Gusto 101

Toronto, Canada

Discover Gusto 101: Toronto's Italian Culinary Gem on Portland Street.

Nestled in the heart of Old Toronto, Gusto 101 captivates food lovers with its vibrant blend of southern Italian classics and contemporary global twists. Located at 101 Portland Street, this dynamic restaurant invites you to savor authentic Italian flavors in an industrial-chic setting that effortlessly combines rustic charm with urban cool.

A feast for the senses: the menu and atmosphere

Gusto 101's menu shines with standout dishes such as the creamy Mafalde Ai Funghi, bursting with truffle-infused goodness, and the Diavola Pizza, famed for its perfect balance of smokiness and spice. Pasta lovers delight in the expertly crafted noodles that boast exceptional texture and flavor. The restaurant also caters to diverse dietary needs, offering gluten-free pasta options to ensure everyone can indulge.
Drinks at Gusto 101 are expertly curated, with wine on tap and refreshing cocktails like the pear-flavored Pocca that have guests raving. Whether you're stopping by for happy hour or a leisurely dinner, the beverage program perfectly complements the bold flavors of the cuisine.

Experience the ambiance: rooftop patio and more

One of Gusto 101’s biggest charms is its inviting rooftop patio, perfect for date nights or gatherings with friends. The lively atmosphere buzzes with energy while the industrial-style interior with multilayered seating offers cozy corners for intimate dining. Outdoor seating options add to the appeal, allowing guests to soak up Toronto’s city vibes in comfort.

Community sentiment and dining tips

Gusto 101 enjoys a positive reputation among Toronto locals and visitors alike. Diners praise its authentic Italian fare, especially the pasta dishes and pizza, alongside attentive service and vibrant ambiance. While the food quality and portions can spark debate, the rooftop patio and happy hour specials are definite crowd pleasers. Whether you’re a foodie craving bold flavors or a group looking for a fun night out, this spot offers an exciting dining experience.
  • Does Gusto 101 accept reservations? Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.
  • Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, Gusto 101 offers both outdoor seating and a rooftop patio for guests to enjoy.
  • Are there gluten-free options on the menu? Yes, Gusto 101 provides gluten-free pasta and other options for guests with dietary restrictions.
  • What are the happy hour specials? Happy hour specials include select items at half off, available from 5 PM to 7 PM daily.
  • Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible? Yes, Gusto 101 is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests.

Gusto 101: A vibrant journey through modern Southern Italian cuisine in Toronto's heart downtown.

Nestled at 101 Portland Street in the bustling city of Toronto, Gusto 101 has carved a distinct niche since its inception in 2012. This acclaimed Italian restaurant breathes new life into Southern Italian classics, skillfully blending authenticity with innovative culinary twists. Situated in a creatively repurposed garage space, it offers more than just food—it’s an experience that radiates the vibrant spirit of the city.

The evolution of Gusto 101: A timeline of milestones

Since opening its doors in 2012, Gusto 101 quickly distinguished itself by introducing modern Southern Italian cuisine to Toronto’s dynamic food scene. What began as a neighborhood gem has blossomed into a celebrated dining destination, known for its expertly crafted dishes and inviting atmosphere.
  • 2012 Gusto 101 opens its doors, introducing modern Southern Italian cuisine to Toronto.
  • 2015 The restaurant's rooftop patio becomes a popular dining spot, offering scenic views of the city.
  • 2018 Gusto 101 receives the 'Travellers’ Choice' award from TripAdvisor, ranking among the top 10% of restaurants.
  • 2020 The restaurant introduces happy hour specials, featuring select items at half off from 5 PM to 7 PM daily.
  • 2023 Gusto 101 celebrates its 11th anniversary, continuing to serve authentic Italian dishes to a loyal customer base.

A unique dining experience with local flair

Gusto 101 stands out not only for its culinary excellence but also for its creative use of space and atmosphere. Its industrial-chic setting, combined with a welcoming rooftop patio, creates an ideal backdrop for both casual lunches and memorable dinner outings. The establishment’s commitment to quality and innovation has attracted a diverse crowd, from food enthusiasts to trend-conscious Toronto locals.
Embracing the essence of Southern Italy, Gusto 101 continues to evolve while honoring its roots, making it a must-visit destination for authentic Italian cuisine lovers in Toronto and beyond.

Discover Gusto 101 in Toronto's Vibrant Dining Scene

Nestled in the heart of Old Toronto at 101 Portland Street, Gusto 101 offers an enticing blend of authentic Italian cuisine infused with contemporary global twists. This industrial-chic restaurant has become a popular destination for food lovers seeking vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere. Its rooftop patio adds a refreshing open-air dining option, perfect for date nights or gatherings with friends.

Savor the Culinary Highlights

Gusto 101 shines with its expertly crafted Italian classics like the creamy truffle-infused Mafalde Ai Alfande a Funghi and the crowd-pleasing margherita pizza. The pasta dishes boast robust flavors and delightful textures, with options that cater to vegetarians and those seeking gluten-free choices. Guests have praised the balanced seasoning and the quality of ingredients, especially appreciating the house wines and refreshing cocktails served on tap.

Experience and Atmosphere

The restaurant’s multilayered architecture offers seating both on the bustling main floor and a more lively rooftop patio. The vibrant ambiance is complemented by attentive and friendly service, making guests feel welcomed. Happy hour specials featuring select items at half price provide excellent value, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While Gusto 101 has much to offer, some guests note that the venue can become quite noisy during peak hours, which might affect those seeking a quieter dining atmosphere. Parking options are limited, with paid lots and street parking available but potentially challenging at busy times. Additionally, certain patrons have found the seating arrangements to be somewhat cramped, especially when the restaurant fills up.
  • Pros - Authentic Italian cuisine with modern twists, vibrant rooftop patio, attentive service, happy hour specials, and gluten-free options.
  • Cons - Can be noisy at busy times, limited parking, and some guests find seating cramped.

4.1

Open Now - Closing 10:00 PM

Monday

11:45–22:00

Tuesday

11:45–22:00

Wednesday

11:45–22:00

Thursday

11:45–22:00

Friday

11:45–23:00

Saturday

11:00–23:00

Sunday

11:00–22:00

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