One of Toronto’s newest openings, Enoteca Rossio arrived quietly, with very little fanfare, in the city’s West end. Tucked into the Junction Triangle at 1444 Dupont Street, it opened in March 2026, taking over the former Piri Piri space.
This is, at its heart, a true neighbourhood restaurant. Casual, comfortable, and genuinely friendly. The space is divided into three distinct areas: a relaxed lounge, a main dining room seating roughly 70 guests, and a speakeasy tucked discreetly in the back, adding an unexpected layer to the experience.
The design isn’t overtly Italian, even if the menu is. High ceilings and exposed ductwork give the room an airy, slightly industrial feel, softened by a palette of light greens, with banquettes in green and burnt orange. Wood floors and tables ground the space, while an open kitchen adds energy. Soft lighting keeps things warm, and the walls are dotted with images of iconic Italian scenes, from the Spanish Steps to Positano and Venice. The soundtrack leans nostalgic, with an old-fashioned playlist that feels familiar and comforting.
Just a month in, the restaurant has already seen a shift in the kitchen, with the departure of Executive Chef Andrew Capone. The sous chef has stepped into the lead role. While that might raise questions, the menu itself was developed collaboratively and remains rooted in approachable Italian comfort food. The focus is on shareable plates, house-made pastas, pizzas, and straightforward proteins. Nothing is overly conceptual. The goal is clear: satisfying, reasonably priced food in a setting that welcomes return visits.
We kept things simple. An arugula salad with pear and gorgonzola was pleasant enough, but it was the pizza and pasta that stood out. The pizza, Neapolitan in spirit, is finished with a lightly oiled base and cooked a touch longer, resulting in a crispness that sets it apart. The spaghetti bolognese was excellent, rich with meat and generously slicked with oil, indulgent and deeply satisfying. For dessert, a choice between tiramisu, panna cotta, and an orange crème brûlée led us to the latter, which was bright, balanced, and well executed.
There is a substantial wine list, though the by-the-glass selection feels more limited, with most options clustered around the $14 mark. It would benefit from a few more elevated pours for those looking to enhance the experience.
They’re not trying to reinvent anything here. This is a place to gather with friends or family, enjoy a familiar Italian meal, and be taken care of with warmth. A neighbourhood spot with the makings of a little gem.
Happy dining,
Shanea
04/19/2026
