The Epicurean: Dessert Trends

Just when I thought I had discovered all there was to know about my hometown, along came an American expatriate who, ironically enough, was the one who introduced me to this trendy community in the South Annex that, up until recently, had remained a hidden gem, unbeknownst to this epicurean Torontonian. Just north of College Street between Ossington and Spadina Avenues is Harbord Street, whose small-town charm and bohemian appeal can be attributed to its eclectic mix of bakeries, bistros, bookshops, music stores, restaurants, and bars.

My first encounter with this neighbourhood occurred one rainy evening not so long ago, when I had the pleasure of dining at The Harbord Room—an interesting establishment that offers a contemporary feel in an otherwise quaint, rustic ambience. The dimly lit tables, for instance, made for an ideal setting for either an intimate gathering of close friends or a romantic dinner for two, and service that evening was prompt, attentive, and friendly.

Of course, I can only speak for myself with respect to the meal (I ordered the whole grilled bronzini—and whole, indeed, it was), which, to paraphrase from the lips of a certain someone, was neither disappointing nor impressive. In other words, great company and stimulating conversation, peppered with some witty banter here and there, were the most appetizing aspects of dinner as far as I was concerned, yet a memorable dining experience it nonetheless was. The grilled bronzini? Mm ... not so much, but perhaps the risotto (with roasted squash, braised kale, toasted nuts, and fresh sheep's milk cheese), like the Ontario Harvest Venison (with squash purée and black currant jus), would have been the more delicious alternative ;).

Although the carrot cake with poached pears (served with vanilla ice cream, pistachio, and carrot cream parfait) was tempting for dessert, I opted instead for what had ultimately piqued my interest: DT Bistro, which I was told specialized in over 20 varieties of pastries, tarts, and cakes. Impressed, I most certainly was. In fact, I was quite the giddy little girl in the candy store or, in this case, this French-inspired pâtisserie.

It was still raining when we left the restaurant and crossed the street, only to discover that the bistro had closed about an hour earlier; however, perhaps upon seeing our doe-eyed expressions, Chef Donald Duong and co-founder Wayne O'Brien not only greeted us with an avuncular warmth and kindness, but also waved us in. While Chef Duong wished us a pleasant evening on his way out the door, Wayne turned the lights back on so that we could be seated, and then proceeded to provide us with the most hospitable service ever imaginable.

From apple flan and Bailey's cheesecake to blueberry parfait mousse and chocolate maple pecan, selecting from the dessert menu proved to be a bit of a challenge, but a decision was quickly made: key lime mousse and chocolate raspberry. Mmm ... a culinary delight, as well as the perfect finishing touch to a fabulous, fun-filled night.