Summer Patio & Menu Guide: Brassaii

As Toronto begins to thaw out, we are all eagerly trying to find that perfect patio to invade for after work drinks, throw on a pair of shades, bask in the sun and be seen.  Well, right in the heart of King West, is Brassaii (461 King Street West) a stylish Mediterranean-inspired resto whose patio is the place to be seen and all the while have great food.

Just recently, Brassaii released their Spring/Summer menu under new executive chef, Chris Kalisperas.  The focus of the menu of fresh and seasonal ingredients that will inspire and energize.

Swordfish Carpaccio ($17):
Garnished with fennel, grapes, watercress and extra virgin olive oil was light.  A perfect summer dish that would not feel heavy after a long hot day.

Burrata ($17):
A vegetarian friendly dish, this was one of my favorites over the course of the evening. Grilled eggplant over fresh rosemary, almonds and white balasmic – it gave the essence of a meat dish without the meat.  Flavorful and rich with all the textures working well together.

Risotto ($22):
This dish was absolutely to die for.  White asparagus, wild leeks, fava beans and parmigiano-reggiano made for an absolutely explosion of flavors in your mouth.  Combined with a glass of white wine of the patio.  Served as a main dish, this will leave you licking your plate and begging for mouth.

Tuna ($29):
After eating this, I don’t think I will be able to eat any other tuna other than Grilled Yellowfin.  This main dish comes alongside a puree of parsnips (yum!) and green lentils keeping it healthy and fresh.  The tuna has also been kept on the tart side with capers and chili.  Overall, another healthy and delicious choice for summer.

With Brassaii’s new Spring/Summer menu catering to the Financial District elite while keeping their price point in line for all the hip-twentysomethings to enjoy ($13-$40) alike be it on the patio or in the restaurant, Brassaii is sure to be a hit this summer amongst all.