Church 416.537.1090 http://www.churchaperitivobar.com/ open Tues – Sat for dinner
The interior of this resto retains nothing from its previous occupants, a Queen West church, except for the exterior shell. Inside high ceilings, an elegant bar and a fully renovated basement add a certain charm to its marvelous transformation. Open for dinner but rarely is busy until late in the evening when it morphs into a lively bar. The menu is tapas and great for nibbling.
I stopped in initially for a few drinks, but when I took a look at the menu I had to order something. The cheese plate: a creamy blue gorgonzola, grainy Piave and peppercorn pecorino – extremely addictive plated with figs and fresh red grapes to refresh the palette. Served alongside grainy truffled honey, a berry preserve and walnuts coated in honey. The dish is simple but satisfying, and I would definitely order it again.
The cocktail list is a riot, I have half as much fun ordering as I do drinking. Salvation is crisp and refreshing. Trinity muddles fresh limes with mint, Tanqueray, Campari, and sweet Vermouth. The Holy Caesar is big with dill flavour and muddled peperoncini and basil. Lastly I am saved by a Divine Intervention - Aperol, Prosecco and soda garnished with a fruity orange curl. Amen!
Church is new, busy and exciting. And just after one visit I feel as though I am part of the congregation, I must attend at least once a week.
It’s in our ‘hood and we’ve been once … we liked it.