Roasted cauliflower eggplant and lentils dish at a vegetable-forward restaurant in Toronto

Menu philosophy

Thoughtful Ingredients. Seasonal Cooking.

Our approach to food is rooted in flavour, seasonality, and balance.

Rather than focusing on restriction, we focus on ingredients that feel vibrant, nourishing, and deeply satisfying. Many dishes incorporate alternative flours, natural sweeteners, fermented elements, fresh herbs, and seasonal vegetables chosen at their peak.

Because we cook almost entirely from scratch and prepare dishes in small quantities, menu items may evolve regularly based on seasonal availability and inspiration from the kitchen.


Seasonal, Flavour-Driven Dishes

We offer a vegetable-forward menu in Toronto that includes a selection of meat and fish dishes, all prepared with the same level of care and intention.

Starters


Beet, watermelon, cassava

Roasted beets and fresh watermelon with creamy yogurt cheese and guacamole, finished with herbs and citrus accents. Served with a crisp cassava cracker for texture and lift.

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Escalivada

Roasted peppers, eggplant, zucchini and Manchego cheese.

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Vegetables & Seeds Risotto

Creamy (no rice) risotto with cauliflower, pear, farro, yogurt, vegetable broth, and wild mushrooms.

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Mains

Seasonal plates inspired by Spanish and French cooking traditions.


Roasted Cauliflower

Roasted vegetables with slow-cooked lentils, Mediterranean olive salsa, sesame paste, lemon confit, and herbs.

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Pacific Coho Salmon & kale

Oven-roasted salmon served with our spring kale salad.

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Summer Squash Beef Lasagna

Layers of sliced squash with slow-braised beef cheeks baked until rich and tender.

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Garden Veggie Burger

House-made lentil, cauliflower, broccoli, mushroom, and chickpea patty served with potato waffles and coleslaw.

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Desserts

Cottage Cheese Cheesecake

A light cottage cheese cheesecake with seasonal berries, candied orange and hibiscus.

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Chickpea Chocolate Brownie

Dark chocolate and chickpea brownie served with house-made berry jam, hazelnut and pistachio.

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Why Guests Visit El Tenedor

  • Seasonal vegetable-forward menu
  • Natural wine and low-intervention wine selection
  • Chef-led dining experience
  • Steps from Rosedale subway
  • Close to Yorkville and Summerhill
  • Gluten-free options available
  • Rated 4.8/5 by guests
  • Comfortable for date nights and small gatherings

Frequently Asked Questions

El Tenedor is an intimate chef-led restaurant in Toronto with a seasonal, vegetable-forward menu, natural wines, and balanced fish and meat options.

Yes. Vegetables lead the plate at El Tenedor, and the menu includes several vegetable-forward dishes.

No. While the menu is vegetable-forward, we also offer meat and fish options as part of a balanced dining experience.

Yes. El Tenedor offers gluten-free soups and selected mains. Guests can ask about current options when booking or ordering.

Reservations are recommended, especially for peak dining times and for guests interested in the tasting menu.

Yes. El Tenedor serves natural wines, low-intervention wines, house-made drinks, and signature cocktails.

Key Takeaways

  • El Tenedor is a vegetable-forward restaurant in Toronto, focusing on seasonal dishes.
  • The menu features a variety of meat and fish options, enhancing the overall dining experience.
  • Guests can enjoy a chef-guided tasting menu and pair their meals with natural wines.
  • The restaurant offers gluten-free options and encourages reservations for peak times.
  • Located at 909 Yonge Street, El Tenedor receives high ratings and is ideal for intimate gatherings.