The Strathcona is one of Toronto’s great hangouts for tourists and locals.
The busy neighbourhood is great for people-watching. The action around the home offers something for anyone to do. And, of course, the food here is outstanding — even more so since this past spring’s menu update, and especially now that our Summer Tasting Menu is in effect. For under $20, you get one of our signature dishes AND a paired beverage, curated by our super-talented culinary team.
Monday — Gin and Tacos
A refreshing gin and tonic works well with our famous Street Side Tacos because it doesn’t compete with the flavourful Mexican spices. We chose Gin Twenty-One from Vaughan, Ontario’s Last Straw Distillery (Vaughan is just to the northwest of Toronto) and not just because it won gold at the 2018 Canadian Artisanal Spirits Competition. We love the citrus and juniper profile of the gin, and how well it goes with the Elderflower Tonic we mix it with.
Tuesday — Fruity Beer and Spicy Chicken
Our Firecracker Chilli Chicken was made to enjoy with a cold beer, and we chose one of Vancouver’s finest exports: False Creek Raspberry Ale from Granville Island Brewing. Combining premium malt and hops with authentic Fraser Valley raspberries, this fruity brew balances out the spice in the chicken nicely.
Wednesday — Cider and Thai
The zing in our Thai Chicken Nachos and the slightly sweet apple/pear Rood Apples Cider were made for each other. This cider – one of the Niagara region’s finest – has a crisp finish and cleanses the palate, preparing you for another delicious handful of nachos. Interestingly, “rood” means “red” in Dutch, and the name comes from the five kinds of red apples that go into making this cider.
Thursday — Squid and Lager
Crispy meets crisp with the inspired pairing of our fan-favorite Calamari Fritti and one of Ontario’s best-kept secrets, Storyteller Lager. With a not-too-powerful taste and a clean finish, this light-not-light beer goes well with fried anything because it won’t fill you up.
Friday — Wine and Hummus
After a long week, a lovely glass of wine and something easy is always a good idea. This pairing satisfies both. We chose Peller Estates’ Merlot and Chardonnay here because (a) it’s one of Ontario’s best wineries, (b) both wines are easy to drink and (c) they’re flavourful enough to compliment the richness of our hummus without overpowering it.
Whether you’re coming down from the hotel for a bite or joining us to watch a game, these specials will make any summer night better. See you at the Strath!