Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Leslieville / Riverdale

It was perfect - they could do a bit of work on the entrance when you first walk in...it looks a bit dingy, industrial with an old looking elevator going up but as the doors open you are pleasantly surprised. They didn't have room at the bar and seated us against the window - which was OK too. Once we got to the main dining table, it was so nice! A very quaint comfortable and cozy environment. It was our engagement anniversary and there was a personalized note left for us at the table congratulating us, it was such a sweet gesture <3 Each food item was like a party in my mouth! With amazing fresh rich taste of all different types of flavours! We loved everything we ate. It was so beautifully presented as well, there was some items you just wanted to look at not and eat! The service was beautiful, it just flowed so smoothly, with each server explaining properly what was in each course. I think we had like 11 courses....they just kept coming! We loved every moment of it. This restaurant truly deserves a 2 Michelin rating. Looking forward to coming back :)

Beautiful dining room, attentive, well-I formed service, delicious food with an excellent selection of seemingly very fresh fish and a noise level that is actually conducive to conversation. Despite its size, the room was packed. Great for a special occasion.

Aera is one of my favourite restaurants to celebrate anything. It was my boyfriend’s birthday and I brought him to celebrate. The food is AMAZING! I ordered the rigatoni and he ordered the stuffed chicken with a side of mash potatoes. The portions are amazing you will definitely leave feeling full! The restaurant has a stunning view over the city, and it is an amazing place to take cute photos. Staff is really sweet, and definitely makes you feel welcomed. The prices are reasonable and you won’t break the bank to eat luxury.

We had a fantastic evening. Celebrated my wife’s birthday and we were very impressed with the service and food. We had a flight of margaritas ( four flavours ) Each was unique and delicious. The ceviche was so fresh and my main was absolutely delicious. Looking forward to returning for another great evening.

The service and food quality is absolutely amazing. My wife and I have been trying to get reservations for years and finally we were successful on the evening of our 35th Anniversary. From the Hostess to the servers Adam, Godwin and the AGM Johann, everyone were super attentive and provided great input about the menu options chosen. The Steak Tarta & French onion Soup, both developed tastefully with the perfect combination of herbs & spices and creatively presented. The Brome Lake Duck and poached pear a perfect combination of sweet and acid complementing the tender meat of the pine- glazed Duck. The Lamb Rack, tender and tastefully matched with the white port jus and charred broccoli, made for a mouth watering pallet. We thoroughly enjoyed the evening and ended it with a rich cappuccino and Black Forest gâteau which we romantically shared and now look forward to our next visit, hopefully soon.