all the colourful veggies.
My gnocchi was accompanied with a Parisienne lobster thermidor sauce, topped with toasted bread crumbs and gruyère cheese. On paper, this was everything that I should love- rich, cheesy lobster sauce topped with bread crumbs and cheese. Every spoonful contained large chunks of lobster meat. I couldn't believe that I could ever have too much lobster, but this was the case for me! Everything was so rich.
For desserts, I went with the Araguani chocolate mousse with earl grey ice cream, lemon curd, honey tangerines and blood orange reduction. Clearly, I don't know my chocolate well, because Araguani is a 72% cocoa dark chocolate bar made by Valrhona, one of best chocolatiers in the world. I think the "mousse" was a misnomer, because it was more like a dark chocolate bar filled with chocolate mousse. As expected, it was too dark for my liking, although the earl grey ice cream was amazing!
Here's what my bf ordered:
Lobster bisque to start. The soup was topped with armagnac cream and chives. For me, the soup was intensely rich, and the armagnac on top of that was overwhelming. I was slightly put off by so much alcohol in the soup.
8 oz filet mignon with porcini whipped potatoes, wild mushrooms, French green beans and Bordelaise sauce. I particularly loved the whipped potatoes, which packed an incredible punch of mushroom flavour. The steak was also executed very well.
For desserts, he ordered Scaramouche's famous coconut cream pie with white chocolate shavings and dark chocolate sauce. This was like heaven in a slice of pie! Even though it was impossibly decadent and rich, I just couldn't stop taking more and more bites! The white chocolate and coconut were such a great pairing, and the pie crust was perfectly flaky and delicate. Not great for the waistline, but it was so phenomenal that it was almost worth every calorie!
Who says you can't get full from fine dining? I was absolutely stuffed at the end of the meal! It was definitely a memorable experience, but I don't think I'll be returning anytime soon. After all, it was one of the most expensive meals that I've ever eaten, and I can't justify the price despite the generally positive experience. That said, I certainly wouldn't mind coming back for a slice of coconut cream pie! It was truly to die for! -
Review from Kyle G.
Markham, ON
2/23/2012
WOW!!! Simply the best food and service I've ever experienced.
As soon as you step into the restaurant, you are greeted with a friendly hostess.
Was here during the lobster deal but I also ordered fois gras to start, followed with a steak.
While we waited for our food, we were served with complimentary salad that was very well presented and very refreshing.
The fois gras is toasted to perfection and very delicious to say the least. The steak was not the best I have had but definitely top notch.
The waiter was very courteous and helpful when it came to wine selections. Made sure our table was clean, cups are filled, and served the courses accordingly and timely. Hats off to the restaurant for hiring such professional staffs who are not just pretty faces.
The furnitures and decor are a little dated but provided a very comfortable setting. You won't feel pretentious and patrons seem to be really relaxed without the snobby feeling you would find at other restaurants that tries to be high class.
I would recommend this restaurant to anyone couple that are celebrating something but making frequent visits could be a little too rich for many's blood.
Either way, you will not be disappointed.
Cheers! -
Review from Justin B.
Etobicoke, ON
2/27/2012
A hidden star, Scarmouche delivers flavor and service to an upscale Forest hill clientele. The ambiance is a but outdated but the food is excellent and I feel like a king. Voted as best restaurant out of 100 by Joanna Kate's in 2011, I tend to prefer the more trendy establishments as it suits my age an therefor disagree personally with her list.
We ate the appetizer pasta, steak tartar, lamb, partirage and Ontario rhubarb. -
Review from Helen Y.
Vancouver, BC
1/25/2012
i think Splendido,and jacobs were my only fav high end restaurants in toronto but i think i have a new fav!
I had the Lobster set menu- was delicious.. everything.. appetizer scallops, grilled lobster for main and dessert(apple and very boozy ice cream)
the restaurant is def not modern but the view from the window was beautiful, service A+, wine selection was A+.. -
Review from Behrouz M.
Toronto, ON
1/9/2012
Food: A+
Service: A+
Food presentation: A+
Atmosphere: A+
Prices: worth every penny!
Recommended?: Yes
Scaramouche is arguably the best high end restaurant in Toronto. I'm super picky about everything but I like everything about Scaramouche:
1. Location, location, location! Not really in the midst of crazy downtown but not really uptown either. It's in a pretty quite, in a little side street off Avenue Rd, in an area hidden from the rest of the city with a spectacular view of downtown Toronto.
2. Food is amazing. And forget the menu... you tell them what you want and how you want it and chances are they'll make it for you, and it will be better than what you had imagined. I had a lobster tail to start and then moved to a rack of lamb. Both fantastic!
3. Service, awesome! Very attentive, and quick even on a busy night, and as I mentioned they make what you want.
Yes, it is a bit on the expensive side but I'm not going to complain. It's worth every penny.
Bottom line, I highly recommend Scaramouche! 5 and a half star!Listed in: 5 Stars!
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Review from Tiffany G.
Toronto, ON
2/5/2012
When food is $40 + I have two requirements in my book: 1) The presentation must be phenomenal and 2) the food must give me an orgasm in my mouth. Unfortunately, my Elk entree fell short of these two expectations.
Though, the elk was cooked to medium-rare perfection and it was wrapped in a flavorful bacon crust, it was not $46 spectacular. It was more like $25 spectacular.
I enjoyed my meal - but it did not tantalize my senses which I think at these steep prices, is a necessary requirement.
My boyfriend had the filet Mignon. He said it was probably the best Filet Mignon he ever had.
HOWEVER, the Coconut Cream pie was to die for. Light and creamy topped with white chocolate shavings. It was the show stopper of the entire evening.
The view is very nice but the decor is dated. I liked its hidden location but I feel like Scaramouche needs a renovation that would reflect both price and culinary creativity. Though, the service was impeccable.
A restaurant of this caliber has so much potential. But, it needs to be demonstrated in all aspects of the dining experience. Instead of listing martini's made with Absolut vodka upgrade them to Grey Goose. Instead of a main-stream fine dining presentation, go above and beyond. Perhaps, channel some molecular gastronomy tactics to give it some pizzazz.
The hype attracted me but the overall experience + food did not exceed my expectations therefore I will not be returning. At $46 I want innovation not main-stream boredom. -
Review from Natalie T.
East York, ON
1/11/2012
VIBE
Well, what can we say about this institution that has been in the industry for over 30 years that hasn't really already been said? First of all it really is all about its location. Benvenuto Place is the place of mythical Toronto. You don't believe it exists until you go and once you go, you're at a condo building. A restaurant in a condo building? Yes. But what a genius idea because that view is phenomenal.
The secret -- it's down the street from the high school Del La Salle. Who knew?
If you want to see the CN Tower and the Toronto skyline in all of its glory, this is the place you go. It's where you're brokering that deal; making that proposal (or accepting it; or not accepting it) and celebrating some momentous occasions. And yes, there is a balcony. I wish I went out on it but I felt a little bit like a kid on Christmas Day excited to see the view I had not yet seen of my beloved city and didn't want to break through the door. So I stayed as mature as I could.
It is the one of the few old school, classic white linen type of restaurants left in Toronto but I will say that the pasta bar section has bit of a relaxed attitude. And the decor accents are modern. Another note: the seating is very comfortable.
And yes, the restaurant has two sections 1. The Pasta Bar 2. The regular restaurant.
But let's not confuse "pasta bar" with all-you-can-eat and pick-your-own-sauce styles a la Tucker's Marketplace (one reason I love Tucker's Marketplace; I digress). It's just the more "relaxed" side of the restaurant with a few more pasta options than the fancier fare of the other section. You get a traditional menu and all.
Service is A Plus. The servers are professional and articulate without being stuffy, though at times I felt there were a few more hands than needed clearing off the table. (I get it: teamwork).
WE ATE
We came on a mission for coconut cream pie and coconut cream pie we ate. Soft, white delicious, creamy stuffing with just the right amount of coconut flavouring you'd feel like you were in a Beach Boys video (anyone? Kokomo?). It is the Messiah of all desserts and we were glad we came for the quest. We ate the ginormous pie (three of us shared one dessert) and we savored and appreciated it down to its crust for what it was. It really does deserve punctuation for the end of each word. Coconut. Cream. Pie.
But of course, with our bunch of food lovers, we got distracted by the main menu and decided to go all out. Two friends had the Yellow Fin Tuna, which seemed light and refreshing; my friend had the Eggplant Caponata --garlic crostini/whipped buffalo ricotta/fine olive oil/Maldon sea salt. I was lucky to have a little taste and the power of flavour in this dish was strong and memorable. If I go back, I'd have this.
My dish was:
Fresh Maltagliati Pasta -- wild mushrooms/spinach/leeks/toasted bread crumbs/Parmesan porcini sauce. The pasta was a wide noodle and was easy to sop off all the sauce. I really liked the texture of the dish; the creaminess of the sauce, leeks and spinach that complimented the crunchiness of the bread crumbs. And it smelled so delicious. But though it did have flavour, I wanted to put more pepper on it. It was just missing that hint. It was a solid dish but I would try something else next time.
OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK
One of those places you can't not visit if you live in Toronto. A true classic in a sea of more casual, modern restaurants in the city and an absolutely spectacular view. There's a reason that Frogget's customers rallied for him when the condo owners were trying to raise his rent and push him out of the building.
A Note: the famous Lobsterlicious is back from January 9, 2012 for $62. Sounds amazing! http://www.scaramouche... -
Review from Carissa S.
Toronto, ON
2/27/2012
Amazing food, even more amazing service.
Went to Scaramouche to celebrate my boyfriend's birthday. I got the Lobsterlicious prix fixe meal, while he got the Quebec Duck as a starter and the Elk as the entree. The dishes were delicious and we especially enjoyed the foie gras that was part of the Quebec Duck dish. For an additional $5, we were able to "upgrade" the dessert (included as part of the prix fixe menu) to the coconut cream pie. Scaramouche's coconut cream pie was heavenly, with just the right balance of coconut, custard, and cream. The shaved white chocolate on top was DIVINE.
I must mention that our waiter, upon hearing me mention that it was my boyfriend's birthday, went out of his way to ask the kitchen to add a special "Happy Birthday" message on the edge of the dessert plate. The coconut cream pie was served with the birthday message, which was written using chocolate sauce, along with a lit up birthday candle. Simply AMAZING service - the small gesture made us feel very special and well taken care of. -
Review from Christian P.
Toronto, ON
2/5/2012
4.5
Nice staff, nice view on TO, but pretty noisy when packed (you will have to shout to talk with friends on the other edge of your table if you are seated in the comfy "couches"). very well done meals, tasty, fresh, perfectly cooked, in quite generous amounts (you will leave full as opposed to some such other classy places like this one), including for lobster! Why not five...? I do not know... I missed the wooed factor, perhaps would I have been happier with more sauce on the meals (or at least the option to get more). Or perhaps because the service was quite long that busy day I went there. Would I come back? probably/surely, for a select dinner. -
Review from Michael Y.
Toronto, ON
10/21/2011
Went to Scaramouche, treated by a friend as a birthday gift. I'm lucky to have such amazing friends! I have recently been disappointed by some highly-rated restaurants and was afraid that Scaramouche would fall short. It didn't.
Entering into the restaurant, closer inspection under bright lights would reveal a slightly dated decor, but we weren't there for modern furniture or innovative lighting - we were there to enjoy one of the most storied and well-reviewed restaurants in the city, if not the nation. Besides, the view of the city skyline from our table more than made up for it.
The dining room was casually elegant. The air on a thursday night was light, conversational, and as not hushed or reserved as I would have expected.
We decided to share our three courses. Or it was decided for me. I can't recall. Either way, we decided each of the three courses democratically, picking our top two dishes and splitting them 50/50.
For an appetizer, we ordered the Nova Scotia lobster and the Quebec duck plate. These two appetizers balanced each other well; the duck plate was closer to a charcuterie plate. Although the fois gras terrine was the advertised highlight of the plate, we both agreed that the duck breast pastrami could be eaten all day, every day. The lobster dish had the same result - the lobster was perfectly cooked, but the outstanding item (for me) was the feather-light gnocchi.
For our main courses, we chose the roast partridge and the blue sea bass. The partridge was perfect, especially the leg which was cooked confit. The sea bass seemed a bit overcooked, but not a being frequent orderer of fish makes me a bit hesitant to knock a star or two off the rating! Otherwise the sea bass dish was delicious, especially the saffron white wine herb nage which bathed the fish and squid.
By the time we made it to dessert, a single order of coconut cream pie was all we could fit into our extremely satiated bellies. As advertised, the coconut cream pie cannot be missed. Not only was it tasty, but the serving size was gargantuan.
A great wine list complimented the incredible food and we enjoyed a glass of Pinot Bianco and a Malbec, each a part of a wine list which was fairly priced, much to my surprise.
Service-wise, we were very well looked without being overshadowed. From the coat check to the water refills and the table side manner, service is familiar, attentive, and professional without pretension.
Bottom line - based on my visit to Scaramouche and that of every friend who I've talked to about their visits there, I can say that it was a near-perfect meal. The entire experience - food, drink, service, view, and company - made it one of the most memorable meals of my life. -
Review from Mira B.
Toronto, ON
9/6/2011
My lovely boyfriend took me here for our Anniversary dinner. I'm reading all these reviews about Lobsterlicious - which I'm sad we missed!
Regardless, this restaurant encompasses why we pay more to eat at a fancy restaurant. The service is impeccable (5 stars).
It's unfortunate i can't seem to remember what the appetizer I ordered was called but it was amazing. It was off-menu/special of the day. It was a light pasta with pesto and tomato and onions and mushrooms, etc. My main was the Patridge - which was mediocre as I felt the meat was really bland/flavourless. Regardless, I still loved this restaurant!
My boyfriend ordered the soup of the day and the Lamb. He loved it! Oh and for desserts we got the Coconut Creme Pie and Creme Brulee - amazing!
The view is nice added touch too :). -
Review from Betsey B.
Toronto, ON
1/31/2012
Scaramouche is housed on a hill with a wall of windows along the south side showcasing a beautiful view of the city; in summer we time our reservation so that we can watch the sunset, unfortunately in the winter months that's a wee bit early for dinner. The décor is understated and contemporary; crisp white tablecloths accented by grey velvet chairs and banquettes, allowing the focus to remain on chef Kith Froggett's beautiful food.
We were there a couple Friday's ago with a girlfriend of mine (just getting around to the review now). We took two bottles from our cellar; the first a 2007 Williams Selyam Zinfandel and the second a 2003 Chateau D'Arche Sauternes to share with dessert. Our meal opened with an amuse bouche of Kabocha Squash soup with candied hazelnuts, delicious. I love the amuse bouche, it's like a little hello, welcome and thank you for dining with us from the chef.
My girlfriend started with the Quebec Duck, recommended by our server since she couldn't quite make up her mind; such is the case when everything on the menu makes your mouth water. Hubby and I both chose the Dungeness Crab Ravioli to begin. The duck plating was deconstructed and elegant with foie gras terrine, duck breast pastrami, pickled wild leeks, griotte cherries, brioche toast, port jelly, pomegranate molasses and French walnuts, it was exquisite. Our crab ravioli was served with a pan seared scallop, mustard greens, bok choy, radish and an uni butter sauce; there was one ravioli but it was huge and there was no shortage of crab stuffing, excellent. I followed with the Fresh Partidge; I like to try something different, that I can't get, or wouldn't order anywhere else when I'm at a good restaurant. The other mains looked wonderful but for me this was unquestionably the standout. The partridge was served with the roasted breast and a cripy leg confit precut (both were so succulent and tender they just fell apart), a large serving of pan-seared foie gras sat over a perfectly thin potato pancake all atop wild mushrooms, peal onions, fois gras jus and huckleberries. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. I savoured every bite and would have licked the plate clean if there hadn't been a room full of other diners! Hubby had the grilled Nova Scotia Lobster with Asian greens, shitake and honey mushrooms, coconut hurricane broth and ginger sesame mayonnaise; the lobster is served in it's tail but shelled so that you don't have to do any messy work, it was cooked to perfection. The Steelhead Salmon was my girlfriends main choice, with toasted Nori tempura crust, sesame seeds, snap peas, Japanese eggplant, soya-braised shitake, scallions, coriander, soya-lime beurre blanc and fresh chillies; the salmon was flaky and juicy and although she says she doesn't usually finish her entrée her plate was left empty as well.
After all this we were certainly satisfied, but you don't go to Scaramouche and not have dessert....well I don't go to any good restaurant and not have dessert. I'm also not a fan of sharing dessert, which I made clear to my husband very early in our relationship, within the first week or two maybe. I had my heart set on the dessert that Scaramouche is famous for, the in house, from scratch Coconut Cream Pie! This pie is so good that my husband bought a whole one for my birthday party a couple years ago. Yes, you can pre-order them for take away; that's how popular this pie is. As legend has it they attempted to take it off the menu many years ago but there was a revolt from the regular customers, and so to them I give my sincere gratitude.
The other desserts on the menu looked divine as well, the Honeycrisp Apple Kougin Amann in caramelized puff pastry with prune and Armagnac ice cream and apple cider reduction spoke to me, but I knew I would have dessert envy if I didn't have my coconut cream pie. And so it was, in all it's glory, the coconut cream like whipped clouds piled several inches high on the lightest flakiest crust that you'd swear it was puff pastry all topped with a generous portion of shaved white chocolate. Luscious, scrumptious, HEAVEN! It was only my girlfriend that strayed from the pie, choosing the Manjari Chocolate Cremeux on top a chocolate macaron with coffee ice cream and a chocolate tuile which was so tasty hubby said he would likely order this next time.
Usually we ask our servers name, but we seemed to neglect this last night, which was too bad because she was excellent. I would like to be seated in her section again. She was warm, attentive, and had a good sense of humor; we like to have fun when we go for dinner so we tend to joke around with the servers a bit. We find too often that people who go out to nicer restaurants are stuffy and treat the staff sort of secondary, but we like to make our servers part of our experience, that's part of the fun for us and I think that's why we always get fantastic service.
5 Starts Excellent!! -
Review from Jill H.
9/14/2011
There is a reason why Scaramouche has been around forever!!!!!!!!!! Although the location is a bit bizarre, the food is probably TOPS for any restaurant in Toronto (it really is hard to find a restaurant in Toronto that will blow your socks off! What's wrong with Toronto!?!).
There are two restaurants in Scaramouche -- a more casual bar area and a fancier dining room. I've always been lucky enough to eat in the dining room, and it has never disappointed!!!!!
Make sure you try the home-made tagliatele. They usually have some derivative of the home-made pasta available on their menu...the best is when they pair it with their wild mushrooms.....to DIE for!!!!! But, really, anything on the menu ends up being amazing...I still crave a steak tartar dish they had on the menu last year but never brought back. It was amazing!!!!
Their signature banana cream pie is the BEST in the city!!!! Last time I had it, the crust was a bit tough...but usually this is the reason why we keep coming back. It hasn't changed over the years -- just pure, creamy, decadent yumminess!!!!!!
Yay, Scaramouche -- you have made me a believer that there is actually a wonderful restaurant in Toronto!!!! I hear you may be moving as your lease is up...just make sure you keep the high standard of food, wherever you end up!!! -
Review from Jenne Y.
Toronto, ON
4/5/2011
1 word. Lobsterlicious.
If you missed it this year, be sure to go make reservations next year. I was treated to dinner here for my birthday and it happened to fall during their Lobsterlicious special. We made a reservation in the dining room by the window (too bad we were in the middle of a snow storm, couldn't see too much). The atmosphere was nice and cozy and the fact that there's no strictly enforced dress code was great (not that you want to go dressed as a slob but a nice pair of jeans and a dressy top is very passable).
On to the food! Of course, my boyfriend (G) and I both ordered off the Lobsterlicious prix fix menu. I adore lobster, my boyfriend, not so much but he was willing to try it. I ordered the scallop & lobster risotto, poached lobster with garlic mushroom polenta and had their famous coconut cream pie for dessert. G had the spicy lobster bisque, steamed lobster with potato gnocchi and creme brulee. Oh and a glass of white each.
The lobster risotto and the lobster bisque... to die for. I'm not sure which one I would order the next time we go back. They were both really well prepared and delicious.
We both really liked our entrees, except I think we would have swapped our choices. The polenta was really on the filling side for me, especially after the risotto starter. The 1 & 1/4 pound lobster was de-shelled and cooked extremely well... soft and flavourful. The polenta was really rich and yummy, but I needed some help from G to finish it off.
And dessert? The coconut cream pie was 3 inches high and the slice was nearly the size of my head. Okay, slight exaggeration but huge nonetheless. And coconutty! Again, needed G's help to finish that off too.
Great upscale restaurant, great service, and amazing food. Absolutely no complaints and a delectably satisfied tummy afterward. Fantastic way to celebrate a birthday! -
Review from Jess W.
Toronto, ON
6/6/2011 5 photos
Located in an older apartment building, I was surprised that Google Maps took us here, since it seemed like an odd place for an upscale restaurant! And when we were led down a set of stairs to the dining room, again I was surprised since I knew Scaramouche had a spectacular view of the city (but she was leading us DOWN the stairs!). This place is just full of surprises!
The restaurant was really busy, which wasn't surprising given it was a Saturday night. However, it was a bit louder than I expected in the dining room which sort of took away a bit from the romantic atmosphere.
When we made a reservation, I requested a table with a view. We weren't seated right next to the window, but one table away. We noticed that the couple next to us with the window view were regulars, since they ordered the "usual" and the gentleman had pre-ordered something. They definitely got the special treatment this evening. Oh well!
Anyways onto the food...I started with the spicy steak tartare - hand-cut filet mignon/garlic crostini/watercress ($18). Not very spicy, but really delicious! Some of the best steak tartare I've had. It was so flavourful I really didn't need any of the sauce surrounding it.
My boyfriend ordered the lobster ravioli - cauliflower/spinach/honey mushrooms/double smoked bacon white wine sauce ($22). This dish came with one large stuffed ravioli. Again, another fantastic appetizer. So far, so good!
For my main, I ordered the duck - roasted breast/confit leg/grilled sausage/mustard greens apple whipped parsnip/red wine reduction/Meyer lemon chutney ($39). I enjoyed the confit leg the best. The skin was nice and crisp while the meat was tender and moist. The only thing I didn't finish on my plate was the grilled sausage, which had a very off-putting taste to it, which I can't pinpoint. Not a fan.
My boyfriend's main was the red wine braised beef shortribs - ricotta gnocchi/Brussels sprout leaves/baby white turnip hedgehog mushrooms/whipped fresh horseradish ($37). The shortribs were really tender and tasty. The gnocchi were extremely cheesy if you like them that way... me, not so much.
We ended with their famous coconut cream pie. Even for a person who doesn't like coconut, I really enjoyed this! For those of you interested, I noticed on the menu that they also sell whole cream pies for take-out!Listed in: Splurge
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Review from Boots B.
York, ON
3/10/2012
They are on top of ire game. Food is amazing. Fish and pasta is outstanding. Bread is great, lamb is very good. Appetizer selection, especially salad and lighter options are minimal. But what food! Atmosphere is still circa 1989. It needs some updating.
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Review from bold c.
Toronto, ON
12/31/2010
Do not come here if on a diet. It will be ruined!
The French food is outstanding. The scotch menu simply brilliant. A Wine connoisseur's dream. For top clients and special events. Dress up. This is a romantic place for your special someone! Great for valentines day. The retro 1970's style awesome! The view is why I visit. The hillside setting overlooking the downtown and trees. The pasta bar is somewhat dated. Stick with the formal restaurant but do try the pasta grill if it is busy.
Fish and seafood dishes are my favorites. 'Carpaccio' of Scaramouche Smoked Salmon, Shredded Duck Confit and Yellow fin tuna tartare melt in your mouth. Think Iron chief! Their presentation is "showcase-perfect". The service is flawless.
The desserts are legendary. The coconut pie was wicked and should be outlawed. For $13 the white chocolate shavings/dark chocolate sauce combined with coconut means you can never eat just one slice.
Recommend only your friends.
ps....park two streets down to the right for FREE parking. -
Review from Mumuuu S.
Toronto, ON
10/28/2011
They lay it down right at the 'Mouche.
I have been here three times in about three years. Everytime I love the decor (which is like a magical time capsule to a land where Mordecai Richler and Patrick Bateman might both be at home), and the service (which is friendly but more polished than it is warm).
What I really love is the food, though. The 80's decor might be the beginning of the trip, but the food...that's like...the end of the trip. -
Review from Tina L.
5/11/2011
A friend and I came here for Lobsterlicious a couple of years ago.
There were some good dishes:
+ butter-poached lobster: cauliflower puree with puntarelle and shaved fennel, smoked bacon butter sauce
+ lobster bisque
+ crème brûlée: flavored with bourbon madagascar vanilla beans, raspberry sorbet and langue de chat biscuits
There were some bad dishes:
- lobster and farfalle rigate: leeks, spinach and chard, with lobster tarragon sauce
- pan-roasted sea scallop (too salty, too much lemon zest)
- frozen hazelnut parfait with brown butter snap cookies (not frozen enough, too nutty)
And then there was a really terrible one: venison loin. It's supposed to be one of their best dishes, but it was waaaaaaaay too salty.
Really great waiters/waitresses though - or maybe that's just Canada (people here are ridiculously nice and friendly)! I'll probably be back to give Scaramouche another try. -
Review from Crystal L.
2/17/2009 2 photos
First, I just want to say how difficult it is to get reservations on Valentine's Day. I called more than 2 weeks in advance and the earliest time I could squeeze myself in was at 9:30pm. I figured better later than never though :) Luckily, when they called to confirm my reservation there was a cancellation at 6:30pm (but it wasn't by the window).
Tip: Plan a month ahead or more for Valentine's Day reservations especially if you want a window seat with view.
With that said, this place is phenomenal and I'm not saying it lightly. I've been to other upscale dining where the presentation is impeccable but the food was not to par. The food here is so amazing I want to say its mind blowing amazing. Vivian Y., you're so right, anything you order here is an excellent choice.
Now to the food. We had the raw oysters for the appetizer. Yum yum yum.
My boyfriend ordered the filet mignon with foie gras. I've never liked liver in my life but this liver was so rich, buttery, and delicate it literally melted in your mouth just like the filet mignon. The filet was so tender I didn't even think I was eating meat. Wow just incredible!
I was really sad I was missing the Lobsterlicious special (Monday - Thursday for a limited time) so I recreated my own Lobersterlicious meal by ordering the Lobster Bisque, Pan Roasted Sea Scallops and Butter Poached Lobster, and Coconut Cream Pie. All great choices again. The scallops was huge and the lobster was scrumptious! The Coconut Cream Pie just topped everything off in a good way.
One thing I want to mention is though the portion sizes aren't that big as it is with most fine dining restaurants. I realized though when you eat really good food you don't need quantity because your taste buds are instantly satisfied. The bill with wine indeed was high but we left feeling good and that is really all that matters :) -
Review from Kevin D.
Toronto, ON
10/19/2008
Bar none- the best service, food and wine in the city that I've been to. There are two restaurants with totally different styles. The Pasta Bar is upscale bistro and The Dining Room is French Fine Dining.
The wine list is extensive with regional breakdowns and Sommeliers' Selections.
You will love the Filet Mignon- done traditionally by Executive Chef Keith Frogget as well as the Coconut Cream Pie, Liver and calamari... to name just a select few from each menu.
Beautiful city views as well! You wouldn't believe it, but Scaramouche offers a stunning view of the city atop the crest of Avenue Road, south of St. Clair.
An experience not to be missed. Dinner for two can range from $200- $500 depending on the wine. Service is unparalleled.
Go there!Listed in: KD's Top Restaurants
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Review from Erin H.
Toronto, ON
The street that I live on is sandwiched between two main drags in the city - one is mostly condominiums and apartments and the other is full of shops and restaurants.
Scaramouche - snuck its way into one of the high-rises on the non-retail side of the sandwich in the early nineties - according to its décor - and has not moved, or changed since. This upscale, frozen in time restaurant, whose patrons seem to have aged (perhaps having undergone a few more facelifts than Scaramouche itself) with the establishment, has quality on its side. The food is expensive but wonderful and the crowd is classic (and by that I mean old) Toronto snobbery at its best. If you are young, yearning to spend money on excellent food and seeking to stick your nose up at those who are classically trained in proboscis promotion, then Scaramouche gives you that rare but lovely chance. -
Review from Vivian Y.
10/16/2008
I tried foie gras for the first time here and man, it was GOOOOD.... Perfectly seared with a slightly cold center. The food is excellent and romantic. Service is incredible.
Ate here with my aunt and uncle who's wallets are pretty deep - you can get one of the best meals in Toronto here. Great wine list.
Free valet (at least when I went) which is convenient because parking isn't great in this area.Listed in: Eat Your Way Through Toronto
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Review from John G.
East York, ON
9/18/2011
Varied, imaginative menu. Adequate wine list. Food on part with what you'd expect from a top restaurant. Didn't distinguish itself. Ambiance was stuffy. Views of skyline were nice, but only really enjoyable from select window-side tables. Service was top notch, world class. Portions were appropriate. Meal was overpriced. Wine list was fairly priced. Worth a go. Not my favorite.
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Review from Ed C.
4/10/2010
Known to be one of the best restaurants in Toronto, this was a very good spot for a business dinner. I could also see it as a good romantic dinner place too.
Food was very good, but I feel I am spoiled in San Francisco with fine dining, especially if this is one of the best Toronto has to offer.
Location was the most interesting part. From the outside, the building looks like a college dormitory. Once inside the door, a nicely contemporary restaurant reveals itself with a view of the city. -
Review from Tina H.
10/25/2010
Amazing gin & tonic made with specialty, hard to get tonic water. Great service. Delicious food. I'll be back for sure!!.. even if only for the gin & tonic.
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Review from Ms. J.
Toronto, ON
10/27/2009
After the valet parking, the coat check, there is the stairs to the waiting space. It was my second time in six years and it still impresses with an awesome view, a great menu, delicious main courses and the BEST creme brulee. Won't break your wallet either.
My dish is pulled rabbit. Gnocchi, rapini, and rabbit... Your taste buds never had it so good.
My girl's Ollie's dish; calf liver, mash potatoes, and onion rings. Not your average fare. Delicious.
I highly recommend this spot as a romantic restaurant (dining room), or a BD celebration place. Great wait staff as well.
Finagle a window seat with at lest two hours of dining time. Scaramouch has its prized regulars. -
Review from Joyce T.
Mississauga, ON
6/8/2011
I went there with my friends for Lobsterlicious special. Great food and great service. The Coconut Cream Pie is the best you can find in the city!!!
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Review from Su B.
1/23/2011
3.5 stars. It is exactly between an A OK and Im a fan. Went there on a cold winter night recently. It was a surprise dinner from hubby for a good review at work. We had the nicest table at the restaurant and the view was beautiful. They had a lobster special called lobsterlicious on that night and being crazy fans of the decadent critter we gladly succumbed.
I ordered a nice bubbly cocktail and it was a sublime feeling. The atmosphere is very retro and subtle.
Food was impeccable - my SO had the scallops as an appetizer and they were probably the best we have tasted in a while. We had a lot of lobster and it was all great and the portions were perfect (not microscopic) and we really enjoyed the meal . It was a beautiful, quiet evening with great food and a wonderful view.
The only thing that kept me from bestowing 5 stars was the attention to detail or the lack of it. I don't like cold bread and definitely expect the butter to be at room temperature so I don't have to hack at it. I expect the server to keep an eye on my drink for a second or third or (hic) fourth round....
For a place that is known for its subtle indulgences, maybe they need to focus on details. Thats what makes it a "wohoooo" experience and this fell a little short. -
Review from IntoTheMystic I.
Toronto, ON
9/9/2010
If you haven't been to Scaramouche then run, don't walk to the nearest phone and make your reservation. The food is fantastic and, though the prices are steep for most of us, do what I do with friends and treat yourself to a wonderful meal once or twice (or ?? as often as you can afford) a year. The decor is an elegant, albeit retro, look which I personally appreciate but, make no mistake, the food is anything but retro! The view of the Toronto skyline at night from inside is simply an added bonus. Again, don't walk, run to the closest phone and make a reservation! Bon appetite!
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Review from Jake A.
3/2/2011
I'm a hugh fan of the Pasta Bar..sit at the bar watching the boys and girls cooking away...fun fun..the views behind you are great as are the ones in from....eat drink and be merry...OH and for god sakes eat the coconut cream pie.YUM YUM YUM
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Review from Mimi M.
North York, ON
8/5/2011
Fabulous food, presentation & service, lovely view, superb winelist....what more can I say? My boyfriend took me there on my birthday. The lobster appetizer had sold out but that was no problem because everythig on the menu was appealing. I decided on 2 appetizers instead of a main. We enjoyed a wonderful 2005 burgundy which is not easy to come by! The dessert menu is fun to read...and I am sure all their desserts are devine.....but i don't eat dessert!
Listed in: Places I like
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Review from Hardip S.
1/6/2010
I took my wife here for our 2 year anniversary. She's was stuck in Toronto on training since November, so I had to find a suitable place in unfamiliar territory. I couldn't ask her for a recommendation since it was going to be a surprise. I talked to a few of her friends and did some research online, and this was one of the recommended places to go for a romantic dinner date.
Reservations were highly recommended, but when I went online to make a reservation, no slots for 7pm were available. I waited until the next morning and called the restaurant directly. I informed them that I was celebrating my anniversary in Toronto, and Scaramouche HAD to be the restaurant we celebrated at. The charm seem to work since they said they would accommodate us and ensured that we'd have an unforgettable evening.
We were staying downtown, so we just cabbed it to the restaurant. It does look like valet is the way to go. I didn't even notice any parking directly outside the restaurant.
After coat check, they escorted us to our seats. There is a dining room and a pasta bar/grill. These are two different dining experience, so make sure you choose correctly. Both areas have different menus. Dress code in the dining room is more dressy and the pasta bar is more business cashual/trendy. We went w/ the dining room since we were celebrating an occasion.
They sat us right next to the window, so we got a great view of the Toronto Skyline. If you reserve in advance, be sure to ask for a window seat. Since I was drinking alone, I just went w/ some mixed cocktails, but it looks like wine is the way to go. The wine menu was about 4+ pages long. Our drinks came out within minutes w/ bread and butter.
The first course menu looked appealing. We were initially going to go w/ the mixed lettuce salad, but that was before the server mentioned the specials. The wife ended up getting the warm chick pea soup, and I ended up getting lobster cakes off of the specials menu. The soup came garnished w/ tomatoes, capers, and quail eggs. The wife isn't too adventurous, so she requested that they hold the quail eggs.
As we were waiting, the server came back to check if I ate quail eggs (which I did). A few minutes later, he came back w/ a mixed green salad w/ quail eggs and real bacon bits. This was a very considerate gesture since by purchasing the soup, a good % of the $ you are spending for the soup is going to the quail eggs. The petite salad itself was great. Not sure if you can order this straight up. Might want to check w/ the server if you are interested.
I didn't try the soup, but the wife said she was pleased w/ it. The lobster cakes were outstanding. It was served w/ a house guacamole and remoulade sauce. Perfectly crisp on the outside and nice and lumpy on the inside. I could've eaten the cakes as an entree.
My wife's dinner selection was easy since she doesn't each much red meat or seafood. She ended up going w/ the breast of free range chicken. It was either that or a veggie pasta dish for her. I was torn between the roasted lamb and the filet mingon, but ended up going w/ the filet. No regrets whatsoever about my selection. The steak was cooked to order and came in a Bordelaise sauce. It was served on top of a bed of whipped potatoes and was accompanied w/ green beans and grilled onion. Definitely one of the better tasting filets I've ever eaten. The wife's chicken was also superb. She gave me a sample and I feel I could've ordered that as my dish. It came w/ a nice creamy gorgonzola sauce that you'll want to swim in.
Even though we were both stuffed @ this point, the server convinced us to get a dessert since it was a special night. We went w/ his recommendation which was the Baked Chocolate Mousse. The wife is more of a dessert buff than I am, but we both really enjoyed the dessert. It is served warm with crisp coffee semifreddo, caramel sauce and a chocolate tuile. What made this extra special is they wrote "happy anniversary" with the sauce on the serving plate w/ out me even asking. This might be cheesy to some, but the wife loved it so it scored points for me :-).
We wrapped up dessert and then took care of the check. This is not a cheap dining experience, so bring plenty of cash or plastic. Remember to account for valet and gratuity for coat check.
The restaurant entrance itself is not off a main street. This combined w/ the fact that was snowing on the night we went was going to make it difficult to call a cab. I asked one of the gentlemen whats the best way to catch a cab, and he told us to just wait by the front door and he'll call one for us. I just wanted to point out this nice gesture from the staff.
Summary: Overall a great dining experience. Key notes:
~ a great restaurant for a romantic dinner in Toronto.
~ great personable service
~ great food -
Review from Hratch P.
Toronto, ON
7/10/2009
I get the whole traditional/classic thing, but I'm going to have to side more with Erin on this one than the rest of the reviews. The food and service was good, but I wasn't blown away. If I was, maybe I wouldn't even have noticed the white tablecloth, outdated look.
I'd heard a lot about this place and wanted to try it for a while so I was expecting a lot. We went there for a business dinner this week and I can't say it lived up to the hype.
On the good side, the servers and wine were superb.
The food was in the middle; good, but not as good as expected. I had the steak tartar, lamb, and coconut cream pie (the latter two signature dishes recommended by the server). I should mention one of my colleagues ordered off the lobsterfest menu and was thrilled.
And then there's the classic ambience, or should I say the excuse not to renovate. No reason a restaurant of this stature shouldn't update itself a little. A shame really, cause with that amazing back window and view they could really do something spectacular here with a small investment.
So all in all, would I go there again? Sure, probably one of the first places I'll think of when my parents are in town and I take them to dinner. But other than that, not likely. At least not for another 20 years, or maybe if a significant other insisted. -
Review from Nick P.
Toronto, ON
4/1/2010
Easily one of the best restos in the City. Flawless execution of dishes and exemplary service. Every dinner there is special. They deliver consistently every single time. I have eaten there 6-10 times, and I always leave wanting to come back.
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Review from B R.
Toronto, ON
5/5/2011
This is an upscale restaurant with an amazing view of the city and the staff fawn over you. However, the 2-star docking is on the grounds that the restaurant is stupidly expensive. When I went in August 2010, I found the food decent but not amazing. I could fit the main course into the palm of my hand. 6 of us ate there for over $800 and I still left hungry!
