Little Anthony’s (@little_anthonys) is a neighbourhood Italian restaurant overhauled by owner, Andreas Antoniou. Conveniently located in the heart of the financial district, Little Anthony serves classic and simple dishes with a menu set up ideally for power-lunching, with a selection of their dinner favourites available in lunch-friendly portions.
The original Little Anthony’s, founded by Bob Antoniou, was a downtown landmark for more than 17 years. After 3 months of renovation, this venue re-opened in April 2012 with a fresh new flavour and atmosphere. This restaurant seats 150 people in their main dining while offering 2 private rooms that seats 42.
I was fortunate enough to attend their media dinner previewing a few days ago. The evening featured a menu created by new executive chef Garth Legree and included selections from Matt Roulston’s well-curated wine list.
Signature Cocktail: “Milano Sunrise”
Cheese Tortellini
- Scarmoza, Saffron Bechamel, Watercress, Breadcrumb
Bacon Wrapped Dates
- Gorgonzola Filling
- I really enjoyed this bacon wrapped. Loved the Italian blue cheese filling. Wasn’t salty and really easy to eat.
{Left} 2011 Soave Classico PRA, Monteforte d’Alpano, Veneto Italy
{Right} 2010 Chianti Classico, Castello Di Verrazzano, Tuscany, Italy
I’m not a wine connoiseur, but the 2011 Soave Classico PRA white wine was simply refined and easy on the palette.
Shrimp Scampi
- Lemon Butter Sauce, Garlic, Fried Bread, Parsley & Arugula Salad
- This was my favourite starter of the night. These large shrimps were very tasty accompanied by a light arugula on the side
Tagliatelle alla Carbonara
- Pancetta, Egg Yolk, Parmigano Reggiano, Parsley, Nutmeg
- When the Tagliatelle was first presented, the pasta appeared to be a bit under-sauced. But man, was I ever wrong because it was incredibly flavourful with the mixtures of pancetta, egg yok and parmigano reggiano
Pan Seared Scallop
- Grilled Radicchio, Marjoram & Garlic Vinaigrette, Smoked Bacon
6oz Flat Iron Steak
- Potato Gnocchi, Roasted Mushrooms, Thyme & Peppercorn Sauce
Giletto di Branzino
- White Beans, Lemon Al Burro, P.E.I. Mussels, Braised Fennel, Orange
Roasted Capon
- Brown Lentils, Crispy Confit Thigh, Glazed Spring Vegetables
Lemon Sorbet
- I thought the lemon sorbet was light, easy and a great way cleanse the palette after all the entrees
Tiramisu
- The Tiramisu instilled a strong taste of coffee and cheese. The cheese filling was creamy, thick yet smooth – close to perfect for me.
Little Anthony’s is a nice place to grab some classic & simple Italian fare. Some highlights for me were the jumbo Shrimp Scampi, Tagliatelle alla Carbonara & the light and refreshing lemon sorbet, finishing it off with their classic Tiramisu. For those looking for a simple & new lunch spot in the Financial District, Little Anthony’s menu is specially designed for a power-lunch!
This meal was complimentary but Foodinthecitytoronto.com remains unbiased in our content.