Diwali, a Hindu festival of lights, is celebrated annually on the darkest, new moon of the year (in the lunar month known as Kartika). Communities worldwide mark this special day with traditions passed through generations including lighting divas, decorating homes and gathering with friends and family around the dinner table. Recipes are shared from great grandparents to grandchildren, stories are told and boxes of treats are gifted. In this year’s season of Diwali, Toronto restaurants are hosting dinners to celebrate with you.
Raani
Raani is the latest restaurant from Ambica Jain, co-founder of MJAJ Hospitality and the restaurateur behind Michelin Guide-recognized Adrak Yorkville. Here, the inspiration comes from the princely states of 18th- and 19th-century India. Executive Chef Shrikant Tadke explores regional recipes and cooking techniques through a menu arranged into seven chapters. There’s pit cooking, slow-braising, dum preparations, tandoor cooking and live-fire grilling, giving diners several directions to explore.
Raani gives you a reason to make a night of it. The 162-seat restaurant spans two levels, with marble, brass, hand-carved details and pieces sourced from India. Jewel-toned upholstery and floral mosaics bring colour to the room, while scalloped shapes appear in everything from mirrors and chandeliers to banquettes.
Adrak Yorkville
Sun Dried Tomato Paneer Tikka
Adrak Yorkville takes you through a journey of the past and present, creating the perfect vibe for thought-provoking conversations with your family and friends amid elevated Indian food, and delicious cocktails. The team at Adrak create dishes that are a representation of tradition, modernity and innovation. Backed by a talented team, experience redefined Indian cuisine in a space that’s welcoming, stylish, and intimate. The menu covers small plates, grills, curries and biryani, with plenty of vegetarian choices.
Pukka
Sweet Potato Samosas
Pukka offers a lively setting for getting friends or family together. Its sharing-focused menu includes Sweet Potato Samosas, Pumpkin Curry with Kashmiri chilli and coconut, and Stuffed Paneer with mushrooms in spinach curry. Several dishes are vegan or can be prepared vegan on request, which helps when everyone has different preferences. Order a bread basket for the table and leave room for sticky toffee pudding with chai-spiced sauce.
