French cuisine in Toronto plays out like a tale of two cities: Le Select Bistro, the seasoned veteran celebrated for its timeless charm, and La Plume, the new kid on the block bringing southern French elegance to The Well.
From classic French fare that could charm even the pickiest Parisian to chic interiors that set the stage for an unforgettable evening, both restaurants promise a taste of France without the jet lag.
Here’s how they stack up.
The Vibe
Le Select: Step into a time warp of Parisian elegance with burgundy booths, mosaic floors and vintage art prints. It’s like dining in a classic French film, minus the subtitles.
La Plume: Modern meets romance here, with high ceilings, patterned tile floors and chandeliers dripping in dusty rose fringe. Don’t miss Bonne Nuit, the secretive boudoir-inspired speakeasy  offering late-night intrigue.
The Menu
Le Select: Think duck confit, tarte tatin and other French classics. Chef Ted Corrado adds a modern twist while keeping the soul of the bistro intact.
La Plume: Features a seasonal menu inspired by southern French cuisine, including gourmet tartares and a decadent French onion soup.
Drinks & Cocktails
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Le Select: Known for its extensive wine selection and classic cocktails, ideal for wine enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados alike. Le Sélect boasts Canada’s largest wine cellar with over 1200 labels, including vintages dating back to 1947.
La Plume: From the Riviera Spritz to the Plume Negroni, the bar at La Plume serves up modern twists on French classics. It’s where brunch meets high fashion and every hour is happy hour.
The Chefs
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Le Select: Corporate executive chef Ted Corrado’s commitment to traditional bistro fare shines through in every bite, ensuring Le Select stays true to its roots while adding a modern touch.
La Plume: Chef de cuisine Navider Saini from Parcheggio collaborates with chef John Horne to bring a fresh perspective to French cuisine, emphasizing creativity and seasonal ingredients.
The Buzz
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Le Select: A Toronto staple, Le Select has fed generations of city dwellers with its timeless charm and impeccable taste. It’s where celebrities rub elbows with local foodies, all in search of the perfect croque madame.
La Plume: Located inside The Well, La Plume is the talk of the town, luring in the city’s trendsetters with its blend of chic vibes and southern French charm. It’s the spot to see and be seen, whether for lunch, dinner or a late-night rendezvous.
