Il Forno — Restaurant in Vaughan

Would have given 0 stars

Came here yesterday for dinner.

First impression is the smell. There was a plug in air freshener that greets you at the entrance when you walk-in. Makes you wonder what odour they are disguising. First Red Flag--------, but we continued inside and were greeted at the door by a gentleman dressed in a black chef's jacket. We are told to sit anywhere we want, Second Red Flag--------, the entire restaurant is "empty". Okay, it's early around 5:45pm. We continue and are then greeted by a waiter who offers us menus. She returns with a pitcher of water. The menu is promising! And although the items are well described, it makes you think this restaurant has authentic offerings.

Sadly, no. The pizza was worse than a frozen pizza from the local drug store. It was absolutely the worst pizza I've had in my entire life. (This was reiterated by an earlier poster, wish I had read it!!) The menu states: "R O M A N S T Y L E S Q U A R E P I Z Z A NAPOLITAN FLOUR BELND DOUGH AGED 24 HOURS AND BAKED ON TRAYS FOR A ROMAN STYLE SQUARE FINISH" $16.00

What you actually get is a 10x10 flat premade dough that is barely crispy or with a flour blend. It was something you serve at a hospital cafeteria or prison food. It was slapped with basic tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese maybe 4 grape tomatoes sliced after it was barely warmed in the oven then drizzled with watered down store bought pesto sauce. Served luke warm. Wish I took a photo but was disgusted by it's sight. I don't know how the so called Chef could be proud of this? It was sad.

The other meals were meh. We were not happy with the quality that we paid $$$------- Third Red Flag!

I'm sorry but the website has stated: "Welcome to Il Forno, where culinary expertise meets passion on every plate. With a celebrated chef with 25 years of experience at the helm, our restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience." Sadly, it didn't hit the mark. We were hopeful and just didn't deliver. "It definitely delivered an unforgettable dining experience". I think there is room to grow and do better.

The waiter was excellent., but then again she didn't cook the food.

Packed the food so she wouldn't feel badly. It went straight into the compost. I don't recommend this restaurant and I am convinced the early reviews are fake reviews written to boost the Google ratings. You can see how the photos are on a white marble table featured in the menu.

I had hopes but sadly disappointed.

Oh forgot to add, another couple had walked in (10 mins after we arrived) and they immediately left. I think we should have followed suit...

May 2025 – While passing through Toronto, I decided to revisit the restaurant once more. This time, I requested a custom dish — the Tomahawk Steak. The chef graciously accepted and prepared it to perfection. The steak was exceptionally juicy and tender — truly one of the best I’ve ever had. Many thanks!

2024- Traveling from the U.S.A., I recently had the pleasure of dining at iL Forno in Woodbridge, ON, Canada, and it has quickly become one of my favorite Italian restaurants. During my visits, I tried the Mediterranean pizza, chicken fricassee, grilled rib eye, and salmon fillet. Each dish was exceptionally delicious, with generous portions that left me more than satisfied.

The Mediterranean pizza had a perfect blend of flavors, with a crisp crust and fresh toppings. The chicken fricassee was tender and savory, while the grilled rib eye was juicy and flavorful. The salmon fillet was another highlight, perfectly grilled with delightful seasoning. The presentation of the food was also excellent, adding to the meal's enjoyment.

Not only was the food amazing, but the service was outstanding. The staff were attentive and friendly, making each visit a pleasant experience. The restaurant's ambiance created a warm and inviting atmosphere.

I was so impressed by the authentic taste of the food and the overall experience that I have returned to iL Forno multiple times. It truly stands out as one of the best Italian restaurants I have ever tried, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable...

This place is a hidden gem! Don't let its location in an industrial business area fool you, the food, wine and service is excellent. Even though they're only 7 months old, they've got strong service and food. To start, we had: meatballs and garlic toast (saucy and delicious on the toast) garlic shrimp and garlic toast (garlicky and served with a fresh salad that brought good balance to the savouriness)

For mains: Casareccia (mushroom and chicken pasta in a cream sauce, savoury and light) Il Forno roasted chicken (great sauce and flavour with garlic mash) Roasted rack of lamb (cooked medium perfectly with excellent sides) Linguine pescatore (a massive portion of perfectly cooked pasta and seafood - definitely enough for two meals)

With the pear and gorgonzola salad on the side, and tiramisu and chocolate mousse for dessert.

The reviews may surprise you, especially given the well-lit photos, but with great wine, plating and lighting this place is really good -...