What’s the vibe

Victor Restaurant is located within Le Germain Hotel, a long-standing boutique property set in the Entertainment District. On the heels of an extensive renovation of the hotel’s guest rooms, Victor has recently completed an overhaul of its own design. The open-concept space, which draws inspiration from classic American brasseries, includes a cozy bar-lounge area and a relaxed cafe.

The main draw is the central dining area which is dominated by a dramatic hanging light fixture, below which teal blue banquettes pop subtly against a colour palette of chocolate, white and deep grey. Wooden shelves lined with framed artwork, hardback books and decorative plates stretch along one wall. The overall effect is elegant yet homey. While the restaurant’s setting makes it a natural choice for Le Germain Hotel guests, it aims to become a go-to spot for locals as well.

What to drink

The wine menu is a highlight of Victor’s drink offerings, featuring an extensive selection of local and international wines. Its spirit selection is equally impressive and there are also a handful of beers available on tap and by the bottle. The brief cocktail list includes some seasonal sippers, such as the Adam’s Apple, which will be debuting in early November for winter. This warm mix of apple cider, Buffalo Trace bourbon, Amaro Nonino, ginger beer, orange juice and Angostura bitters is the perfect antidote to chilly evenings.

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What to eat

Hotel restaurants tend to get a bad rap, but don’t let this dissuade you from giving Victor’s bistro-style menu a chance. In keeping with the restaurant’s intimate atmosphere, the menu is built around approachable dishes that can be shared family-style.

We sampled the Christmas menu during our visit, a full holiday dinner complete with juicy roasted turkey, Brussels sprouts topped with crispy bacon and a house-made cranberry sauce based on chef Lanny McLeod’s own family recipe. It’s sure to be a hit with travellers missing the familiar comforts of holiday family feasts.

Victor’s everyday menu focuses on well-prepared meat mains, anchored by dishes like the 32 oz Tomahawk Steak, which serves two people. Victor has a dedicated pastry chef on staff, so it’s definitely worth saving room for dessert.

Dinner and drinks for two: around $120

30 Mercer St., 416-883-3431; victorrestaurant.com