Toronto's core continues to sprout fantastic wine and dine establishments. For any occasion, or if you're planning to enjoy a concert at Massey Hall (across the street), be sure to work this bar into your evening. This is the place to come if you want to enjoy a great bottle or glass of wine and well-crafted appetizers.

In addition to the enviable wine list, with an abundance of hot Ontario VQA wines, you can slip into the latest trend in Martinis or Mojitos. The latter comes in six flavours. I loved the Blackberry Mojito for its fresh fruit and intoxicating blend of syrups, mint, soda and Captain Morgan Rum.  The Wine Baroness enjoyed the De Sousa Riesling Reserve, with it's sophisticated elegance, charm and refreshing crispness.

Dynamic Executive Chef Derek Kennedy passionately ensures that only the most interesting wines make it onto the wine list.  And he artfully leads the establishment with a food philosophy that requires all cuisine to be: made from scratch local produce seasonally available organic where possible Derek's French training is evident as he eloquently describes these factors. Gastronomic creations are always fresh and appealing, often with marinades, reductions or sauces. Fare includes Black Tiger Shrimp, Vegetable Spring Rolls, Mini Bison Burgers, BBQ Duck Wonton and Mini Berkshire Pork Sandwiches.  I dove into the Mini Crab Cakes with Chipotle Ailoli and Asian Slaw. I may not have looked completely refined, but I was as happy as a nun on Sunday.

As I looked around, I realized Pantages Martini Bar is a very sleek setting.  The double-sided fireplace and  glowing onyx bar are a futuristic touch. Lounge guests are all attractive and well dressed this fine evening. In fact they're very attractive!  Or is my brain just starting to dance the Mojito-Swindle?? The ultra-high book shelf separates the bar from another seating room known as the library -  perfect for an informal get-together and more quietude  : )

Pantages Martini Bar Website    Eight Wine Bar Website (sister bar)