A Mixed Bag of Flavors at The One Restaurant in Toronto: A Dining Experience Review

Toronto’s dining scene is full of surprises, and The One Restaurant has been one of my favorite spots for a while. I’ve enjoyed a couple of meals there before, each time impressed by the quality and atmosphere. But my most recent visit left me with mixed feelings. I had a three-course à la carte meal that started strong but ended on a less satisfying note. Here’s a detailed look at my experience, from the first bite to the last.

A Promising Start with Charcoal-Grilled Chicken Skewers

The evening began on a high note with the appetizer: charcoal-grilled chicken skewers. These were simply outstanding. The chicken was cooked perfectly, juicy and tender, with a smoky flavor that came through beautifully. The char from the grill added a subtle bitterness that balanced the spices well. Each bite was a reminder of why I keep coming back to this place.

The presentation was simple but inviting, served on a faux stone plate that matched the vibe of the restaurant. The skewers were paired with a light dipping sauce that complemented the meat without overpowering it. This dish set my expectations high for the rest of the meal.

The Main Course That Lost Its Spark

For the main course, I chose the Australian Wagyu Picanha steak, a cut I was eager to try given its reputation for rich marbling and tenderness. When it arrived, the steak looked perfect: a beautiful sear on the outside and a juicy pink center. Unfortunately, the excitement faded quickly when I realized the steak was served cold.

I mentioned this to the waiter, hoping for a quick fix. The staff reheated the steak, but the process did more harm than good. The reheating caused the steak to lose much of its flavor and become overcooked, turning what should have been a highlight into a disappointment. The texture suffered too, becoming tougher and less enjoyable.

This part of the meal was frustrating because the steak had so much potential. It’s clear the kitchen knows how to cook a great steak, but the service misstep affected the overall experience. The waiter’s handling of the situation felt a bit awkward and lacked the attentiveness I expected from previous visits.

Sweet Finish with Cream-Filled Doughnuts and Dubai Chocolate Ice Cream

Dessert brought some relief. I ordered the cream-filled doughnuts paired with Dubai chocolate ice cream. The doughnuts were light and fluffy, with a rich, smooth cream filling that wasn’t too sweet. The chocolate ice cream was dense and velvety, with a deep cocoa flavor that paired well with the doughnuts but felt thrown together.

This dessert combo was a comforting end to the meal, offering a nice contrast to the earlier steak disappointment. It reminded me why I keep coming back to The One Restaurant despite occasional hiccups.

Atmosphere and Service on a Busy Friday Night

The atmosphere was lively, typical for a busy Friday evening. The restaurant was bustling, which created a vibrant energy but also made it quite noisy. If you’re looking for a quiet, intimate dinner, this might not be the best night to visit. However, the lively crowd added to the sense of excitement and made the place feel popular and well-loved.

Service throughout the evening was mediocre. Aside from the steak issue, the staff seemed a bit overwhelmed by the crowd. They were polite but not particularly attentive or proactive. This was a noticeable change from my previous visits when the service felt more polished and responsive.

Reflecting on the Experience

This visit to The One Restaurant was a reminder that even favorite places can have off nights. The appetizer and dessert showed the kitchen’s skill and creativity, but the main course and service issues pulled the experience down. It’s disappointing because I know this restaurant can deliver excellent meals and attentive service.

If you’re planning to visit, I’d recommend going on a less busy night to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and hopefully better service. Also, keep an eye on how your steak is served—don’t hesitate to speak up if something isn’t right, though be prepared for a mixed response.

Final Thoughts

I’d rate this meal at The One Restaurant a 3.8 out of 5 stars. The charcoal-grilled chicken skewers and dessert were memorable, but the cold steak and the way the issue was handled left me wanting more. I hope my next visit will bring back the great experiences I’ve had before.