Conejo Negro—a lively, island-inspired restaurant and bar located at 838 College Street in Toronto—is the vision of three friends: chef Alycia Wahn, front-of-house lead Lamine Martindale, and bartender Diego Diaz. Opened in November 2023, this cozy, vibrant spot has already earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand, and it’s easy to see why.
Paying homage to Creole, Caribbean, and Latin American flavours, Conejo Negro is a small, welcoming hole-in-the-wall bursting with personality. The atmosphere channels what I like to call grunge chic—walls are painted black and charmingly peeling, ceiling fans spin slowly beneath a wood plank ceiling, and mirrors catch the dim light that gives the space its warm, moody vibe. The name, meaning Black Rabbit, symbolizes prosperity and fertility, and you’ll spot playful touches like black rabbit wallpaper and quirky rabbit trinkets throughout. A white bar with open geometric shelving anchors the front, while a lovely patio awaits out back.
The soundtrack is upbeat and island-inflected, perfectly complementing the bold, satisfying menu. Think firecracker shrimp, jerk chicken, curried lamb, and grilled corn ribs—flavour-packed dishes that don’t shy away from heat. The Brazilian cheese puffs made with tapioca, aged cheddar, and garlic butter were outstanding—something I usually only find in Miami. The cheddar-jalapeño cornbread with scallions, cultured honey, and butter was another standout: an elevated, deeply comforting version of a classic. The pork belly tacos were excellent too—crispy pork layered with pineapple salsa, avocado, cotija, cilantro, and salsa verde.
For lighter fare, there’s tuna and shrimp ceviche, blackened fish, mussels, and a few well-composed salads and vegetable dishes. The macaroni pie was rich and cheesy, and the kitchen doesn’t shy away from jalapeños or spice—something I appreciated.
The drinks list features a diverse selection of beers and expertly crafted cocktails. My pisco sour was as authentic and satisfying as any I’ve had in Miami. Prices are also refreshingly reasonable, considering the quality and care that go into each dish.
Dessert ended on a sweet note—with a slightly dry but flavourful sticky banana rum cake, and a stellar tres leches cake that ranks among the best I’ve ever had.
Conejo Negro is more than just a restaurant—it’s a heartfelt tribute to migration, heritage, flavour, and the shared joy of a good meal. It doesn’t aim for trendy fusion; instead, it celebrates the culinary traditions of the Caribbean, Latin America, and New Orleans with thoughtful technique and soul, a true neighbourhood gem.
Recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea
07/17/2025
