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Summer may be over but bright plates, delicious happy-hour cocktails and cheery get-togethers with friends are never out of season. For all of that and more, we’re heading to Ceci Bar, a brand-new Latin-inspired patio and bar by Oliver & Bonacini at the corner of Yonge street and Front street. It's open now!
Billed as the cool younger sister to the luxurious and much-loved O&B spot, Leña, Ceci Bar caters to the next generation of diners looking for an incredible night out. Named after the daughter of O&B Corporate Executive Chef Anthony Walsh, Cecilia, this new gem is already one of our favourite restaurants in downtown Toronto.
Stepping inside, you'll fall in love with Ceci Bar’s lively vibe. Once you pull your eyes away from the stunning mosaic behind the bar, the space’s pops of orange and uptempo Latin music will keep the energy high and the good times rolling all night long. This vibrant oasis feels like a trip to a tropical destination; Ceci Bar is waiting to be your next escape as the weather in the city starts to cool down. There’s even a charming, covered patio that you’ve got to visit, stat, before bundling up becomes necessary to venture outdoors.
Things heat up even more on the menu, which spans familiar pan-Latin bites with some fun twists. Chef Andrew Piccinin (Jump, Leña, Canoe) and chef Juan Alvarez (Rosalinda) have masterminded a food program that's as ambitious and colourful as the restaurant itself. To start, share snacks like yuca fries, perfect for dunking into a delectable citrus aïoli; hand-carved jamón; mushroom birria, carnitas or haddock tacos; and vegetarian chicharrón. Be warned, though — these bites are so tasty, you’ll be duelling with your friends over each piece, until the last mouthwatering morsel.
Then, look to the small, large or sharing plates for the real show-stoppers. Classic gaucho beef empanadas with a "chiminasty" sauce are a nod to a fan-favourite dish at Leña; the chorizo verde burger, spicy seafood courses or the 36-ounce bistecca and frites are pure fun from start to finish. Pair your flavor-packed meal with one of Ceci Bar’s signature drinks, like the Flaming Rum Punch—served in a fresh pineapple and set aflame—or choose from four refreshing tequila margaritas.
We'd gladly stop in for Ceci Bar's electric energy any time of day, but their Happy Hour specials are pretty irresistible. Tuesday to Friday from 4 p.m.–6 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.–6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m.–4 p.m., enjoy cocktails for as low as $6, half-price bottles of wine (wow!) and select snacks for only $7. If those prices don't put a smile on your face, we don't know what will.
Ceci Bar is the newest red-hot destination, smack-dab in Toronto's bustling core, that's ready and waiting to host your next night out with friends. Plus, with such incredible happy hour deals, we're ready to make this spot our new go-to.
To learn more or reserve your experience at Ceci Bar, click here.
