Alebrije — Restaurant in Toronto

Alebrije, Chef Ryan's new venture, and prepare to be delighted not only by the exquisite food but by the restaurant's contemporary and vibrant atmosphere. The space is instantly striking, balancing sleek design like the impressive floor to ceiling wine cooler with touches of whimsy, particularly the gorgeous folk art sculptures of Fantastical Creatures scattered throughout. Keep an eye out for the unique logo, a charming winged raccoon, which I believe is a delightful nod to Toronto.

My dining experience was an absolute pleasure, starting with a must try appetizer: the guacamole made with fermented tomatoes and sea buckthorn. This is not your average guac! The creamy richness of the avocado was perfectly complemented by a bright, sour profile from the sea buckthorn, while the sumac added a fantastic, earthy depth. The complex and harmonious blend of flavours immediately signalled that this kitchen is playing at a high level. (8/10)

For the main course, I savoured the pollo asado. The chicken was cooked perfectly, remaining incredibly juicy, and was paired with a well-balanced salsa that enhanced the meat without overpowering it. A great suggestion from my attentive waiter, Diego, was to use the accompanying tortillas to build my own tacos a fun and delicious way to enjoy the dish. Just be warned: the portion size is quite generous and easily satisfying for one! (8/10)

To conclude, the chocolate ganache cake was a triumph. Rich, decadent, and utterly delicious, it offered a sophisticated twist with a subtle hint of hot pepper. It truly tasted like a gourmet take on Mexican dark hot chocolate—the perfect way to end the meal with a warm, spiced kick. (9/10)

Overall, my experience at Alebrije was fantastic. From the innovative starters to the deeply satisfying main and the memorable dessert, the food is executed with skill and flair. Paired with the imaginative atmosphere and attentive service (thanks, Diego!), Alebrije is a must visit destination. I would absolutely recommend it and look forward to my next...

Alebrije: Where Contemporary Mexican Cuisine Meets Warm Hospitality

From the moment you step into Alebrije, you’re greeted by an atmosphere that feels both vibrant and refined. The décor is a thoughtful blend of contemporary design and cultural touches, creating a space that’s as visually appealing as it is inviting. It sets the stage for what turns out to be an exceptional dining experience.

The menu is a celebration of flavour. Every dish we tried was a testament to the kitchen’s creativity: bold, balanced, and beautifully presented. From starters to mains, each plate delivered layers of taste that kept us talking long after the first bite. It’s clear that Alebrije isn’t just serving food; it’s crafting an experience.

What truly elevated the evening, however, was the personal connection. Josh, the General Manager, stopped by our table and spent time sharing his passion for wine. His knowledge and enthusiasm were infectious, and his willingness to engage made us feel like valued guests rather than just diners. It’s rare to find that level of genuine hospitality, and it left a lasting impression.

Alebrije is more than a restaurant—it’s a destination for those who appreciate exceptional cuisine and authentic human connection. We left feeling delighted and already planning...

As a Mexican with considerable knowledge of Mexican cuisine, I'm sorry to say that this was an insult. One thing is trying to reinvent, and another is being able to reinvent. Not tasty, with a bad re-invention of typical Mexican dishes, and then, my dismay at the poor "reinvention" of Spanish/Mexican words, such as "fundito" instead of "fundido". I understand what they intended to do, but it was not well executed, or at least not well understood by people who are unfamiliar with Mexican food. I won't be an a... and leave this review forever, I will leave it three days to express my discontent at the blasphemy, yet, I am not bitter as my intention is not to hurt your business, as I am sure some people may enjoy the unenjoyable out of ignorance. I have to accept that the cocktails were original and...