Auberge du Pommier (Toronto)

The Oliver & Bonacini brand, which operates 11 restaurants in Ontario, is an institution in the region, so the fact that I hadn't patronized any of the O&B restaurants until my most recent trip to Toronto is a bit astonishing, even to myself.  I guess I just never had the opportunity until now. Auberge du Pommier was at the top of my list of O&B eateries to try, and I was determined to pay a visit this time.

Auberge du Pommier's name, which means "Apple Inn" in French, sounds humble enough, but the modern French cuisine it serves in a rustic, cottage-like setting is anything but simple.  The building itself is gorgeous; unfortunately the darkness of the winter night prevented me from snapping a photo that does it justice, but trust me when I say that this is a favorite wedding venue for many in the daytime for its impeccably elegant decor. Go ahead, do a Google image search on it.

Entrance

We thought it'd be fitting to start out this special evening with a drink.  R. wanted wine but couldn't decide on one, so our very affable and helpful server brought him a sample of three different wines to aid in the decision.  As for me, I indulged in an Épicé aux Pommes cocktail, made with vodka, housemade apple vermouth, Calvados brandy, fresh lemon, and raw sugar syrup.

Wine samples

Épicé aux Pommes ($14)

Épicé aux Pommes close-up ($14)

As our server took our orders, he stealthily inquired whether we had any food allergies or restrictions. Turns out the kitchen had a surprise for us: a complimentary sample of Lobster Bisque with Squash and Coconut Cream.  Divine.

Complimentary Lobster Bisque with Squash and Coconut Cream

As for my entree, I was rather intrigued by the Oie: sliced goose from a regional farm (Clover Roads Organic Farm), roasted Brussels sprouts, pistachio, sweet and sour cranberries, and goose confit pot pie.  It a was spectacular dish.  The moist and tender goose meat was balanced nicely by the crunchy texture and the mix of sweet, sour, and salty flavors of the sides.  The goose confit pot pie - oh, the goose confit pot pie! - was simply otherworldly.  In fact, R. (who isn't much of a goose eater, mind you) kept digging into my pot pie and kept saying it was the best he'd ever tasted!

Oie ($45)

Oie ($45)

Oie ($45)

Oie ($45)

For dessert, we split a Gâteau au Fromage - a mascarpone cheesecake with mango glaze, tropical fruit salad, and lime and mint gelée. The texture of the cheesecake is fluffy, like biting into a soft pillow, and the flavor of the mixed fruits was marvelous. This was quite possibly the best cheesecake I've ever had. I thought I had died and gone to heaven!

Gâteau au Fromage ($11)

Before it was all over, there was a final surprise: instead of the standard post-meal mint candy (which I frankly loathe), we were served homemade Chocolate and Eggnog Macarons. See why I love the French? Oh, such wonderful memories of Paris!

Post-meal complimentary homemade chocolate and eggnog macarons

Our meal at Auberge du Pommier was truly one to remember. Every single aspect of it was perfect - actually, beyond perfect. J'adore, Auberge du Pommier!

Restaurant info:
Auberge du Pommier
4150 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M2P 2C6
(416)222-2220
On the web: http://www.oliverbonacini.com/Auberge-du-Pommier.aspx
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aubergedupommier
On twitter: https://twitter.com/Oliver_Bonacini


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