Some of the best joys in life are experienced through friendship and that is exactly what Toronto's new French restaurant is all about. Recette, located on Queen Street West, is brought to the food scene by restaurateur Naveen Chakravarti and chef Milo Beaubien-Wright.
The pair became friends while working at restaurants across the street from each other over the course of the pandemic. As the friendship blossomed, so too did their ideas. Chef Milo wanted to create approachable French food that goes beyond stereotypical norms like steak frites or duck confit. Chakravarti was also eager to create more complicated dishes while staying in line with his other establishments. So together, they came up with the idea where Kanye meets French, "More than anything, we wanted to work together and create a foundation for a long time." says Chakravarti.
The duo were eager to acquire a modern space on Queen Street West and have made a home where Apres Wine Bar was once located. The design of the space takes a minimalist approach with the addition of neon lighting and woodwork. Inspiration for the restaurant was largely taken from supper clubs like Buonanotte and the 2010s The Original Lobby.
The restaraunt is slowly building a natural wine program to seamlessly complement its vibrant dishes. The cocktails are well balanced, approachable and full of flavour. "We hope the neighbourhood loves us as much as we love the neighbourhood," says Chakravarti.
Located at 1166 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1J5 and open Wednesday through Sunday from 6- 11 p.m. Opened on April 13th, Recette has only just begun to take French cuisine to the next level.
