TORONTO — Liberty Entertainment Group’s (LEG) latest restaurant concept, DaNico, has opened at 440 College Street in Toronto.
The 60-seat restaurant is helmed by executive chef Daniele Corona, who was previously executive chef of LEG’s Don Alfonso 1890 Toronto. Under his leadership, Don Alfonso 1890 was awarded a Michelin star in 2022; named Best Italian Restaurant in the World 2021 by 50 Top Italy; and awarded Meal of the Year 2021 Mulino – Caputo Award for its multi-course prix-fixe tasting menu.
At DaNico, chef Corona’s signature menu focuses on the modern Italian culinary tradition, combined with modern Asian influences. Standouts from its signature tasting menu include micro-tortellini stuffed with Ontario lamb braised in Barbera wine, caramelized red onion, smoked eel and fresh mint; wild black cod steamed and deglazed with miso, white asparagus, sturgeon oscetra caviar and vermouth sauce; and strawberry panna cotta, rhubarb marinade, goat ice cream, vanilla sable and olio d’oliva. Highlights from its à la carte menu include wild North American snapper in confit style, olio d’oliva, charred artichoke, green-pepper sauce and black garlic; spaghetti ai funghi locali e tartufo nero; and Nova Scotia lobster with Sicilian caponata, buffalo-mozzarella foam, basil pesto and lobster reduction.
DaNico’s wine program is available by the glass or bottle or as part of a classic or premium wine pairing to complement the tasting menu. The wine list features more than 450 labels. A selection of revamped classic cocktails is also available.
Designed by Nadia Di Donato, VP Creative director at LEG, DaNico is housed in the old Scotiabank building, and the original bank vault now holds wine. Notable details include an entryway marked by towering wood doors, steel-pillared window treatments that resemble the pipes of a church organ, a 27-foot copper pillar and a luxurious dining area with smooth and cozy velvet banquettes.
