Linny's

Word has it, good nosh not only nourishes, it soothes the soul. It's one culture's food language that has been adopted universally. It's a relatable dialect that breathes familiarity into every eating encounter. From morsels to mouthfuls, it's perfecting the art of light eating.

In Toronto, a hotbed of cultural eats, there are many places to nosh. Favourites include Delis that deliver, Bagel Houses that hit the spot and Pizzarias that please the palate. Linny’s a recent addition to the trendy Ossington Strip is one of Toronto’s most discussed new Restaurants. Their take on a beautifully imagined Deli Steakhouse boasts a section on the Menu dedicated to Noshes.

Hungry and anxious to partake it's where I found myself for yet another Culinary Adventure.

As one Legendary Athlete penned after his return from retirement, I'M BACK! Back doing two of my favourite things; Eating Out and playing with words.

Spring’s arrival although riddled with fluctuating temperatures had me giddy. It was a beautiful day, 8 degrees with the sun sporting a constant grin. The commute to Linny’s was about a 30-minute ride and I landed on Ossington unscathed despite a few wrong turns from my rideshare driver. Choosing a Restaurant for this Culinary Adventure was not without struggle. Toronto has seen its already burgeoning Restaurant scene expanding with copious amounts of new choices. I chose Linny’s because while researching, I found that they were at or near the top of all the “best new Restaurants” lists. I was hoping for a seamless Adventure now that I was back in the saddle.

I was on time for my reservation and took a brief moment to take in my surroundings before entering Linny’s doors. The greeting was warm and prompt and before long I was being ushered to my seat at the Bar. I cozied up with the Menu, enjoyed easy Banter with the Bartenders and ordered my customary glass of Sparkling.

Classics are coveted, and Linny’s Cozy Space emotes a stir at every turn. You’re greeted by a Spunky Bar that is well-lit and sleekly designed. A slight ascend leads you to a more muted yet Chic Dining Room.

Linen-lined tables are a reminder of a more delicate time, while the sound of Jazz booms to punctuate the experience. Flame hues permeate the Dining Room as guests enjoy views from the Kitchen. The warmth of the room is balanced with splashes of colourful Artwork.

An innovative take on a Classic, this was the perfect start to my meal. They had me at Chicken skin and that Chicken skin was giving me life. Tangy and crunchy, each bite set you to a depth worthy of chatter. It's not easy to make a Caesar Salad stand out but this take managed to pair savoury and rich with time-honoured elements. A true winner!

My go-to in any Steakhouse or in this case a Deli Steakhouse is always the Tenderloin. I've never been disappointed. This time was no exception. The perfect cook, medium rear with a slight sprinkling of coarse salt. Buttery tenderness is undefeated. Simple yet satisfying!

Potatoes are notoriously boring, but these were anything but. A taste of Home with elevated flavours, this was the perfect partner for my Tenderloin. The sauce was complex, a well-executed recipe. So delicious I had to refrain from licking the bowl!

Lush and full-bodied this was the perfect compliment to the Tenderloin. It lingered and I longed for more after the last sip.

"It's like a Holiday." The Bartender's sentiment and I couldn't agree more. Spicy, with a hint of sourness and flavours that are continuously playing on your palate, this was the perfect end to my Meal.

This was a very refreshing experience. I don't usually sit at the Bar on these Adventures so I didn't know what to expect. I love being pleasantly surprised. Occasional Banter coupled with Menu knowledge in a slightly more casual setting is not a bad way to spend an Evening. It didn't lack anything I usually would get in a Fine Dining experience. All my questions were answered and all my needs were met. No complaints!

Considering the concept, I would say that this Restaurant is on par with a quality Steakhouse. Expect to pay for quality ingredients and a superior setting. My Bill was a bit lower than anticipated because it just happened that the General Manager is someone I used to work with nearly a decade ago and she took the Cocktail off the Bill. Small World. I had no idea she was still in the Industry and it has no bearing on this review.

If you ever find yourself on the Trendy Ossington Strip, Linny’s is worth a visit.

Enjoy!