Starfish Oyster Bed & Grill

Whenever my Dad (who also loves food) comes to visit Toronto, we tend to have a conversation that sounds a lot like this:

Me: "So, where should we go for dinner tonight?" 

Dad: "I don't know, you seem to have some good recommendations, I'm up for anything - why don't you pick?" 

Me: "Ok, so how about we try (insert name of new restaurant), I've heard it's awesome and I think you'll love it." 

Dad: "Well, are you sure? [pause. pause. pause]...I might actually be in the mood for some oysters" 

Me: [usually with a grin on my face by this point] "ok, how about...Starfish then? 

Dad: "Oh, well if you insist...but we did go there last time I was in town...but if you're ok with that...I would LOVE to!"

Luckily, I share my Dad's love for Starfish. I think it's the combination of the fresh oysters (shucked in front of you if you're lucky enough to nab a spot at the bar), the incredible creative seafood mains, the mussels and delicious belgian-style frites, the crisp white wines - all served with a certain panache that make this a phenomenal spot. 

• Relish:Oysters. Fresh, delicious oysters. They come with three homemade sauces, fresh horseradish...could you ask for anything better? Mussels & frites are stellar, as are all of the mains of super fresh seafood with creative accompaniments. 
• Quaff: Wine. White if possible. An overall solid wine list, and a few good glass options as well (although you'll probably need a bottle as the meals here are never quick)! 
• Feel: On a busy night it's packed with a varied crowd truly enjoying wine, great food and good company. Some booths, a few high tables and a great bar all add variety. I wouldn't say that the feel is spot on (the tables may be a bit too big and square for a more cozy feel) but it has a bit of an aloof "you're here for the oysters right?" feel. The bar is definitely the best spot.

It is slightly out of the way, but I think that actually might add to the charm. It's definitely a gem that you would walk by a thousand times and never think twice about...so please make sure you stop next time!
Enjoy!


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