“ Viewers of my pages know I put honesty above everything else when it comes to factual representations about my dining experiences. This wonderful find on College St in Toronto was, without a doubt, one of those moments where I truly found several hidden gems in this cozy establishment. Please allow me the opportunity to set the scene . . . I flew out to Toronto from Seattle (on a whim, no less) to attend an Authentic Flamenco performance from the Madrid Opera artists at the Royal Theatre, which is located in the *Little Italy* neighborhood of Toronto on College Street. After a fantastic show, I knew that I wanted to browse the neighborhood before heading back to the Residence Inn (please see that review, and the following review of the Sheraton City Centre location, from my vast collection of Marriott portfolio property reviews). I found this beautifully interesting restaurant and bar on a reservation website just the evening before, and I was excited that they actually took late night reservations on a Thursday. Huzzah! When I arrived a little before 11pm, there was only a single two-top that was occupied, and they were about to settle up with their bill. In other words, I was going to have this warm and inviting place practically to myself as the sole customer. After a very warm greeting from the bartender, who was also the server, I chose to sit at a small table facing the large window that looked out onto College St (for some fantastic people watching). However, the service received kept my attention the entire visit, which lasted almost two hours. After ordering a tasty N/A cerveza, we chatted about the industry and the fact I spent almost 20 years in the front-of-house. My server and I laughed at shared stories, talked about their menu, and how they've only been open for one year. I took her advice and ordered the Rigatoni alla Vodka with the addition of burrata - the best choice a mon avis! However, I was going to wait until the end and order the meal to-go. I casually sipped the alcohol-free beer while the server and I talked about all-things-Toronto/Canada, the history of this restaurant/bar, the clientele, other great dishes and drinks that they prepare, etc, etc, ad infinitum. Needless to say, I was completely entranced and captivated by such hospitable service to the point that I felt more like a member of their family than just a guest passing through. The attention to detail of service, coupled with the soft ambiance and the fantastic decor, really set my mind at ease after a long day of travel. Eventually, I loved this outing so much that I went back the second night just to have a couple of post-dinner drinks. My favorite server was there once again, there were more tables with guests enjoying their Friday night, and a DJ was softly spinning some fantastic music that matched the mood perfectly (without unnecessary volume levels that would encourage one to shout instead of talk). Bottom line - if you are looking for a unique experience with unbelievably wonderful service, excellent food, and inventive cocktail offerings, then this is your place. I cannot wait until I return once again on my next trip to Toronto, Ontario. Please tell them David sent you! Cheers!! P.S. Anastasia is an absolute diamond. She is the epitome of what a bartender/server/storyteller should be without being over the top. Additionally, she is a true credit to her profession, and to the ownership of this fine establishment. ”

“ Had a great time dining at Alice. The service from all the staff was very friendly and attentive. Our main server gave us great recommendations on items to choose. The steak frites we ordered rare came out perfectly and was very delicious. The Korean fried cauliflower was a big hit - lots of flavour with a good crunch. Their cocktails were also well prepared, especially the old fashion that went down smoothly. They also have great options and savings as part of their happy hour menu. Highly recommend dining at this restaurant. ”

“ It’s a bit tight in here but the food was delicious and service was fast. The salmon tartare was delicious and I was surprised how good the steak frites were. The espresso martini was perfect. Our server Jenna was so nice, attentive and friendly. We will definitely be coming back here. We have to try the tomahawk and corn ribs. ”

“ Team outing at Alice Restaurant was a success! Loved the cozy vibe of the upstairs private room. The beef tartare was my favorite—absolute perfection. Cocktails were on point too Big shoutout to Xavier, our awesome server! Service was great overall, just a bit of a wait on drinks. Still, such a fun night with the team. Would definitely come back! ”

“ This is a cozy restaurant with a couple of tables, for 2 & 4. The decoration is nice and feels like home. They have a nice bar (Liquor and beer on tap) and a wine rack. Came on a weekday for dinner and it was almost packed with customers. I tried “Street Corn Ribs” and “Rigatoni alla Vodka”. They were both delicious and creamy. And the service was good. ”

“ We had the best dinner reservation here to celebrate a birthday. Customer service is impeccable! They know how to cater and take care of their guests. If you can do their happy hour it’s definitely worth it. Highly recommend the Tomahawk platter for two served with corn, fries, mozzarella sticks and salad which all were served in large portions so prepare to feast! Rigatoni pasta was absolutely delicious and a must try. I’m not sure why they don’t have a menu for their desserts but if you ask they definitely serve lava cake or cheesecake. Definitely coming back! ”

“ The food here exceeded my expectations! Our server was kind enough to chat with us about her experience and recommendations (one of which was to try the steak and fries with the pasta sauce - scoring recommendation!) The food was delicious and flavoured - the corn was seasoned perfectly as well. It's a smaller restaurant so it is a bit on the louder side but I recommend their happy hour (I'll be back for it!) ”

“ We had a bday dinner reservation here for 12 of us. And everything went perfect. We had the happy hr tomahawk steaks for 4 and added the calamari, pasta and a whooolle lot of cocktails. The food of course was great, but the service was definite the perfect gravy on top. James was our waiter and he was so great, was able to handle all of us, not a single mistake and really added to the whole experience. Ooh and go check out the bathroom mirror downstairs for some cute selfies ;) ”