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Terra isn’t technically inside the city of Toronto, but it offers one of the most rewarding dining experience in the GTA area. Granted it doesn’t have the view of the cityscape, or the most expensive menu, but its blend of high quality ingredients and great food combinations make it worth visiting. Their menu does change every now and then to reflect the availability of the ingredients, but there are a few staples worth mentioning. Their seared ahi-tuna ($16.95) in a honey-wasabi soya glaze is perfectly executed with the glaze adding just enough spice to this delicate fish. Another recommendation is the duck confit ($32.95) which is prepared crispy with Yukon fries in a porcini sauce. It isn’t a traditional French taste, but they manage it pretty well.

In addition to the main dining area, they also offer a separate Tapas and Oyster bar. The prices are a bit on the high side for tapas (crispy lobster and prawn dumplings for $21.95 seems a bit excessive) but the taste is great. They wisely avoid going the traditional route with tapas, as this restaurant is anything but traditional. Its modern decor and ambiance screams high end, and the oyster bar is one of the best I’ve seen in GTA. You can have oysters starting from Merigomish (New Brunswick) all the way to Kumamoto (Washington): I would strongly recommend getting a dozen assorted oysters ($19.95) as it’s really tough to just eat one.

If you’re looking for fine dining outside of the city downtown, all you have to do is venture a little bit north (to 8199 Yonge Street, to be precise). Once you start tasting the food, you’ll forget you’re no longer inside Toronto.

[Visit Terra Restaurant's website for more information and menu]

If you want Greek food in Toronto, your best bet is to go to Danforth area where Greek restaurants are plentiful. The trick is to figure out where local Greek population go out to eat, and if my visit to Mezes is any indication, many of them choose this restaurant. Open since 1996, this restaurant is cozy with just 65 seats. Without reservations, you should be prepared for a long wait.

The restaurant’s menu features all the traditional Greek fares such as filo pastries, souvlakis, plenty of dips and mousaka. No matter what you choose in the menu, you will be greeted with authentic smell and taste. Atmosphere is vibrant, especially during dinner time where all the times are full with patrons and savory food, and the prices are very reasonable.

When you visit GreekTown and you are looking for an authentic experience, make your way to Mezes which is located at Danforth and Logan intersection.