TORONTO — Boasting a new name, a new chef and a new mixologist, Ink Entertainment has relaunched its French bistro, formerly known as La Société, just in time for its third anniversary this month.
Charles Khabouth, owner of LS and CEO of Ink Entertainment, collaborated with award-winning Toronto-based designers Munge Leung to bring a modern and dynamic aesthetic to the Bloor Street destination. As part of the redux, the French bistro, which is now called LS, was updated with a more vibrant ambiance as well as a dramatic open-concept bar, two private dining rooms and new food and cocktail menus under the culinary leadership of newly appointed executive chef Romain Avril and mixologist Nishan Nepulangoda.
“We are reimagining classic French bistro culture and taking LS in a new direction,” said Khabouth. “As a company, we are constantly evolving and innovating, so we are excited to apply a fresh look and feel to the restaurant while remaining true to our classic sophistication. We look forward to welcoming a more eclectic audience to our revitalized space.”
The newly expanded menus, including a late-night menu, offer Avril’s take on bistro classics with a modern French twist. The fare is rooted in the chef’s seasonal, rustic cuisine with influences from the culture and flavours of France. The Paris-born chef has spent more than 10 years perfecting his craft while working in some of France’s most notable kitchens, including Domaine de la Bretesche and Château du Pélavé. He was formerly sous chef at Colborne Lane and Chef de Cuisine at Origin North in Toronto.
Guests dining at LS will be treated to a unique selection of culturally inspired dishes ranging from bites to small and big plates. Among the menu updates, are a Foie Gras Hot Dog on a Brioche Bun, the classic C’s Burger, a Canadian Lobster Brioche Sandwich and Pan-seared Sea Scallops and Bouillabaisse. LS will offer a special $29 prix-fixe dinner Thursdays to Saturdays from 9 p.m. onward.
LS will also add new drinks to its cocktail menu with the introduction of Nepulangoda behind the bar. Highly recognized for his work at Toronto’s Japanese restaurant and sake bar, Blowfish, Nepulangoda has garnered accolades and awards such as the Grey Goose Pour Masters Award in 2012. Nepulangoda’s drinks list includes exclusive spring- and summer-inspired concoctions such as the Cucumber and Lemon Grass Cooler, Bella Donna and the Polynesian Storm, all consisting of house-made ingredients, including syrups, garnishes and flavoured ice cubes.
