Pucker up for Pisco Sours at these Toronto restaurants
Chileans and Peruvians both lay claim to inventing the Pisco Sour — a classic South American cocktail with a white-brandy base. The tart tipple features a refreshing mix of pisco liquor, sour lime juice and egg white. And while the drink’s true origin might still be up for debate, there’s no doubt that you’ll find some delightfully frothy variations at these Toronto bars.
The Boulevard Cafe
161 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1H1Annex area locals fill up this charming Harbord Street bistro year-round, especially during the summer months when you’ll find crowds of diners enjoying an al fresco evening on the leafy side patio. Surrounded by fragrant and colourful hanging flower baskets, the patio is the perfect spot to sip on a refreshing Pisco Sour; the recipe here sticks to the tried-and-true mix of pisco, lime juice and egg white. The café’s Peruvian menu delivers a unique fusion of Incan, Spanish and African flavours. Try the house specialty Parihuela: a spicy seafood stew with monkfish, clams, mussels, tomatoes, cilantro and wine.
El Fogon
543 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C 1A3St. Clair West might be known for its Italian trattorias, but this authentic Peruvian eatery serves up an array of fresh fish, meat and seafood dishes that’ll give your taste buds a tour of South American cuisine. We suggest pairing the classically made pisco sours with the Arroz con Mariscos — a fragrant Peruvian paella made with rice, seafood, turmeric, coriander and white wine.
Mata Petisco Bar
1690 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6R 1B3This cool cantina on the western edge of Parkdale specializes in South American sharing plates (Brazilian tapas or “petisco”) prepared with a contemporary twist. The Pisco Sours are shaken in a traditional fashion with pisco, egg white, lime, simple syrup and lemon grass. The refreshing citrus libation pairs well with South-of-the-Border specialties like polenta frites, pão de queijoand Mahi Mahi ceviche.
Grand Electric
1330 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6K 1L4The hype continues to linger on years after former Black Hoof chef Colin Tooke opened his acclaimed taco joint in Parkdale. You’ll find a young hip crowd and strong drinks paired with seriously good Mexican street food at this buzz-worthy spot that’s perennially packed. After waiting for your table, reward your patience with a signature Grand Electric sour made with vanilla bourbon, lemon, agave syrup and egg white. Sure, there’s no actual pisco in this variation, but it’s a unique take on the classic cocktail and a great accompaniment to the Mexican-inspired menu.
Paracas
992 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6E 1A2This longstanding St. Clair West restaurant has been satisfying local cravings for Peruvian cuisine for over 15 years. The food menu is filled with exotic South American flavours and regionally inspired meat and seafood dishes. Regulars love the paella and chupe de mariscos (a rich and creamy seafood soup). As in Peru, the pisco here is available straight up or in cocktail form.
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