Restaurant Review: The Rushton

740 St Clair Ave. West 416.658.7874

When two food connoisseurs recommended this restaurant in the same week I knew I had to try it. What could be better? My grandson Brad and I decided that this perfect for our weekly dining excursion. Elaine is my ‘foodie’ friend. She has just returned from Israel. The three of us agreed to meet for dinner and have new dining experience. There are no reservations. Come early. It is a busy place. The large patio was packed on this hot evening. We wanted to see the action so opted for an indoor spot. A very small open kitchen prepares the most amazing food. We were entertained all evening watching the artistically plated food being presented to the patrons. The dishes are white square, rectangular and unusual shapes. Our server, Tobey, was so delightful, patient and efficient. She couldn’t do enough to please us. The young lady that served the water and presented the giant pepper shaker was so sweet. She is off to the University of New Brunswick in the fall. We loved this place before we even tasted a bite. Things just got better and better. The high quality bread was served with a white bean, cream cheese and herb dip. I want that recipe.
I like the idea that the appetizers can be served as a half portion or dinner size. My friend and I both opted for the large size Asparagus and Portabella.( 9/14) The portabella mushrooms were plump, moist and fantastic. The greens were fresh and crisp with orange and balsamic vinegar. Pickled beets and sautéed asparagus graced the plate. For an additional fee you can add chicken, steak, shrimp or salmon. We had five perfectly grilled shrimp garnished with a red pepper aioli. It was a perfect meal for a hot evening.
We were so full.
Miami Vice offers Miami-style BBQ glazed short ribs and grilled quail served with a garnish of baby greens.($!2.00) Sherrif’s Wings are served with fiery caramelized jalapeno onion and sambal sauce and baked parotta bread.($12.00)Mussels are prepared with coconut milk, red curry, tomato concasse, garlic and shallot (9/14) Braised Endive is combined with baby arugula and fennel and dressed with lemon vinaigrette, Roquefort, walnuts and an apricot/thyme chutney are added to the plate. (9/14)
Full plate entrees are also varied and beautifully plated. The burgers are favorites here. and was certainly a favorite on this evening. Classic Burger ,100% Alberta beef, is served with tomatoes, lettuce and served with frites and garlic aoli.($15.00) For an additional fee you can add caramelized onions, roasted red pepper, aged cheddar, avocado and many other choices. Brad ordered the Bouillabaisse. It was an enormous large white bowl filled with assorted shellfish with salmon, halibut and calamari served in a spicy tomato fish broth. Brad claims it was one of the best he has ever had. The Lamb Shank is braised and served in a red wine and tomato broth with roasted garlic, mashed potatoes and French green beans. ($24.00) The Grilled Salmon is served over wild rice and asparagus with a roasted red pepper coulis. ($18.00)
Other items are on the printed menu. In addition there are several daily specials.
Brad and I are doing a survey to find the best Flourless Chocolate Cake. This may be the winner. Chocolaty, creamy, smooth and so delicious.
No wonder this place is always crowded. We had a great evening and excellent food. We walked a few blocks after dinner. This is an interesting part of town. There were several other interesting restaurants in this area. I must come back.