FLOR DE SAL

One cannot pass by this charming “corner house” with its dramatic grey exterior and landscaped front garden without dropping in. This is the new restaurant of Cristina Da Costa, a novice in the game, but unafraid to share her personal stylish ways of décor and cuisine with us, secure in the knowledge that we will love it. To bring her culinary dream to fruition, she has hired the best in the kitchen. Executive Chef Robert Fracchioni was born and bred on good food in the Emilia Romagna area of Italy, and made a name for himself in Niagara-on-the-lake. The moment you enter the front door, you will recognize that you are in a romantic, lovely environment. A fireplace in every room, white tablecloths agleam with the reflection of candles, and fresh flowers everywhere. For me, the welcome sets the tone for evening. Cristina has the personality for hospitality, and her Mediterranean roots are reflected in every aspect of the restaurant. Dinner begins with grilled sardines with arugula and sun-dried tomato and grilled octopus with black-eyed peas, charred cauliflower, lemon and capers. The kitchen is meticulous with its presentations, and whole grilled Branzino with an array of vegetables is indeed a beautiful fish. Roasted Cornish hen with its prune stuffing is a treat, and if the lamb chops are on the menu, you will not go wrong. Cristina says, “My premise is taste, smell, touch and visualization of what I will be serving you, with service second to none.” And this she has done.