It used to be that vegetarian dining in Toronto was often more of an exercise in virtue than in good taste. Crunchy granola might be healthful for the body, but it's hell on the palate. But now a new wave of vegetarian eateries are making meat-free meals a gourmet's delight. Several of the city's finest restaurants are also offering special vegetarian tasting menus. Here are some of the best bets:
Annapurna Vegetarian Restaurant, 1085 Bathurst St. (tel. 416/537-8513; subway: Bathurst). Annapurna has been around for more than 20 years, and it's still serving Indian vegetable dishes, hearty tofu burgers, and a variety of fruit and vegetable juices to a crowd of students and boomers. In keeping with the aura of health, Annapurna hosts free meditation classes every week. Main courses C$8-$12 (US$5.60-$8.40); MC, V; Mon-Tues and Thurs-Sat 11:30am-9pm, Wed 11:30am-6:30pm.
Fressen, 478 Queen St. W. (tel. 416/504-5127; subway: Osgoode). This is a vegetarian oasis for sophisticates. From the freshly baked beet-infused buns to tender tofu with both hot tomato and sweet teriyaki sauces, this new hot spot makes every mouthful a gourmet delight. It's a hit with vegetarians and their carnivorous friends. Main courses C$12-$14 (US$8.40-$9.80); MC, V; Mon-Thurs 5:30-10pm, Fri 5:30-11pm, Sat 10:30am-3:30pm and 5:30-11pm, Sun 10:30am-3:30pm and 5:30-10pm.
Juice for Life, 336 Queen St. W. (tel. 416/599-4442; subway: Osgoode). If there's such a thing as an elixir of life, one of the bartenders at this Annex favorite is sure to find it one day. They've already developed a Bionic Brain Tonic (peach, strawberry, and orange juices with gotu kola and ginseng) and about 40 other blends intended to boost your immune system, sex drive, or mood. The noodle and rice dishes have equally esoteric names (Buddha, Green Goddess), though their contents are down-to-earth. The high-protein almond grain burgers and hemp-seed bread get top marks. Main courses C$8-$12 (US$5.60-$8.40); Mon-Fri 8:30am-6:30pm, Sat 9am-6:30pm, Sun 10am-6pm.
Kalendar may be a small bistro, but its list of vegetarian offerings is substantial.
Mezzetta offers a collection of Middle Eastern appetizers, few of which contain meat; ordering a selection of three of four makes for a substantial meal.
Millie's Bistro has a vegetarian lasagna with portobello mushrooms, sweet roasted peppers, and leeks that will make you wonder why anyone would want to add beef. The Mediterranean menu has many meat-free plates.
Senses offers a vegetarian tasting menu that changes frequently, but might include curried-squash ravioli or a salad of Jerusalem artichoke, olives, and beets. Yum!
Truffles is another top-notch restaurant with a vegetarian tasting menu. Called the Menu Terroir, it might feature the likes of white bean and truffle soup, or a salad of frisee with Roquefort, walnuts, and apples; C$65 (US$46) for five courses.
