DaNico has been open mere months, and is already raking in the awards. A place that conceals extravagant décor inside its stately outer shell also reveals a Michelin-inspired menu created by one of the city’s most exciting chefs. Recently awarded the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, DaNico’s exceptional offerings are already being recognized as some of the city’s best.
Created by Liberty Entertainment Group, DaNico brings fine dining to the corner of College and Bathurst streets. Housed in a former bank building — the type of structure that calls to mind the grandeur of another time — the restaurant boasts soaring ceilings, a 3000-bottle wine cellar in the bank’s original vault, and works by Dalí, Damien Hirst, Mr. Brainwash and other luminaries of the art world.
With Michelin-starred executive chef Daniele Corona in the kitchen, it’s also home to food that combines Italian tradition with pops of Asian inspiration. As artistic as the paintings on the walls, Corona’s dishes also tell the story of his impressive career. Formerly of Don Alfonso 1890, chef is no stranger to the precision, the refinement — the wow factor — of fine dining’s greatest hits.
Offering prix fixe and à la carte options, together with provocative cocktails and wines, DaNico wows guests with offerings that are as refined as they are surprising. Put dreams of nonna-style pastas to bed before you visit; chef Corona’s menu marries whimsy with culinary expertise in a way that’s bold, refreshing, and peppered with joy. Presented on striking plates, bowls, even blown glass, each dish is seriously ‘grammable, sure, but also delightfully likely to spark wonder in its intended recipient.
This January, in recognition of its impeccable service, top-notch cuisine and winning atmosphere, DaNico was presented with the Award of Excellence by DiRōNA, the Distinguished Restaurants of North America.
Founded in 1990, DiRōNA, is committed to discovering and honouring restaurants in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean that offer guests exceptional culinary experiences.
“We are proud to have been recognized in our first three months of business,” said chef Corona, in a press release. “The DiRōNa Award of Excellence is an incredible achievement for our team, given it holds immense prestige within the dining and hospitality communities globally and serves as a trusted symbol of excellence.”
“This important award continues to raise the bar for DaNico,” added Nick Di Donato, CEO of Liberty Entertainment Group. “We remain steadfast in our mission to Michelin... and to our vision to elevate Toronto’s fine-dining community and hospitality scene and be recognized amongst the absolute best on the world’s hospitality stage.”
Experience DaNico, the city’s newest fine-dining destination, Wednesday to Sunday. To reserve, visit Danicotoronto.com.
