Il Fornello

Toronto has a wealth of Italian restaurants, but small local chain Il Fornello has become something of an institution. Its hallmark is flexibility. Salads, such as the Caesar and the excellent Roma (a mix of greens, goat cheese, walnuts, and roasted peppers), are available in half- and full-size portions. Pastas range from traditional fettuccine Alfredo to a lighter linguine with chicken, pesto, plum tomatoes, and pine nuts. In most cases, you can substitute rice pasta for wheat, a thoughtful option that makes Il Fornello a great option for anyone with a wheat allergy or celiac disease. The long list of pizzas includes combinations like braised onion with Gorgonzola and fresh rosemary (pizzas can be made with wheat-free dough, too).

The King Street West location is right across the street from Roy Thomson Hall and down the block from the Royal Alexandra and Princess of Wales theaters (servers know to pick up the pace when you're watching the clock before a performance). Other branches are at Queen's Quay Terminal (tel. 416/861-1028), 576 Danforth Ave. (tel. 416/466-2931), Bayview Village (tel. 416/227-1271), and 1560 Yonge St., just north of St. Clair Avenue (tel. 416/920-7347).

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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