Emerging from the challenges of the pandemic, 11:59 Bar:Café is a new restaurant tucked away in the financial district serving coffee and croissants by day, while by night, it transforms into a hub of shareable, contemporary Mediterranean cuisine.
Recently, Toronto has seen a surge of restaurants with menus designed to lure in morning caffeine enthusiasts and foodies into the evening. Amidst this wave, 11:59 Bar:Caféstands out by fostering a sense of community and connection amongst its patrons.
Owner Jessica Chan opted for the obscure name to symbolize transitioning from one moment to the next. “The excitement and liveliness associated with the final moments leading up to a new time of the day — just like the atmosphere in the bar,” she said.
Located at 70 Temperance Street, the restaurant finds its place just beneath an upscale apartment building. For some customers, the experience of finding the cafe feels reminiscent of a New York-style exploration, with its alleyway search enhancing its charm.
“It was designed in the middle of Covid,” said Chan. “I didn’t know what the future was going to be but I took a chance. I went for a design that promotes working with other people, socializing, eating, and an overall environment to get people talking again.”
Ensuring a steady stream of returning patrons day after day, the dynamic duo of bar manager Dmitriy Markov and executive chef Joshua Starks play a pivotal role. The pair work in tandem to produce a cocktail and food menu that blends together effortlessly. Markov and Starks are constantly updating the menu, as Starks mentioned that they were transitioning to their fall menu in a few weeks, but are currently going for a “tropical, Mediterranean focus.”
Two of the restaurants most popular dishes are the beef carpaccio, which showcase AAA beef tenderloin laid in delicate layers with ricotta, capers, radish and a sprinkling of pistachios. A playful interactive experience unfolds as guests craft each sumptuous bite by rolling the beef in the accompanying toppings.
The second star is the tropical platter, served on a large wood canvas. Crafted to be shared among a group, this dish boasts pork and chicken souvlaki, the TikTok-famous corn ribs, a side of fries, a medley of veggies, and a trio of delectable dips including whipped feta and house-made tzatziki.
The drink menu is short yet robust. Must-try libations include a gin cocktail that infuses the botanical liquor with butterfly pea blossom flowers, mixed with sapin liquor and lemon juice. The drink perfectly balances the aromatic bitterness of the gin with tart fruit sourness and dryness. Equally noteworthy is their namesake cocktail, the 11:59, which features a rye blend at the base, crowned with a mint and basil foam that dances atop
A similar artisanal journey awaits guests in the morning hours too. With an impressive selection spanning various coffee styles, they expertly match these robust brews with buttery pastries and airy breakfast sandwiches.
Chan and her team have created an atmosphere that emphasizes community. From the arrangement of chairs, to the warm and welcoming staff, every facet of this establishment beckons you to indulge in a drink and savour the moment.
11:59 Bar:Café is open Monday to Wednesday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to late, and Saturday from 6 p.m. to late.