Introducing: Furlough, a new Trinity Bellwoods bistro and cocktail lounge from the owners of BarChef
Name: Furlough Neighbourhood: Trinity Bellwoods Contact Info: 924 Queen St. W., 647-348-2525, furloughtoronto.com, @FurloughToronto Previously: Ursa Owners: Brent VanderVeen (sommelier, previously of Rain and Kultura) and Frankie Solarik (bartender), both of BarChef Chef: Justin Newrick (La Société, Windsor Arms Hotel)
The Food: Small and large plates, including a platter of East Coast oysters; a pillowy pain au lait roll stuffed with foie gras and caramelized apples; and a creamy squid ink risotto studded with seared scallops. Weekend brunch service is scheduled to start in the spring.
The Drinks: Unlike the hyper-modern creations at BarChef, Furlough’s cocktail list is divided into 16 spirit-forward classics (Toronto, Last Word, Aviation), and 16 original recipes that make use of housemade syrups, bitters and booze-soaked fruit. There’s also a short wine list, a handful of eclectic microbrews and absinthe—complete with tableside fountain service (and a custom-built, bar-mounted fountain that’s on the way).
The Place: Think classic bistro: Parisian-style stools, a marble-topped bar and a wall peppered with vintage paintings, plus a tin ceiling to top it all off.
