Located at 798 Bloor Street West next to Christie Pits Park, Chantecler is a charming neighbourhood restaurant serving refined French bistro cuisine rooted in Canadian ingredients and seasonality. This is the restaurant’s second incarnation after the original location was sadly destroyed by fire in 2019, and its return has been warmly welcomed by Toronto diners.
The intimate space accommodates approximately 60 guests, along with a lively 12 seat bar that becomes increasingly energetic as the evening unfolds. Large front windows fill the restaurant with natural light during the day, while the warm lighting and relaxed atmosphere create an inviting setting by night. One detail I particularly appreciated was the eclectic collection of vintage-inspired dishware, what I like to call “grandma plates,” which adds personality and charm to the dining experience.
Named after a Canadian heritage breed of chicken, Chantecler is owned by Jacob Wharton Shakster and Stephen Prickett, with the kitchen currently led by Chef Diego Reyes. Although the restaurant has seen several chefs over the years, the current menu feels confident, cohesive, and thoughtfully executed. The kitchen places strong emphasis on making everything in house, and that attention to detail is evident throughout the meal.
A standout from the start was the exceptional brioche roll, finished with a sweet rosemary glaze and served alongside whipped cream butter. It is an absolute must order. We also sampled the scallop crudo in a pear, coriander, and champagne brine, which delivered lovely flavour and freshness, although the portion itself was extremely modest. Additional small plates included the braised duck cavatelli, the rich and comforting cheesy onion soup, and beautifully prepared butter poached Ontario asparagus. Each dish showcased comforting French flavours with a polished seasonal approach.
For mains, the dry aged bone in rib steak was excellent and substantial enough to comfortably serve two to three people. Equally impressive was the duo of Ontario duck featuring a confit leg alongside dry aged breast finished with a cranberry glaze, charred onion soubise, and cranberry jus. Available in either a half or full portion, the duck was cooked with precision and beautifully balanced. A generous side of properly cooked fries served with lemon and house made aioli completed the meal perfectly.
Dessert offerings included four choices, and we selected the crème brûlée along with the Paris Brest, both classic and satisfying conclusions to the evening.
Chantecler is a restaurant I had been meaning to visit for years, and I left genuinely impressed. It succeeds as both a polished dining destination and a true neighbourhood restaurant, offering warm hospitality alongside comforting, seasonal French cuisine in an inviting setting. It is the kind of place that inspires repeat visits and continues to earn its loyal following.
Recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea
5/9/2026
