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This format spurs Bennett’s creativity ever further. “We don’t just put food on plates; we try to take guests somewhere with each dish. The tasting menu format lets us tell a story and evolve it over time. It allows for rhythm — like composing music. There’s a pace and a build. You can take people from subtle to bold, light to rich, and end on something quiet,” he says. “It’s also a great way to explore technique and seasonal ingredients without having to cram it all into one plate. It’s thoughtful. And it gives people time to actually slow down and be present.”

So where does Bennett go when he wants to indulge in something special? Here are his favourite spots to eat and drink in Toronto.

BEST DATE-NIGHT SPOT

, 96 Harbord St.

“It’s intimate, warm, and the food is always spot-on. Small menu, big flavour. You can actually talk to each other, which makes it a great date place. The wine list is excellent, and it always feels like the kind of place you can settle into for the night. No pressure, just great food and a quiet atmosphere. It’s one of the few places I’ve been to more than once. It feels effortless — tight menu, good wine, and food that’s clearly made with care. The kind of spot I trust to always get it right. Between working in the kitchen and taking care of my two little kids, I naturally do a lot of home cooking, but Dreyfus holds a special appeal to me because I walk away with the feeling that I’ve enjoyed something I can’t replicate at home. To me, that’s the point of eating out and why I keep returning to Dreyfus.”

BEST BAKERY

, 1938 Danforth Ave.

HIDDEN GEM

, 1727 Dundas St. W.

THE LAST BEST THING YOU ATE

, 1580 Bayview Ave.

CURRENT OBSESSION

, various locations

FANCY DINNER

, 88 Avenue Rd.

COMFORT FOOD

, various locations

BEST DESSERT

, 283 Rushton Rd.

LUNCH SPOT

, 1276 Danforth Ave.

BEST LATE-NIGHT CRAVING SPOT

, various locations

BEST TAKEOUT

, 2750 Danforth Ave.

FAVOURITE WEEKEND BRUNCH PLACE

, 1963 Queen St. E.

FAVOURITE COFFEE SHOP

, various locations

BEST COCKTAIL BAR

, 607 College St.

PLACE I’M DYING TO TRY

, 20 Victoria St.