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Dandylion was a Toronto-based restaurant known for its inventive, globally influenced dishes and romantic ambiance. Patrons appreciated the seasonal menu and attentive service. However, some noted that portion sizes were small and prices were high.

Discovering Dandylion: A Culinary Gem on Queen Street West

Nestled at 1198 Queen Street West in Toronto, Dandylion was a beloved restaurant known for its inventive and carefully crafted Canadian-inspired cuisine with global influences. This intimate dining spot earned a special place in the hearts of foodies and locals alike, thanks to its commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and a daily-curated menu that kept every visit fresh and exciting.

Step inside Dandylion and experience the charm of a minimally decorated room, featuring raw exposed brick walls and soft ambient lighting that created a romantic and cozy vibe. The open kitchen design invited guests to watch Chef Jay Carter and his team work their magic, adding a personal and engaging touch to the dining experience.

A Taste Journey Through Thoughtful Dishes

Dandylion's menu was a celebration of bold flavors and careful preparation.

 Standout dishes like the cured duck leg with five-spice, perfectly cooked beef tenderloin, and the creative rolled rutabaga with thyme and caramelized onions delighted palates. Diners often praised the exquisite desserts such as the rhubarb crumble and custard that provided a sweet finish worthy of returning for.

The thoughtfully curated wine list featured local selections and a lovely rosé, complementing the flavors of the dishes beautifully. Service at Dandylion was frequently described as impeccable and knowledgeable, with staff eager to enhance the overall dining experience.

Patrons of Dandylion cherished the restaurant's focus on quality ingredients, chef engagement, and the intimate atmosphere which made every meal feel special. At the same time, some guests noted that portion sizes were on the modest side and pricing was on the higher end, reflecting the premium dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dandylion

 No, Dandylion permanently closed in August 2021.

 Chef Jay Carter was the head chef and owner of Dandylion.

What type of cuisine did Dandylion serve?

 Canadian-inspired dishes with global influences, focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

 It was located at 1198 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M6J 1J6, Canada.

 An intimate setting with exposed brick walls, minimalist decor, and soft lighting, perfect for a romantic evening.

North America

Canada

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Old Toronto, Dandylion offers an intimate dining experience that combines inventive global influences with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Located at 1198 Queen Street West, this restaurant is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable culinary journey in Toronto.

Dandylion: A culinary gem on Queen Street West

Dandylion is celebrated for its small, thoughtfully curated menu that emphasizes quality and flavor. The open kitchen design allows diners to witness the culinary artistry firsthand, creating a lively yet cozy ambiance perfect for both intimate dinners and special occasions.

Dandylion's menu showcases a blend of global influences, crafted with precision and passion. Standout dishes include a delicately seasoned rice and morels, renowned for its rich, earthy flavors, and a beautifully prepared cod that boasts a perfect balance of citrusy zest and tender texture. The dessert selection features a luscious custard with fresh rhubarb, offering a delightful end to your meal.

The chef at Dandylion is known for his engaging personality and dedication to culinary excellence. A fun fact is that the menu is curated anew every day, ensuring fresh, innovative dishes that reflect seasonal ingredients and global culinary trends. This commitment to creativity and quality makes each visit a unique experience.

 Dandylion is renowned for its inventive dishes, seasonal menus, and a cozy yet lively atmosphere that makes every meal special.

 To experience innovative cuisine crafted with seasonal ingredients, in a setting that balances modern design with a welcoming vibe.

Dandylion's prime location on Queen Street West places it within walking distance of Toronto's eclectic neighborhoods, art galleries, and boutique shops. Perfect for a full day of exploration after indulging in their exquisite dishes.

Inventive dishes with global influences served in a minimally decorated room with bare brick walls.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURZMThlMzF3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA8Ayvqo1K4gRO6IFCwPAeAI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURZMThlMzF3RRAB

Absolutely delicious food in a cute setting. Just enough energy to be exciting without being loud. The kitchen is in the back and wide open. Chef is engaging and friendly. Taught me how to make asparagus the way him and his team does. Cannot recommend the rice/morels dish enough. Dessert was a fantastic custard with rhubarb. The menu is small but everything is cooked to perfection! Thanks Chef! See you at Burma!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNvNmFmZjFnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA8Ayvqo1K4gRO6IFCwPAeAI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNvNmFmZjFnRRAB

Amazing experience for a special occasion.  We even got to meet the chef which you don't usually get to do.  The menu is curated new every day.  The food was amazing... Each course had it's own flavors and personality.  This place is all about the food... Although the atmosphere was quite nice and surprisingly warm given that the single door shouldn't have kept away all the cold air it somehow did thanks to the barrier.  The staff was super knowledgeable and helpful.  It ended up being a rather expensive dinner, as we added wines to the meal, but we left talking about how it was totally worth it!   Highly recommended.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBeW95UTNnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA8Ayvqo1K4gRO6IFCwPAeAI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBeW95UTNnRRAB

Had the most perfect birthday dinner here in July. From the minute I walked in, service was like clockwork and impeccable. As a former server I tend to be pretty picky, but was really impressed. Small, nice selection of wines and rosé. Bright, fresh ingredients and each dish was so unique. The chef walked out to greet us and brought out my birthday dessert. Could not have asked for a more perfect experience. Will definitely be back!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNVeE1PSU1nEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA8Ayvqo1K4gRO6IFCwPAeAI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNVeE1PSU1nEAE

Dandylion was okay for me after reading about all the hype, and some comparisons to places like Alo and Ten. It’s a cute little space, but a bit too dark for me even sitting near the door. Our server was really nice though and I liked her rose recommendation.

The okay for me was with the food. Portion size was a bit small for sharing - even with two ‘mains’. The fish was a bit too citrusy tart. The squid on the other hand felt a bit under seasoned. Going in, I didn’t really love their presentation of piling a bunch of micro greens on top of each dish. It wasn’t so obvious with our dishes, so that was good, and a nice surprise.

The bread was served warm, and was a good sourdough. Our rhubarb crumble dessert was also really good, and was my favourite part. But, for the price, it didn’t really feel all justified, and I left feeling a bit hungry still.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURzd0pQejV3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA8Ayvqo1K4gRO6IFCwPAeAI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURzd0pQejV3RRAB

Food was unassuming to look at, but incredible depth of flavour!

Came here Feb 13th on a super cold evening to celebrate Valentine's Day without the droves of people. Glad we came.

We shared a cured duck leg as appetizer which was juicy and perfectly spiced in what I believe to be 5-spice. My wife said she wanted none of it, and ate half of it after the first bite.

Moving on to the mains, I had a cod, she the beef tenderloin. Both were near perfectly cooked (with the exception of my cod was about 30sec too long in the pan, the brown butter was getting into the flakes of fish and began seperating them, where I find that's the point you start loosing that initial juiciness of pulling it apart yourself with your fork, it had already gotten there). The fava beans and potatoes were simple and well seasoned/cooked. The beef was again perfectly cooked (no colours taken on meat), the real show stopper for me was the rolled rutabaga with thyme and caramelized onion. Yum, at first it looked like omerice/omellete, we weren't sure.

For dessert, a not quite salty, sweet, bitter and savoury cake was the right amount of everything to end it without feeling you overindulged.

In all honesty, with a glass of wine each, a shared app and dessert and a main each, we spent 3$ more than we did a few nights earlier on Winterlicious at a not-to-par restaurant. The food here was exceptional.

$160 later and I'm very happy with quality and quantity for price.

Dandylion: Unique Fine Dining in Toronto's Queen St W

Dandylion was a Toronto-based restaurant known for its inventive, globally influenced dishes and romantic ambiance. It permanently closed in August 2021 after six and a half years of operation.

Dandylion: A Toronto Culinary Gem's Journey Through Time

Nestled at 1198 Queen Street West in the vibrant heart of Toronto, Dandylion carved a distinct niche in the city's culinary scene from its grand opening in 2014 until its closing in 2021. Known for its inventive dishes that seamlessly blended global influences, this restaurant offered diners a memorable and intimate experience characterized by a minimalist room featuring bare brick walls.

Dandylion opened its doors in 2014 on the bustling Queen Street West, quickly earning acclaim for its small but meticulously curated menu. Diners could expect dishes that were cooked to perfection with an exciting yet understated energy. The open kitchen layout fostered an engaging connection between chefs and guests, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere where culinary craftsmanship was front and center.

Throughout its years of operation, Dandylion was praised for its inventive approach to food that married depth of flavor with fresh, bright ingredients. Signature dishes like the rice with morels and custard desserts with rhubarb delighted guests seeking unique taste profiles. The intimate setting, with its bare brick walls and cozy lighting, provided a perfect backdrop for special occasions and quiet dinners alike. The knowledgeable and friendly staff, often including the chef himself, elevated the dining experience with personalized service and insightful wine pairings.

 of serving memorable meals in Toronto, Dandylion permanently closed in August 2021. Its departure marked the end of an era for food lovers who appreciated its subtle, yet impactful culinary artistry and the intimate ambiance it cultivated on Queen Street West.

 - Dandylion began welcoming guests with a unique dining concept on Queen Street West.

 - Served small, carefully crafted dishes featuring fresh, bright ingredients and global influences.

 - Open kitchen and personable chef interactions made for a warm, inviting setting.

 - After six and a half years, Dandylion closed permanently in August, leaving a lasting impression on Toronto's food culture.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Reservable

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Dandylion is a unique restaurant on Queen St W, Toronto, offering exquisite food in a charming atmosphere. A must-visit dining spot!

Dandylion

Dandylion Menu Overview at 1198 Queen St W Toronto ON Canada 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Toronto's Old Town, Dandylion offers an unforgettable dining experience defined by inventive dishes crafted with fresh, bright ingredients. The menu is small yet thoughtfully curated, showcasing a blend of global influences that come together in stunning compositions. Chef-driven and ever-evolving, it invites guests to embark on a culinary journey in a charming, minimally decorated space with exposed brick walls, providing an intimate ambiance perfect for special occasions or refined casual dinners.

Begin your meal with a juicy, perfectly spiced cured duck leg, infused with aromatic five-spice that delivers an exciting burst of flavor. The kitchen’s mastery also extends to fresh asparagus prepared in a unique style taught personally by the chef, showcasing their commitment to seasonal and refined simplicity. Warm sourdough bread accompanies the starters, serving as a comforting introduction to the meal.

The mains at Dandylion are a celebration of balance and depth. Savor the delicate cod, pan-seared with a brown butter glaze that enhances the flaky texture without overwhelming it. Alternatively, indulge in the perfectly cooked beef tenderloin accompanied by tender fava beans and expertly seasoned potatoes. A standout side is the rolled rutabaga with thyme and caramelized onion, a dish whose unexpected elegance surprises with every bite. The kitchen’s rice and morel mushroom dish is a must-try for those seeking rich, earthy flavors.

Sweet finales at Dandylion are as thoughtfully crafted as the main courses. Enjoy a rhubarb custard that perfectly balances tartness and creaminess, offering a refreshing conclusion to your meal. The rhubarb crumble dessert is another favorite, boasting a delightful blend of textures and flavors. For those seeking complexity, a cake that artfully combines salty, sweet, bitter, and savory notes rounds out the menu with finesse.

Complement your meal with Dandylion’s carefully curated selection of beverages. Choose from a refined assortment of wines and rosés, expertly recommended by knowledgeable staff to perfectly match the flavors on your plate. The restaurant also serves a variety of beers, making it easy to find the ideal drink to enhance your dining experience in this cozy Toronto spot.

Indulge in a culinary adventure at Dandylion, Toronto's hidden gem on Queen St W. Experience seasonal dishes and vibrant flavors—reserve your table now!

Dandylion: Toronto's Gem on Queen St W for Foodies

Toronto Municipality

Dandylion: a culinary gem on queen street west in toronto, canada.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Old Toronto, Dandylion stands out as a beacon of innovative dining on Queen Street West. This restaurant offers a truly unique experience, blending global culinary influences with a minimalist aesthetic highlighted by exposed brick walls that create a cozy yet refined atmosphere. Whether you’re a foodie, a local looking for an exceptional meal, or a traveler seeking the best of Toronto’s dining scene, Dandylion promises an unforgettable journey of flavors.

a menu that celebrates freshness and creativity

At Dandylion, every dish is a masterpiece crafted with fresh, bright ingredients and an eye for detail. The menu is intentionally small but meticulously curated, changing daily to showcase the best seasonal produce and innovative techniques. From the perfectly cooked beef tenderloin to dishes featuring fava beans, caramelized onions, and unique preparations like rolled rutabaga, the flavors are balanced and sophisticated. Don’t miss their acclaimed rice and morels combination or the rhubarb custard dessert that offers a fantastic finish to your meal.

This charming spot offers a warm and inviting vibe where the energy is lively without being overwhelming. The open kitchen at the back adds to the intimate experience, allowing guests to watch the friendly and engaging chef in action. Service is often described as impeccable and knowledgeable, with staff who help guide you through wine pairings and menu choices, ensuring your evening is smooth and memorable. The cozy setting also features a clever door barrier that keeps the chilly Toronto air at bay, creating a comfortable dining environment year-round.

 in a minimally decorated room with bare brick walls and a relaxed atmosphere.

 crafted with global influences and seasonal ingredients.

 with friendly staff and an engaging chef who sometimes shares cooking tips.

 including a curated selection of wines and rosé to perfectly complement your meal.

Located at 1198 Queen St W in Toronto, Dandylion is perfect for special occasions or an elevated night out. The restaurant accepts debit cards and welcomes reservations to ensure you have a smooth experience. While it is not a spot for children, it caters wonderfully to adults who appreciate inventive cuisine, a well-curated wine list, and a charming ambiance. Though takeout is available, the real magic happens in the dine-in setting where every detail is thoughtfully executed.

Dandylion Toronto Restaurant Overview and Guest Impressions 

Nestled on vibrant Queen Street West in Toronto, Dandylion invites food lovers to experience a refined yet unpretentious dining affair. The restaurant is known for its inventive dishes inspired by global flavors, expertly prepared using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Guests consistently praise the intimate atmosphere framed by bare brick walls and an open kitchen concept, which allows diners to connect with the culinary artistry firsthand.

Dandylion’s charm lies in its unique combination of exceptional service and culinary excellence. Guests frequently highlight the friendliness and knowledge of the staff, creating a welcoming environment perfect for special occasions or intimate dinners. The open kitchen adds an engaging element, with the chef often interacting with diners and sharing insights into the dishes.

Exceptional service with knowledgeable staff

Intimate and romantic ambiance with minimalistic decor and exposed brick

Seasonal and locally sourced ingredients elevate freshness and flavor

Open kitchen concept enhances transparency and engagement

While Dandylion excels in quality and service, prospective diners should be aware of a few factors that may influence their experience. The portion sizes tend to be on the smaller side, which some guests find less satisfying especially when sharing dishes. Additionally, the pricing reflects the high culinary standards and exclusivity, which might be considered steep by budget-conscious patrons.

Portion sizes may be small for some appetites

Pricing could be considered high compared to casual dining options

For food enthusiasts seeking a refined dining experience in Toronto, Dandylion offers a captivating blend of artistry, flavor, and hospitality. Its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients and creative culinary techniques makes it a standout destination on Queen Street West. However, those prioritizing larger portions or budget-friendly meals might want to consider their expectations beforehand. Overall, Dandylion remains a favorite for special occasions and gastronomic exploration.

Ontario

Discover Dandylion on Queen St W, Toronto—known for inventive global dishes, romantic ambiance, seasonal menus, and attentive service. Book now!

Toronto's Dandylion: Unique Dining Experience in Old Toronto

Experience Dandylion’s globally influenced dishes with seasonal ingredients in Old Toronto. Perfect for romantic dinners and special occasions. Reserve today!

Explore Old Toronto with Dandylion's Culinary Delights

Enjoy inventive, globally inspired dishes at Dandylion, a beloved Toronto restaurant. Known for romantic setting and seasonal menus. Book your table!

Dandylion: Unique Fine Dining in Toronto's Queen St W

Overview

Dining & Culinary Delights

Behind the Scenes

FAQs

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