Planta

The plant-based existence is one of rapid evolution. A burgeoning demographic that verges on trendy. It's not always an inclusive crowd; snobbism runs rampant and meat lovers are sometimes shunned. Almost every menu boasts a plant-based section on Toronto's diverse Restaurant scene.

In Restaurants that are exclusively plant-based, menus are increasingly elaborate. Most draw from local ingredients to enhance the dining experience. A growing number of experimenters are often spotted among the faithful, leaving many to speculate who's really who. As one of the experimenters, I'm constantly on the lookout for yummy spots.

Planta, a space offering up international influences in a chic setting, has been on my radar for quite some time. Excited and hungry it's where I found myself for this Month's Culinary Adventure.

Summer is in full swing and although I haven't done any of the quintessential summer samples like going to the beach, sitting on a patio, or even partaking in a picnic, I have gone out for some lovely dinners. It was a beautiful day outside and although it inspired a walk downtown, I chickened out and took transit. It's a twenty-minute ride from Midtown and when I arrived Downtown I discovered that I was early so I took the opportunity to run some errands.

I arrived at Planta Yorkville on time for my reservation and was greeted warmly and seated promptly. My table, in my opinion, was the best in the house, by a window and at the end of a banquette. I've walked by this Restaurant dozens of times and always imagined sitting in that exact spot. As always my early reservation got me a prime spot. As I settled in and excitedly perused the menu, I knew this would be an adventure worth documenting. I ordered the Cave Rose and sunk into my seat in preparation for a lovely meal.

Saunter into Planta Yorkville and you're greeted with a modern, contemporary space. It's a bright, fresh and youthful room where bold prints accent a monochromatic background.

Cozy seating breaks up the room while two industrial Chandeliers anchor the space. Specs of green are a highlight and tie in well with the plant-based theme.

The main course was the evening's centrepiece. A plant-based creation that had no interest in mimicking anything other than itself. It was original, satisfying, and quietly extraordinary.

This was exquisite! Creamy and comforting, it reminded me of a cozy Saturday meal at home in the Winter. The noodles were fresh and the entire dish was loaded with flavour. There were loads of mushrooms and the truffle was present with every bite. I could eat this again and again.

This was no ordinary cookie. A large, sweet, chocolate chip delight. It was warm with the chocolate melting, making every bite memorable.

This was the perfect ending to a memorable meal. It was light and refreshing with a subtle hint of lime and bitters.

The Planta experience was nothing if not memorable. The initial introduction was lovely and my Server was sweet even though there were some glitches in service. It was not well-paced. My Entree arrived while I was in the middle of my Appetizer. I also had to wait for the wine that I ordered to accompany the main, for what seemed like ages. I was nearly halfway through the meal. Thankfully, nothing got cold, and I enjoyed the meal. On a brighter note, the Hostess was great, the welcome was warm and I was made to feel very comfortable upon arrival. Overall not a complete disaster.

This Culinary Adventure was one of tremendous value. Portion sizes are hefty because the Menu was designed to share, so if you go as a group the value is even better. Drinks are reasonably priced so you can pair with your dishes without breaking the bank. For this kind of value for a three-course Dinner, I'll definitely be back.

Planta is located at 1221 Bay Street. If you find yourself in Yorkville and are craving something plant-based they're worth a visit.

Enjoy!