Back in the summer, Nicki from View the Vibe invited me along with Stella (@foodieyu) and Vicky (@momwhoruns) to a menu tasting at Kultura. To be honest, before this invitation, I had never heard of Kultura. So I decided to do something out of the norm – which was to literally do no research about the restaurant. I did not read any reviews nor did I check out their website for their online menu – I walked into Kultura not knowing exactly what to expect.
Kultura is a really gorgeous 3 story space located along King St E. The menu is very diverse and offers anything from Italian to Asian fusion, Seafood and Steaks dishes. They pride themselves for being a “social dining” spot serving tapa style dishes.
Once we had all arrived, we decided to let the staff pick out the 12 most popular dishes from their menu.
Table Setting:
Mediterranean Naan ($12.00)
- Figs, Prosciutto, Roasted Garlic, Shaved Grana Padano
Palak Paneer Naan ($9.00)
- Truffle Oil, Jalapeno, Peppered Honey
Chicken Samosas ($11.00)
- Asiago, Sage, Spiced Apple
Ahi Tuna Cornets ($14.00)
- Nori Shell, Avocado, Red Miso Flake, Shiso Cress
Hamachi Tatak ($15.00)
- Sesame Ginger Crust, White Soy Sauce, Spicy Wakame Salad
Chilean Sea Bass ($25.00)
- Parsnip puree, Foie Gras Foam, Beet Reduction, Brussel Sprouts
Hawaiian Garlic Lobster ($22.00)
- Sweet Paprika, Thai Chilli, Corrainder
Panko Crusted Chicken Breast ($16.00)
- Endive & Green Apple Slaw, Chimichum Sauce, Orange Reduction
Mushroom Orecchiette ($16.00)
- Pinot Noir Pear Chutney, Aged Cheddar
Sous Vide Beef Tenderloin ($30.00)
- Chipotle Demi, Moroccan Spiced Corn, Ginger Gailan
Vanilla French Fries ($6.00)
- Garlic Aioli
Spiced Lamb Rack ($24.00)
- Sesame Dust, Smoked Dashi, Tempura Jalapeno
Dessert: We shared a platter of Chocolate Lava Cake, Honey Sabayon Donut Bites, Lemon Grass Creme Brulee, Cheese Cake
So everything pretty much looked pretty good but that is where the problem lies….
The venue is gorgeous. The presentation was beautiful. But it didn’t deliver well in other aspects. Beginning with the service. Yes, we were invited to a tasting so obviously the service was more than attentive. They ensured that our drinks were never empty and gave us clean plates in between dishes. Now onto the food, the dishes were either mediocre or salty – the Lobster, the beef tenderloin, the mushroom orecchiette and the Hamachi Tatak all looked fantastic but the taste didn’t live up to its presentation.
On the other hand, I did enjoy 2 dishes: the chicken samosas & the ahi tuna cornet. Those were the 2 most memorable dishes for me. It’s unfortunate that this restaurant didn’t dazzle because the venue is really beautiful. Very romantic with the candles. I would consider coming back for a drink if I’m in the area.
This meal was complimentary but Foodinthecitytoronto.com remains unbiased in our content.
i agree that their food are generally towards the saltier side. some great shots you have 🙂
Author
Thanks for reading =)
Fantastic camera work, and very candid words. Nicely done!
Author
thank you ken! 🙂