Barsa Taberna celebrates their 3rd year anniversary with the launch of their new summer menu, that features seasonal ingredients with a light and refreshing flare that is perfect for the warmer weather. The kitchen is headed by Chef Andres Salomon, who brings a more contemporary approach to Spanish food, alongside influences from our city of Toronto and his Chilean roots.
On a beautiful, winter Saturday morning, we ventured to Cresta, right across from the world-famous St. Lawrence Market. Formerly Pastizza up until last November, it is named after the iconic Cresta Ridge vineyards in California, and hopes to bring the casual California vibe to its innovative Italian menu, more befitting of its surrounding neighbourhood. On this day we came for brunch – a favourite weekend activity of many Torontonians.
Barsa Taberna, located next to the St. Lawrence Market at 26 Market Street, takes pride in their interior design, resembling that of Barcelona by John Tong‘s collaboration with the restaurant owner, Aras Azadiana. The 19th-century-built restaurant is revamped with works inspired by Gaudi, Picasso, and Dali which incorporate the city’s contemporary culture with bar stools, colourful bottles, abstract bulls, and flamboyant mosaics creating a dynamic atmosphere.
After watching the dazzling equestrian show, Odysseo, I met up with friends to dine at The Keg on Esplanade. It’s a short, easy drive (or cab ride) from the big white tents at the Port Lands along Lake Shore Road. Parking is also easy at the large parking lot near St. Lawrence Market.
(Don’t forget our amazing Cavalia + Keg giveaway ends tomorrow!)
Things are looking up in terms of weather in Toronto and that’s where the St. Lawrence Market becomes an epicentre with the ever-popular Farmers Market, a fresh food destination for downtowners, the GTA as well as tourists. So with the growth in condos in the neighbourhood and the overflowing after-work patio destination Esplanade nearby, enter the emerging Market Street set to heat things up starting next week.
Market St. – the small street beside the world renowned St. Lawrence Market – has had a renaissance in the last few months. Several years of revitalization culminated this year with the opening of many new dining spots in this newly reborn strip. At its the northernmost end, you’ll find Barsa Taberna – a restaurant whose concept is inspired by the dining culture in Barcelona.