In a city packed with moody cocktail bars and late-night snack spots, Dear Darling is, well, simply darling. With its motto of “late nights, low lights and strong drinks,” it’s definitely living up to its name.
The new Toronto kitchen-cocktail bar-third space opened on Richmond St West last month, bringing intimate dining and playful cocktails to the Fashion District, alongside rotating weekly events like saxophone and jazz nights, weekend DJs and hand-curated music that shapes the mood each evening.
But the steak frites are probably what will get most people through the door. During happy hour, the dish is available for $25 and features Australian wagyu steak served with fries, broccolini and aioli, with thick slices of steak fanned out beside a generous pile of fries finished with plenty of grated cheese.
Shareable plates include Honey Butter Truffle Fries, which layer crispy fries with honey butter, truffle, parmesan and herbs for a salty-sweet combination, and Crispy Ahi Sushi, where crispy rice is topped with marinated ahi tuna, avocado, black sesame and spicy mayo. Mains include a Korean Short Rib glazed with a sweet-and-savoury Korean-inspired sauce and a Grilled Yuzu Sea Bass served with jasmine rice, yuzu and broccolini.
For something a bit lighter, the Whipped Ricotta Dip combines creamy ricotta with honey, chilli oil and herbs, served alongside flatbread for scooping.
Of course, you’ll want to wash it all down with some playful cocktail creations!
The Darling Spritz mixes elderflower, guava and sparkling rosé, while the Guilty Pleasure combines tequila with orange, pineapple, almond and mint. For a jolt of caffeine, sip on the Banana Café, which blends banana-infused vodka with creamy espresso.
Finish with a classic tiramisu or an affogato made with vanilla ice cream and espresso, then call it a night.
Dear Darling is located at 612 Richmond St W. Happy hour runs Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.