Power Hour
Lunch spots where you can seal the deal on a budget By Denise Balkissoon
Image credit: Jack Dylan
Expense accounts are evaporating all along Bay Street. What’s a desperate deal-maker to do? These sophisticated restaurants offer fab midday meals and reasonable receipts: with careful ordering, two people can dine well for $60 or less. If only getting that contract were as easy as making a reservation.
1. GREAT COOKS ON EIGHT
401 Bay St., 8th flr., 416-203-1077
The vibe: Positively electric, with chatty suits enjoying a bird’s-eye view of Bay Street.
The plate: Six ounces of farmed organic Nova Scotia salmon ($19) topped with lime butter and
pistachios. Pair it with a flight of Ontario wines ($8).
Deal-sealing odds: Great. Killer victuals, but
a bit loud for nitty-gritty negotiations.
2. TUTTI MATTI
364 Adelaide St. W., 416-597-8839
The vibe: The long room has a rustic charm—
a soothing environment for anxious investors.
The plate: At $15, the prix fixe is a scandalous bargain. Soup is followed, perhaps, by fettuccine con funghi and dessert. Spring for flawless espresso.
Deal-sealing odds: Pretty good. Sit near the back
to avoid the clatter of the open kitchen.
3. SIGNATURES
220 Bloor St. W., 416-324-5885
The vibe: With plush red chairs, linen tablecloths and lunching ladies, it’s pure old-school opulence.
The plate: A three-course menu might bring a white bean soup, a seafood cobb salad with loads of lox, cookies and Illy coffee, all for $20.
Deal-sealing odds: Good. Window seats offer garden views and respite from the lame muzak.
4. CHEZ VICTOR
30 Mercer St., 416-883-3431
The vibe: Its steel and glass decor is attractive
but serious, just like the well-dressed set finalizing contracts over walnut-topped tables.
The plate: Curried beef brisket ($22).
Deal-sealing odds: Excellent. Midday mains
in the mid-teens leave money for liquid courage
from the consignment-only wine list.
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