I remember a while ago, I was finding myself at really small, dimly lit, dark places for dinner which was awful for taking pictures but the food was on point.   Now there seems to be a resurgence of more open, brightly lit and larger spaces that are making their rounds on all the “must try” lists.  I was at Planta a while ago and they’ve definitely adopted the open aesthetic and this particular evening I found myself at Oretta, the newest rustic Italian restaurant to open its doors on King West.

I can’t even describe the impact of the design when you step foot into this restaurant.  You are instantly taken aback by the fact that its pretty much completely lit by the natural light coming through one entire side of glass windows.  Add in a few arched walls, a modern art deco vibe with a splash of sixties/seventies flair and you have Oretta.  I’m definitely not used to this kind of space in the city and when it started to flood my Instagram account I had to see it for myself.

It’s probably also one of the most instagramable places with their gorgeous horseshoe shaped bar smack dab in the middle of the restaurant, marble and wood finished tables, a multi-colored tiled floor and of course all that natural light that bloggers beg for.

Dinner started off with some delightful cocktails and wine and the full menu for the evening included:

My friend and I were sharing the Risotto and Capricciosa which was the perfect amount of food for two people.  I have to say, I was a little underwhelmed by the food.  There was nothing overtly stand out about it that I can even remember now that I am trying to piece the details together.  The risotto was done in a different way then I’m used to, pan fried with a crispy exterior and almost shaped like a little brick.  It was good but I miss the traditional preparation.  The pizza was also good but again fell in comparison to your Terroni’s and Pizza Liberettos.  No complaints, just no wow factor for me.

Photo Credit:  Toronto Life

More recently I spent some time at the Oretta cafe which is located right behind the resto. Smaller space with a lovely selection of sandwiches and pastries and ample working space.  Look out for a full review on the Bean Blog.

So my overall take on Oretta.  Its gorgeous.  I would 100% go back and perch myself at the expansive bar and maybe indulge in some cocktails and appies.  Would I go back for dinner, not sure.  It’s probably a great spot to hold a big get together where there aren’t any majorly opposing tastes or opinions on the food.  The menu will satisfy everyone and no one will go home complaining.

Discover Oretta
Address: 633 King Street West
Web:  http://oretta.to/
Instagram: @orettatoronto
$$ – $60/person – two cocktails, shared appy, two mains