SELECTED RESTAURANT

La Banane

Toronto, Canada

La Banane: A Chic French Culinary Gem on Ossington Avenue

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Toronto's Ossington Avenue, La Banane is a stylish, brass-accented eatery that brings a fresh twist to French cuisine. This intimate restaurant has rapidly become a favorite for food lovers craving inventive dishes inspired by classic French flavors, complemented by a curated raw bar and an impressive selection of cocktails and wines.

Atmosphere and Dining Experience

From the moment you step inside La Banane, you’re enveloped by a chic ambiance where brass accents add a warm glow to the contemporary décor. The seating is comfortable and inviting, perfect for groups or intimate dinners. Guests often mention the lively vibe paired with attentive service that makes every visit feel special. While the music and buzz can get energetic, it adds to the spirited French bistro atmosphere that sets this spot apart.

Menu Highlights and Culinary Delights

La Banane’s menu is a celebration of French gastronomy with a modern and creative edge. Diners rave about the melt-in-your-mouth venison tenderloin, exquisitely fresh Atlantic mussels, and the perfectly balanced sea bass dishes. The house-made brioche buns paired with delicious butter are a star on their own, evoking the essence of Parisian charm. For dessert, the signature banana cake and chocolate mousse tart delight with their rich, sophisticated flavors. Cocktails such as the Dragonita offer a playful twist, making the beverage experience just as memorable as the food.

What Guests Are Saying

Positive community sentiment : La Banane receives glowing reviews for its consistently excellent food quality and highly attentive, knowledgeable service. Visitors appreciate the restaurant’s lively and vibrant atmosphere that perfectly complements the elevated French-inspired dining experience. While some note that the music level can be a bit high and portion sizes lean toward the smaller side for the price, the majority agree that every bite is a delight that justifies a return visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does La Banane accept reservations? Yes, reservations are accepted and recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.
  • Is there a dress code at La Banane? While there is no formal dress code, smart casual attire is recommended.
  • Are there vegetarian options available? Yes, La Banane offers vegetarian options on their menu.
  • Is parking available at La Banane? Street parking is available near the restaurant.
  • Does La Banane offer takeout or delivery? No, La Banane does not offer takeout or delivery services.

La Banane: A French Culinary Jewel in Toronto's Old Town District.

Nestled in the heart of Toronto's vibrant Old Town at 227 Ossington Avenue, La Banane has swiftly established itself as a premier destination for lovers of French-inspired cuisine. Since opening its doors in 2017, this stylish eatery has captivated diners with its inventive menu and brass-accented ambience, offering a unique blend of traditional and contemporary French flavors.

A timeline of excellence

La Banane's journey began in 2017, marking a new chapter in Toronto's dynamic culinary scene. Quickly gaining attention for its vibrant atmosphere and remarkable attention to detail, it did not take long for the restaurant to make its mark.
In 2018, just a year after opening, La Banane's exceptional quality earned it a coveted spot in the MICHELIN Guide, an honor that positioned it among the city's most notable gastronomic destinations. This recognition was a testament to the restaurant's commitment to excellence and innovation in French cuisine.
By 2020, La Banane had solidified its reputation and was honored with the accolade of being one of the Best French Restaurants in Toronto. This milestone recognized the restaurant's sustained dedication to delivering exquisite dishes and memorable dining experiences that continue to delight locals and visitors alike.

What makes La Banane unique

La Banane's distinct allure lies in its lively atmosphere paired with a menu that pays homage to French culinary traditions while embracing modern creativity. The restaurant's brass-accented decor exudes elegance and warmth, making it an inviting spot for both intimate dinners and group celebrations.
  • Innovative French-inspired dishes crafted from high-quality ingredients that appeal to discerning foodies.
  • Exceptional service delivered by knowledgeable and attentive staff, making every visit memorable.
  • A refined ambiance combining chic brass accents and comfortable seating, ideal for a sophisticated night out.
Whether you're a local looking to indulge in exquisite French cuisine or a traveler eager to explore Toronto's culinary gems, La Banane offers an experience that is both authentically French and refreshingly innovative. Its rich history of acclaim underscores its status as a must-visit spot on Ossington Avenue.

La Banane: A Modern French Dining Experience in Toronto's Ossington Avenue District

Nestled on Ossington Avenue, La Banane offers a stylish and brass-accented setting where French culinary traditions meet inventive twists. This vibrant restaurant is celebrated for its exceptional food quality, attentive service, and a menu that prominently features fresh seafood, premium meats, and decadent desserts. Food lovers and trend-conscious travelers alike will appreciate the thoughtful execution of classic French dishes elevated by modern creativity.

Highlights of the dining experience

La Banane excels in delivering a memorable meal with standout dishes such as the Atlantic mussels, venison tenderloin, and crab from the raw bar. Guests rave about the house-made brioche buns paired with rich butters, as well as the carefully curated cocktail list that complements the meal perfectly. The restaurant's tasting menu is highly recommended for those who want to explore the chef’s finest creations and enjoy expertly paired dessert options like the banana cake or chocolate mousse tart.
Service is another hallmark of La Banane, with servers praised for their charm, food knowledge, and genuine customer focus. The ambiance is lively and stylish, making it an excellent venue for celebrations or intimate dinners. Comfortable seating and pristine decor, including spotless restrooms, add to the overall positive atmosphere.

Considerations before visiting

While La Banane impresses with its culinary offerings and service, potential visitors should be aware of a few drawbacks. The environment can be quite loud, which might impact conversations during a quiet dinner. Portion sizes tend to be on the smaller side relative to the higher price point, reflecting the restaurant’s upscale nature and focus on quality over quantity. Additionally, outdoor seating and takeout options are not available, which could be a limitation for some guests.
  • Pros: Exceptional food quality, attentive service, vibrant atmosphere, fresh seafood, premium meats, decadent desserts.
  • Cons: Loud environment, smaller portion sizes relative to price, higher price point.

Closed - Opens 5:30 PM

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

17:30–22:00

Thursday

17:30–22:00

Friday

17:30–23:00

Saturday

17:30–23:00

Sunday

17:30–22:00

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