Il Ponte Cucina Italiana in Toronto

625 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1G7, Canada

★★★★☆
(433 reviews)
Categories: Italian restaurant Restaurant

About

Family-run Italian restaurant in Toronto with a warm vibe offering gourmet pizza, Italian entrees & outdoor seating. Open for take-out and free delivery within 5km.

Website
ilponte.ca
Address
625 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1G7, Canada
Plus Code
MJ5W+5Q Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Time Zone
America/Toronto

Business Hours

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
11:30 AM–9 PM
Wednesday
11:30 AM–9 PM
Thursday
11:30 AM–9 PM
Friday
11:30 AM–10 PM
Saturday
5–10 PM
Sunday
Closed

Services

Service options
Outdoor seating Kerbside pickup Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Happy-hour food Healthy options Private dining room Small plates Spirits Vegan options Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Catering Dessert Seating
Amenities
Bar on site Gender-neutral toilets Toilets Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Cosy Romantic Upmarket
Crowd
Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Has changing table(s) High chairs
Parking
Paid street parking

Photos

Reviews

4.4
★★★★☆
433 reviews

Most Mentioned

patio (22) calamari (20) food and service (17) party (14) dining (11) feel (9) gluten free (7) glass (7) chop (6) lamb (5)
5 stars
301
4 stars
72
3 stars
27
2 stars
18
1 stars
15
★★★★★
December 15, 2024

I had the pleasure of dining at Il Ponte Cucina Italiana last night, and I can’t even begin to express how incredible the experience was. From start to finish, everything was great. The food? Beyond amazing. Every dish was bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors—clearly crafted with love and top-quality ingredients. Their specials were particularly standout, and I highly recommend asking about them when you visit. The service was equally impressive. The staff was warm, attentive, and made us feel completely at home. To top it off, we even had the chance to meet the owner, who was so welcoming and passionate about his restaurant. It’s rare to see someone so hands-on and genuinely invested in their guests’ experience. If you’re looking for authentic Italian cuisine with impeccable service, this is the place. I already can’t wait to go back!

★★★★★
September 26, 2024

Fantastic restaurant. Giancarlo was very passionate about his food and took amazing care of us. Took the time to carefully explain all the dishes and was happy to modify any dish to your liking. The food was fantastic, the atmosphere so inviting, I would recommend this place to anyone. I only wish it was closer to us in Richmond Hill!!

★★★★★
February 23, 2024

From start to finish we had a great experience. I had to come right at opening because we had a show to go to after dinner, and they made sure we had everything quickly and with tons of time to spare. The owner was so sweet and made us feel welcome. The food was also fantastic! I didn’t get a photo of the calamari but my husband said it was the best calamari he’s ever had. Would totally go back!!

★★★★
September 18, 2023

I thought the food was good! We ordered the capricciosa pizza and the gnocchi. The gnocchi wasn’t anything amazing. I did like how they portioned it out, knowing we were splitting it. I liked the thin crust pizza! I also liked the house made chilli oil, that was delicious! The atmosphere was bright and comfy. If you’re looking for some Italian, this place is a good place to go! I just didn’t find it anything super special :)

★★★
February 14, 2023

We live in the area and figured we’d give this local spot a try for valentines. There was a misunderstanding in the beginning around the menu and the owner was very kind in accommodating us. He also made great suggestions for us from the wine menu! Unfortunately, service outside our interactions with the owner was sloppy. Our appetizers were given to (& subsequently eaten by) a table that was seated 20 minutes after us, and the same mistake was about to be made for our mains if it wasn’t for a different table turning away the food. When the food did arrive it was lovely (tho on the pricier side). We ordered the scallops and insalata invernale for apps and the gnocchi and truffle spaghetti for the mains. It was clear our server wasn’t keen on small talk or cracking much of a smile, but the owner’s kind demeanour in between plates made up for it. This spot would easily be a 4 w/ improved table service.

★★★★
December 15, 2022

Great food, with exceptional pizzas. The Americano is great and highly recommended. The atmosphere is simplistic but nice and pleasant. A great spot for lunch or if craving a very decent Italian meal in the area. Get a glass of white with the mussels and enjoy!

★★★★★
November 13, 2020

Amazing restaurant! Everything we had was delicious. So many great choices, it was hard to pick, but we had the octopus, the branzino and the short rib ravioli and I highly recommend all of it! Service was excellent. Our server was very accommodating, patient, knowledgeable and super helpful with menu questions. By the time I remembered to take pictures the food was half eaten, so I took some of the dessert which was also delicious! Oh and wine bottles were half price! Also worth noting, their patio is heated and well adapted to current situation and up to code, and they take strict precautions to prevent the spread, which I always check before going anywhere.

★★★★★
March 10, 2019

il Ponte is a Riverdale gem! Attended a private lunch function to celebrate a milestone birthday. The food, service and ambience were all exceptional. The restaurateur was very engaged and the servers were extremely attentive to the large group's needs. Overall, a fabulous eating experience. Highly recommend.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2024

Dont usually compare but if youve ever been to NYC Little Italy...Il Ponte will be a new favourite.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2024

Would give this a 6 if I could. Never disappointing. Great services and amazing food. Made my wifes surprise birthday celebration extra special. Listen closely to the specials. They are usually great choices

★★★★
November 23, 2024

On a quiet night we had very attentive service,especially with our youngsters. All the food was fresh, house made, and delicious. Recommend.

★★★★
November 23, 2024

Food was good, service was good and atmosphere was good. Not my top choice but good.

★★
October 23, 2024

I used to love this place but today was a total miss.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 23, 2024

Great food with an amazing atmosphere.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 23, 2024

Gorgeous restaurant with amazing views of the Toronto skyline. The food is equally amazing! Great wine selection too and the owner personally ensures all guests are well cared for!

★★★★★
July 23, 2024

Overall amazing performance

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Great family restaurant with unbelievable specials and great food. It is our go to place!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

Enjoyed a magnificent meal before a show at the opera house. Staff were attentive and engaging. Food was delicious and expertly prepared. Location is great, with a wonderful atmosphere.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

The most amazing Gluten Free pasta you can imagine. I am also lactose tolerant and yet still has so many delicious Italian options.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

This time last year my wife and I were married at Il Ponte. Giancarlo and his staff are all superstars, they were professional and accommodating. They made it feel like a family affair. Weve also eaten there a couple times outside of our wedding and the same warm inviting energy was present each time. Highly recommend for celebrations both big and small. Or maybe youre just looking for some top tier Italian food. Thank you Il Ponte team!

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

This place is amazing. We had a party of 6, 2 of which were late but the staff was super friendly and accommodating. We had a 13 year old with us and they were great with her and said she could have whatever she wanted even if it wasnt on the menu!!! Food was absolutely to die for. Incredible. Would recommend to everyone.. check this place out I feel like it doesnt get the credit it deserves!!

★★★★
May 23, 2024

Always tasty and consistently good. On my third visit to Il Ponte, the meal was again very good. Fresh calamari fritti with a delicate mustard, terrific grilled mushroom chosen for contrasting textures, and great mains. My Ontario lamb chops were perfectly grilled, the frites were deliciously seasoned, and the baby asparagus was done perfectly - tender but with good body and very flavourful. Don t forget to try the house tiramisu - among the best in Toronto. Highly recommended.

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 23, 2024

Amazing food , great service and place.

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

My best friend and I found this place by fluke and we are so glad we did. If you re looking for authentic Italian food this is the place for you! Vegetarian options: There were a couple vegetarian pastas and there was a cheese pizza

★★★★★
March 23, 2024

Great night out. Kudos all around! Pleasant atmosphere, great food and attentiveness to service without being intrusive. Highly recommended Food : 5/5

★★★★★
March 23, 2024

This is our go to for special occasions. Everyone we have taken loved it. From the service to the food to dessert! One of our favorites!

★★★★
Local Guide
February 23, 2024

Great Italian restaurant. A nice place to share a bite to eat with friend and colleagues

February 23, 2024

Came for Valentine s Day, for 2 people it was close to $300. It took forever to get our food and the portions were small

★★
Local Guide
February 23, 2024

The valentines menu was disappointing. The portions were so small, we left the place still hungry. Not worth the money they charged. Not to mention the delayed service; we waited what felt like an hour between the tiny appetizers and the tiny main, followed by weird tasting tiny dessert. I want to love this place but this experience does not inspire me to go back ever again.

★★
February 23, 2024

Came here for the valentines menu and was close to my worst experience ever. They charged us a lot per person and the portions were ridiculously small. We wait time was even worse. We noticed people leaving mid-menu. Not ideal. Id still give it a try since on a normal day, seems the pizzas are good.

★★★★★
January 23, 2024

Love this gem. I m all about the food and they don t disappoint. I like the ambiance too and the fact you can actually talk to your friends without loud music or hustle and bustle of some restaurants. Vegetarian options: Excellent accommodations for all diets.

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Cute place. A bit overpriced for the quality of the food but the service was good. Nothing special, but a good local spot for wine and pasta.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

The staff and ambiance is great. The food is always delicious true Italian style. I recommend all my friends and family to Il ponte.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Pass this place all the time and decided to give it a try for dinner. The food was delicious! We had two soups, the short rib pasta, bolognese and the gnocchi. All were fantastic. Although a little pricey, the flavours were fresh. Would highly recommend.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The service was phenomal. The owner suggesested us a top dishes outside the menu and he really got it right. Food was delicious - a piece of Italy in Queen East !

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

The best meal ever. From the appetizers of fried calamari to the amazing pastas to the Creme Brule which was the best we ever tasted. The service was great. Will certainly be back!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Love to have lunch here; their wine carte is amazing, and the food is great.

★★
December 23, 2023

Disappointed! I really wanted to like this place as the restaurant is in the neighborhood and the menu looked promising. Sad to report that the food was flavourless. We left most of it on our plate as we moved from one course to the next Everything from the cocktails, apps all the way through dessert was basic. We left hungry and ripped off. The service was okay, We had to ask for drinks and condiments a couple of times before we got them as our sever forgot about our order. Also surprised our server didnt ask us how our meal was or notice that most of our food was left untouched on our plate and we declined to have any of it packed.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Delicious, generous portion sizes, friendly attentive staff Would recommend!

December 23, 2023

We came in a bit before they were closing and felt horrible as they mentioned the restaurant was about to close in 30 mins, the waitress was rude and so was the manager present. There was no politeness. I have worked in the restaurant industry & we are always taught that customers are our guests! And even if they come in few minutes before closing, we need to take them in, nicely. I felt bad and wanted to leave as soon as I finished my food.

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The food is OK. Its not bad but I have eaten better Italian food in the town, cant say its the greatest. The ambience is nice. But this place is too costly.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Our favourite company lunch spot especially on Friday. The best and most authentic Italian restaurant in town. The pasta special never disappoints.

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The service can be said to be quite explosive. Not to mention that every waiter owes them money as much as I do. I asked for bread from the beginning, but no one brought it to me until the end. My water was spilled halfway through, and no one came. Instead, the waiter finally asked me about it. And when I didnt finish my meal, the waiter gave me the bill directly because she thought I had finished my meal. But there were only two tables of customers and two waiters. I couldnt understand where they had gone. All in all, I spent 50 yuan just to be wronged here. Based on the fact that the waiter was willing to give me a glass of water and take away the remaining food I was forced to take away, I gave 5%. Clothes

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This is really good Italian food! Excellent pizza and pasta in a beautiful restaurant. The patio is perfect to sit and have wine with friends. Highly recommend!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Owner & food were fantastic - if you like Italian, this is your place to go.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Dropped in this week for lunch - Wow! Just an amazing meal - Great host - great atmosphere - I dont get to go as often as I use too since retirement (live 2hrs away!) - But when I do - Its a memorable time. Just great food! served the right way!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Awsome as always

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

One of my all time faves in the city - this hidden gem oozes decadence, amazing conversation with the team and a beautiful selection of wines to compliment theyre delish menu.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

New to the neighbourhood. Friday night vibes here are amazing! Great wine. Amazing staff. Unforgettable food. Definitely the place to regular.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Amazing restaurant! I highly recommend it to everyone who likes amazing food!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This place is amazing. Giancarlo serves us delicious lunch quite often as we work nearby. He remembers his customers and makes everyone feel important, seen, and heard. He s very accommodating with the menu and customizing dishes for dietary restrictions or special requests. They are always introducing new pizzas and pasta dishes as special menu items and they re always absolutely delicious. 10/10, support an incredible local business. If you don t live close, it s worth the trip.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The Owner explained all the dishes on the menu, including all the gluten-free options. Just tell them to make you what is fresh in that day

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Pasta and service always phenomenal

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Great food. I love occasional Italian food. Since I live close by, I gave it a try. I think I m going back again.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Really neat place, friendly people and beautiful inside. Tough to find parking - there is a green P about a block and half away

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Best Italian meal by far. We have dined at several Italian restaurants in the GTA and no others compare. Giancarlo and his staff are great. The food was outstanding! Gnocchi special was very cheesy and the Filaj Calabresi was very flavorful. Do not overlook this place!!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

I have tried a variety of restaurants that will substitute gluten-free pasta for me and usually the kind that falls apart on the fork. Il Ponte served up this amazing pasta with their carbonara that had the taste and spring of real pasta with no shredding! We had a lovely time chatting with the chef and the servers. The food was very good, the service was friendly and attentive with an overall truly pleasant night out. I highly recommend Il Ponte and plan to eat there again!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Great place we had our friends 50th birthday party there last night. the food is fantastic the best calamari in the city by far staff is amazing the atmosphere awesome and of course Giancarlo hes awesome and makes sure everything is perfect. I highly suggest if you never been there you have no idea what your missing. oh and also I never write google review but this deserves to be rated

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

My new fave.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

This has to be one of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto totally enjoyable experience, great staff awesome food I highly recommend it Parking: Green p broad view and queen 5 min walk

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Il Ponte is wonderful. Giancarlo and his team are so welcoming, they treat you like family. The food is delicious + authentic Italian, and the space is clean with a friendly atmosphere. Been here many times and will continue to!

★★★
December 23, 2023

Went for a friends birthday with a group of 21. Food was underwhelming, as was the service. Staff couldnt figure out how to separate the bill for a $75 prix fixe menu(literally just had to keep track of peoples drinks). My friend had to sort out what everyone owed himself. Then the machine went down. I would not go back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Vegetarian options: Flexible and happy to put something together for a vegan. Food

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Friends catered a holiday party dinner from here - food is delicious. Penne alla vodka not to be missed. Tiramisu a must have as well!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

What a wonderful place! The food was delicious, the staff were very friendly, and service was wonderful. Well definitely be back

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

With a great recommendation from our friend who s had great experience at Il Ponte Cucina in the past month, we went and had an equally great time. Starting with 2 salads to share, the portion size easily fed 3. Flavours were fresh and presentations perfect. For mains, we all went with our servers recommendations for the specials of the evening. Portion s and flavours were perfect. Pricing is on point with the location & food quality. Service was polite and fun I believe we had the owner assisting us ands his jovial nature stood out. Restaurant had a good noise level for being 1/2 full on a Tuesday night. Clean, well illuminated sand non gendered lavatories and all notable touches.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Absolutely incredible southern Italian cuisine!! A taste of Calabria. Giancarlo & Mario were fantastic to deal with. I appreciate the ROGER amaro!! I 100% recommend it to everyone. A perfect gem. Food : 5/5

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great food, great staff, great ambience and great prices.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Delicious! We tried items from all parts of the menu and it was fresh and delicious. We enjoyed a variety of plates family style so we could share. The chickpea flour calamari was perfect. The veal, beef and red snapper were perfect. I highly recommend il Ponte. We ve been driving by for a while and so glad we finally went in. Will be going back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

If you want great authentic Italian food with great service and ambiance in east Toronto then this is the spot for you. Giancarlo and his staff provided a awesome culinary experience that leave me looking forward to my return to this establishment! A meal very very well done!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Have been there twice with friends beautiful people beautiful food servers amazing one of the few restaurants that I really enjoy going I live in Oshawa and the trip is worth it thank you everybody acting

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

My daughters shared the margarita pizza and I had a glass of Pinot Grigio, caeser salad and the pesto gnocchi. All of it was delicious. The atmosphere is super fun with trendy and unique decor.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Best pasta I ve ever had in my life. Amazing service. Worth the price. Would recommend to anyone.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Accomodating and attentive staff. My friend and I were late for our reservation but the Chef was able to provide us a table in the patio. Although we were the only young guests, the staff did not make us feel less important and appreciated. Tasty weekend specials!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Can t pick one favourite everything amazing!! Food, service and atmosphere amazing. 5 star!!!

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

At Il Ponte you can expect fresh made soups and salads, gourmet pizza and pasta, fresh fish and seafood dishes and local house butchered meats. Good wines will always be carefully selected to pair with our delicious food. Come join us for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday and become part of a brand new tradition in a historic neighbourhood, the lower east side. Dont order the pizza if youve eaten at the Italian one.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Amazing patio with a street side view, great for kids! We brought our almost 2 year old and they were very accommodating. Pizza was fantastic, barely had any leftovers left. Highly recommend, especially if youre strolling through Corktown.

★★★
December 23, 2022

The food was decent, not great. Service was inattentive. Wouldn t recommend highly.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Hi and Good Day to all Staff!! I did a stage and all I can say is that the food was great-Owner was nice, Cooks very experienced, servers were and are polite, the Dishwasher was interesting and had great ideas. I enjoyed the stage but I also can say that the ambiance is what drew me to apply. Fine Italian cuisine at its best-Thanks to the owner!!.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

The tiramisu

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

We had a lovely meal on the excellent patio here and look forward to going back again soon.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

I have been wanting to try this place for a while, and living Downtown I rarely come to the East Side. Well, I finally went and absolutely loved it. The restaurant had many specials on that evening, we started with the Mussels, and ate even the sauce. For the main I opted for the Rabbit Ragu with Fresh Gnocci - HOLY MOLY GOOD. My wife had the Chilean Sea Bass, it was ok - though tad overpriced for what you get. Taste of the bass was not that adventurous, and on a bed of green beans not very filling. Now the service! Absolutely incredible service from the moment we arrived until the end. The owner and host himself came to the table and explained the entire menu to us, as if he had a photographic memory. The waiters were incredible and attended our every need. A well-oiled machine that truly gave me NYC Lower East Side vibes. Highly recommend, and easily top 10 Italian in Toronto. Until next time, Ciao!

Local Guide
December 23, 2022

embarrassingly bad food, service that alternated between bad and non-existent, and higher than average prices all add up to a don t go there ever again experience

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Far better than I expected. Service and food were excellent. Wine selection was very good as was the ambiance. Prices are fair for the food but can add up quickly. I will go there again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Very delicious and authentic Italian fine dining. We were very well serviced by the owner for our large group lunch on the patio. I had the wild boar sausage pasta with mushrooms and it was a very large and filling portion. The aperol spritz cocktail reminds me of my days in Trastevere. Also, the tiramisu dessert is to die for. It is large enough to share with two! The location is a bit loud as it is right off of Queen and next to the DVP, but sitting inside is always an option. Overall, the restaurant is very clean and comfortable from the moment you step inside.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

The best Tiramisu I have ever had. Also, amazing fresh soup. The Gnocchi is the most popular. All dishes are above average. The service is wonderful and the atmosphere is casual chic. Highly recommended.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Had a dover sole and mussels which were very fresh and perfectly prepared. Friendly service, a comfortable patio and a short ride from downtown. Worth the trip.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

I booked a group of 35 people at Il Ponte. I cant say enough great things about this restaurant! The food is beyond delicious. I could swear my eyes were rolling back in my head when I ate the sea bass. And the tiramisu melted in my mouth. Yum! Plus the staff are fantastic and Giancarlo really knows how to take care of his customers. This place is great for groups and for a romantic dinner for two. I highly recommend it! I will be back! Vegetarian options: Gluten free pasta options provided.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Nice wine.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

The staff were extremely professional the ambiance setting was very comfortable. The food was excellent highly recommended for a family outing or business function

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Best, most authentic Italian food in the city. Absolute must try. Family owned and operated, great food and great people.

★★
December 23, 2021

It okay

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Always a great experience! Giancarlo is excellent! The service is always kind and accommodating not to mention how delicious the food is! Theres a lovely heated patio here as well. Highly recommend!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Food was tasty, good Italian food.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Atmosphere was nice. Staff was great!! Enjoyed one of the dishes but did not live the other one but that is personal preference

December 23, 2021

Unfortunately, the wagyu beef slider had no flavour and the veal scallopini was also a disappointment. We will not be returning

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Went for dinner here last night and I wish I could give it more than 5 stars. All the staff were so nice and really accommodating, the food and wine were amazing as well

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Great service, and food was good but not exceptional. Tiramisu was really good.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Excellent food & service. Thank you John

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Delicious!

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

I had the pleasure of attending a party that was catered by Il Ponte. My only regret is that I didnt take some leftovers home with me! The food was delicious and plentiful. The owner, who catered the event, was professional and friendly. I look forward to visiting the restaurant.

December 23, 2021

I have had spotty experiences here but today took the cake. Ordered a Caprese salad with vine-ripened tomatoes at the height of summer and it came with pale orange, hard, underripe, ice-cold and clearly refrigerated, possibly California greenhouse tomato. The salad was also under-dressed; I think just olive oil and nothing else. When I complained, the waiter blamed the kitchen staff and told us hes asked them before not to serve under-ripe tomatoes, but didnt offer to take it back or to comp us. A $17 salad that was barely eaten and he cheerfully took our plates away without a word. That is bad restaurateur-ing. We also waited 45 minutes for water on a hot summers day. Will not return.

★★
December 23, 2021

While on vacation in Toronto we found this lovely restaurant on our last day, the food was spectacular and delicious. The restaurant itself was beautiful and clean with a lovely patio out the side. Unfortunately we made the mistake of showing up at the restaurant too early. We checked online first and saw that the restaurant was open for lunch at 11:30. We got to the restaurant at 11:55, to which they told us that the restaurant was actually opening for lunch at 12:15 (this had been the second restaurant we had walked too that wasnt opened when it said it was supposed to open for lunch). It had been very hot this day and we had walked quite a distance to get to the restaurant, I was struggling a lot to even make it to the restaurant due to how hot I was. Due to this the server decided to accommodate us and let sit down in the restaurant for 20 min before the restaurant actually opened up for service (we fully did not expect to be severed, we literally just needed the air conditioning). This wasnt an issue until the owner came over to our table and told us that due to the pandemic he wasnt opening up the restaurant until 12:15 and now that we are sitting here it makes him look bad for not opening up to other people. We apologized for causing so much trouble, to which the owner told us it wasnt our fault but he sure didnt make us feel like it wasnt our fault. He came up to us several times after to show us the people waiting outside, telling us that it makes him look bad that we are sitting in here. When we complemented him on the restaurant and the food he didnt look at us or say anything to us. We could hear him yelling at the server that let us in (we later apologized to the server for getting them in trouble, we felt awful...). But not only was he yelling at the server that let us in, he was also yelling at other staff in the back throughout our lunch for reasons unknown. It was one of the most awkward dinning experiences we have ever had, as we were made to feel guilty the whole time by the owner. Sadly this was our last experience in Toronto before the long drive home. Make no mistake we greatly appreciate the restaurant staff and owner for accommodating us and letting us sit inside we just did not appreciate the rude comments and attitude from the owner the whole time after.

Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Felt like the staff went out of their way to insult us and they succeeded. Started off well enough. Waiter (owner?) came by and greeted us, listed off the specials and took our order. My friend ordered a glass a of wine and I had water. We placed our orders for calamari, risotto and a pasta special. Calamari arrived shockingly fast and was obviously not made to order. We were hungry so ate it anyway; not inedible. Our waters were refilled at this point. Food was brought out by someone other than our waiter. She had the saddest affect Ive seen in a long time and did not make eye contact or engage in any way. We were offered pepper and cheese and that was the end of that interaction. A few minutes later another one of the waiters/owners walked past and asked if anyone offered us pepper or cheese. I stress walked past as he did not actually stop at our table to ask us. We start to eat our meals which are not amazing, just OK. For the price youd expect much better but I digress. Neither one of us particularly enjoyed it as was evident by the full plates of food in front of us for over 40 minutes. At no point did anyone come to our table to ask how we were doing or enjoying our meals. This was especially perplexing given the fact that one of waiters/owners had his back to us for the majority of our time there speaking to friends at the adjacent table. After an agonizing hour of being willfully ignored some poor girl came and took our plates. Didnt ask how we found our meals or give any overture. Simply told us our waiter would come with the bill. Waiter/owner who had his back to us the entire time comes by with the bill. Does not greet us, does not ask about our experience, says and does nothing other than hand me the machine. Guilt got the better of me and I tipped 10% but truly wish I had not tipped anything. In fact, I wish I could take back that entire experience and just walked out of there. He wished us a good night as we walked out the door and that was that. We left wondering what we could have possibly done to deserve such treatment (or lack of). Because we didnt both order wine? Because we didnt both splash out $40 on a special bowl of pasta? Did they simply just not like the look of us? We dont know but we left feeling extremely angry and disrespected and disappointed. The joys of dining out are derived from the ambiance of the restaurant and the air on conviviality from the wait staff and owners. This matters just as much, if not more so, than the food itself. Unfortunately this place missed the mark on all aspects this evening. So sad that what was once an enjoyable neighborhood place has become this.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

We had dinner at il Ponte last night. We had the calamari fritti to start and the gemelli alla grecia and the lamb chop special for our mains. We weren t blown away by the calamari but really liked our main courses. They were cooked well and used good ingredients. The service was also great and prompt. The patio was nice and makes you forget you re on a main street. Would recommend for a nice quiet Italian meal if you re in the area.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

This place has a variety of different options and is good value for money

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Excellent Italian cuisine, good fish, seafood and wine

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

If youre looking for a culinary taste explosion, fabulous presentation and incredibly informative and helpful staff, Il Ponte is your new home. We drove an hour to get here and it was worth every bit of time. Completely enjoyable, great atmosphere, wonderful food, so much more could be said, but try it, your taste buds will thank you!

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Very good service and nice tiramisu. Thats about it. Wine selection is poor. Pasta were not enough cooked and were swimming in 1cm of olive oil. I mean. Literally (see picture). Im passing on the soulless deco and the ridiculous italian background music. Not enough to make it a good italian restaurant.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Great little Italian restaurant with a European feel to it. Be patient, you may have to enjoy your wine and talk to your dinner date, but the food was worth it. Fresh and cooked to perfection. The halibut was probably the most perfectly cooked halibut I ve tasted in the city. The pasta was also delicious. You want something a little different than on the menu, ask and they are likely to accommodate.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Freshly made food good service and priced well.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Gr8 Ambience Food and Service

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Group event. Food and service just right. Staff made you feel like you were family and your happiness was important to them. THANK YOU tony

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

We were two for dinner mid-week and both had a salad plus veal scallopine. Perfectly grilled, just pink which is incredibly difficult with thinly-sliced cuts. Perhaps a peppercorn sauce would have been a nice option but purists will love the unadorned style plus veggies. Chianti was lovely but top-up glass was not as ordered. Superb, family-friendly atmosphere for early birds. Great service generally. Thanks, Frank. A little noisy- come early if you have an important conversation in mind. Recommended.

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

Excellent service, great wines and superb dishes.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Italian | Closed Sunday | Break 14:30-17:00 | Street parking This warm but modern Italian restaurant is full of wonders! The servers are welcoming and knowledgeable. I was even served by the owner himself. Their professionalism and knowledge on not just the ingredients of their dishes but also the way each is cooked is fantastic. The restaurant itself is nearly designed and clean. They offer unisex bathrooms which are also clean and nice. My partner booked the reservation off Open Table noting that it was our anniversary and upon arriving, the host and the server knew and definitely made us feel special. We were even offered 2 glasses of complimentary sparkling wine. So sweet of them! The server (who is also the owner) explained the menu and specials with professionalism. We had bread and olives to snack on. Olives were fantastic. APP: Chestnut soup - great! Lobster tartare - very interesting! Served over warm sweet potato puree and topped with cold sorbet. If youre not good with fishy things though I dont suggest this. And must be a shared app, its quite filling! MAINS: Special - Seafood mixed grill - fantastic! The variety is nice! Special - Veal chop - delicious! So soft and moist! DESSERT: Tiramisu - Yummy! Coffee Panna cotta - So good especially for coffee lovers! Overall, Id definitely recommend and return! It was a wonderful experience!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Good, hearty, authentic Italian food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Excellent food and very friendly staff. I felt perfectly comfortable eating here with my infant in tow. They made space for my stroller and never once showed annoyance of it being there. Also, I thoroughly enjoyed my salmon dish! Great food. Great atmosphere. Great staff. Well done!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Terrific food, impeccable service and generally an attitude from staff (and owner!) that made us feel welcome, warm and comfortable. HIGHLY AND UNRESERVEDLY RECOMMENDED!!!!

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Great if you like fish. Service is way too slow.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Delicious food and great service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Delicious food and such friendly service!

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

Owner and staff went out of their way to make us feel comfortable and safe, adhering to social distancing and hygiene. Thank you.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Service was fantastic! Patio was beautiful, I felt secluded in a positive manner with their spacing. We had the seafood specials, pasta and seafood, the pasta was done perfectly and also had the pan seared halibut, cooked beautifully. Will be back for sure!

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

Best calamari in the city

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

We went for dinner in the patio last Friday. The patio tables are well distanced from one another. The service was great and the food awesome. The traffic on Queen E/DVP can be a bit loud at rush hour, but the food is well worth it. I really recommend it and will definitely be back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Had a great time on the patio. The food, the drinks and service top notch

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Excellent lamb chops

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Great service, patio and food. Definitely plan to go back.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

My dish was very mediocre taste wise. I guess when I ordered prawn and fettuccini I had it in my head that I was expecting at least a few prawns... but not being on the Westcoast where seafood is cheaper, I just got one which was disappointing for the price. The prawn itself was delicious the walnut pesto pasta was the disappointment. I had everyone at the table sample it, and nobody enjoyed it. Oh well, there are many choices in Toronto for Italian food. The owners were very proactive in reaching out, to know why the pasta failed for me, which is a great indication of an establishment that cares about their customers. Kudos to them for that. It is why I have bumped them to 4 star rating.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Excellent , knowledgable, service, fantastic food on a lovely patio.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Great patio with strong heaters. The service was great, food was well presented and delicious. Recommended for a nice quiet dinner.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Picking up pizzas from. Gian Carlo is worth it. The 2 pizzas and a bottle of wine deal is a steal!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Excellent food

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Good website

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Fantastic meals and wines. Not cheap, but worth treating yourself.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Delicious food and even better service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Great Italian restaurant with fabulous selection.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Pizza was fantastic. The pasta sadly was not up to what Id expect from an Italian restaurant. Still would return though and is a hidden gem in Toronto with a beautiful patio.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

It was OK. Like every other place I visited in Toronto the service sucked. The staff were not great at paying attention to customers and just did their own thing. The was very good though

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Delicious spot. Great food and service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Awesome experience with Giancarlo and Lupo! Many gluten free options

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Excellent food and ambience. Great service too.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Outstanding restaurant. Food is excellent. Top notch. I recommend it.

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

We ve been to Il Ponte many times over the last several years (too many times to count) and have never been disappointed with the quality & flavor of the food and the service we received. We have had several family functions (20+ ppl) at the restaurant and Giancarlo has always provide us with a great menu and service. Il Ponte is our go-to Italian restaurant for any occasion, whether its just dinner or its to celebrate a birthday or host a formal family event, Giancarlo will make you feel like youre family. btw they have the best calamari in the city!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Great service and great food. Calamari is an excellent start !

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

By far, one of my finest dining experiences. The flavours will resonate in my dreams! Such wonderful combinations that make for incredible dishes. Staff is welcoming, attentive, but not overbearing. Roomy and tastefully decorated, with a trendy vibe. Everything carefully selected- from the fresh ingredients and comfortable seating, to the lovely bud vases with fresh orchids, made for a highly enjoyable evening! Thanks and accolades to all!

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

Friendly and courteous staff coupled with great food and a lively ambience

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

New to the neighborhood, so always great to find a spot we enjoyed so much. Great good, friendly staff and the complimentary zucchini flower when we sat down was a real nice touch. We will be back!

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Un-welcomed. That s how my family and myself felt during our dinner. I was celebrating my 30th birthday that day and my god. I felt I was bothering the staff/owner. This is not something I ever want to feel again. I understand we all have bad days, but in the service industry you can t pay your frustrations with your clients. All in all, very disappointed. As far as the food goes, it was really good. The fish tasted very fresh, we really enjoyed that part. Would I go again? Probably not. Which such a competitive dinner market, I can probably find another place that makes me feel welcomed. Hope this feedback is taken and actioned on.

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

Great tasting Italian food try there freshly made soup.

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

A wonderful dinner & celebration of my birthday. Giancarlo had his chefs prepare a wonderful meal and we are foodies who have taken cooking courses around the world. Fish was perfectly prepared, just as good as a seafood spot in Ravello Italy.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Food was good but struggled with the service

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

Food is always on point. Everytime im in Toronto, I see Giancarlo for a 5 star dinner. See you in September! September 20....Thank you Mauro for your attentiveness and wonderful food throughout. Always a real treat eating here every time Im in Toronto. Delicious!! Say Hello to Giancarlo and Simona

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Been here multiple times for functions, and food was always on point, in tandem with wonderful service! You need to eat here.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Awesome food, great well informed staff. Professional and casual. Real italian cheese. Nuff said.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Delicious food. This place has a nice patio too if the night is right and your date looks good too

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

The owner is so genuine and you can tell he cares about the restaurant.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Lovely situated in Riverdale neighbourhood, classic Italian cuisine with friendly staff! Menus is well designed and no risk to order anything off the menus, because everything is well portion and great taste!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Italian cuisine at its finest.. great service and good wine selection.

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

A huge thank you to Giancarlo, Simona, and Mauro for an exceptional experience during our private event this past weekend. The food, drinks, service, and decor were all superb. Great attention to detail and an authentic Italian dining experience. Our guests loved it! Would recommend Il Ponte for a private function or a nice dinner out. Well be coming back soon for that Il Ponte pizza. Grazie mille.

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

Great ambiance, food was delicious and overall lovely evening. Lasagna special con sugo di cinghiale was absolutely delicious. Looking forward to returning soon!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Possibly the best Italian restaurant in Canada.

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

Wow!! All you guys in St. Lawrence Market downtown area have a fantastic dining opportunity just across the Queen Street Bridge. From downtown hop on the Queen or King car and get off immediately after crossing the bridge. ilponte is a white tablecloth experience just like you would experience in a real Italian restaurant in Tuscany. An extensive menu of outstanding dishes. ilponte is not your everyday downtown sports bar of a burger joint. The service is exceptional, and the food is prepared only like the Italians can do it. Please, do say hello to Giancarlo, your host for the evening. Main course with wine, dessert and tip; a couple will spend $150.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Beautiful place with great food and great service. Our group took over the whole restaurant and they did a great job of serving everything even with all of us eating at the same time. The chef even went over the menu and made sure there were vegetarian and gluten free options.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Great food, great service. Would happily return.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

I feel moved to write a review of Il Ponte, because as great as the food was (and it is wonderful), the service is excellent. Staff were attentive, patient, and extremely friendly to our large party, including 3 young kids. We couldnt have chosen a better spot for dinner.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Well, if you are looking for an intimate restaurant, with caring service, and a carefully selected wholesome menu, this is your place. Upon entering, youll notice a modern decor and smiling hostesses. Once seated, you see that the wine list is expansive, the cocktail list is broad, and the menu has options for any diet. I ordered the glass of Malbec, the tagliatelle, and opted to check-in to earn my dessert. The Malbec was a great choice my the restaurant and was full bodied yet tart. The tagliatelle was fresh and dressed well with the Bolognese sauce. I was delighted by the tiramisu awarded for check-in. The vibe of the restaurant is upscale casual. They have background music playing and can easily accommodate groups. Whether you are looking for a new date night spot or a place to have quality conversation with friends, I recommend this restaurant.

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

Excellent on every visit. Interesting menu and great flavors. Thank you John Carlo

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

Always great. If you dont see what you want on the menu, just ask and if they have the ingredients theywill make it.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Great food great wine and service. No parking

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Great food and supportive of vegetarian options as they offer customized choices. Nice ambiance and atmosphere!

★★★★★
December 23, 2019

Fantastic and consistent not to mention friendly people.