Evolutionary Eclectic Fusion

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e have been on quite the journey these passed weeks as we’ve visited, indulged, and analyzed the fruitful dishes from Italy, France, Spain, Poland, Hungary, Japan, India, Sweden , Holland, and Australia. Now we wanted to spice up our next encounter for mouth watering and taste bud blasting dishes. And we have found it! Nestled around the corner from Front and Wellington Street located in the St Lawrence Market/Old Town area of downtown Toronto is Colborne Lane. You would never think to find such an amazing yet hidden gem of a restaurant on this back alley street. This style of food is categorized as Contemporary Eclectic or Fusion. Fusion cuisine combines elements of various culinary traditions and cultures that usually don’t tie in with each other, or you would think so before trying. Its presentation on the plate is neatly placed in a way that accentuates its mystery, flavors, colors, and a dare to try it. Claudio Aprile is the owner and Executive chef of this innovative and highly acclaimed restaurant.  He is the only chef in Toronto to receive 6 out of 5 stars.

 His concept is based on more art and flavor than it is on portions. You are advised to order two appetizers or two entrees depending on your hunger. As mentioned before, the dishes preparation revolves around exquisite taste rather than a full plate. I had the privilege to sit down here on a Friday night and be captured from the outside noises to have my senses guide me to a whole new level. You will be in for a treat when it comes to the taste, but you will also be in for a ride when it comes to the bill. Appetizers range from $14-18, which include salads, duck confit, soups, and mousse influenced dishes with fruits and vegetables.  Entrees start at $29 a dish and go up to $41. You then have the delicacy of desserts.  The cheapest dessert starts at $12 and rises to $17. Now, as to some this price range may sound absurd but let me reassure you that you will not be disappointed with the atmosphere, the service, and the rush of euphoria that is going to explode and rush through your body when you take that first bite.This is not an everyday restaurant and should be treated as a privilege to not only afford it but experience every moment in here.

Enough with the teasing let us get down to brass tax and talk details on the beautifully crafted dishes.  Here’s a quick list of some of the succulent dishes available at Colborne Lane. 

micro greens- bitter orange + sunflower seeds + coiled root vegetables

squash soup- duck confit + brown butter + maple + asian pear

foie gras- mousse + apricot + brioche + elderflower + hibiscus
beet salad -grapefruit + fennel sponge + pecan + goat's cheese
seared scallops- coconut milk + sweet chili + citrus fruit + thai basil + crème fraiche
risotto wild mushroom + reggiano + whipped mascarpone + black truffle

arctic char butter-poached lobster + beluga lentils + braised leeks + lemon
black cod saikyo miso + egg tofu + hot and sour mushroom broth + yu choy
lamb loin manchego polenta + tomato + king oyster mushroom + purple basil

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hether you’ve tried it all or you think you have, you haven’t. The amount of science and evolving that will go in to food will be never ending. This is just the beginning. I highly advise you make an appointment, take a date, family, or by yourself, but just go!
Bon Appétit!