1ST PLACE
MACARONI MAGIC!

TERRA RESTAURANT, 8199 Yonge St., 905-731-6161
Terra’s gourmet take on this quintessential comfort food elicits multiple “Mmmms” from the affable owner of Grano. Martella praises the presence of apple-smoked cheddar, lobster and mini-elbow pasta, but overall it’s the “Canadian northern flavour” that seals the deal. The only downside? With its nifty cast-iron casserole dish, “it would be hard to take to school in a lunch pail,” he says. Price: $19 plus tax

2ND PLACE

 
Oliver & Bonacini Cafe Grill ,2901 Bayview Ave.
“Adults, kids — from two to 100 — could eat this,” raves Martella. Peas and chicken add to nuanced taste, but overall punch is perhaps a bit muted. Price: $14.25 plus tax

THIRD PLACE

Weezie’s, 354 King St. E.
Martella praises the “classic cafeteria” presentation, tasty slab bacon cubes and gentle asiago and Parmesan cheeses. The overall effort receives a B on its final report. Price: $14 plus tax

FOURTH PLACE

Carens Wine & Cheese Bar , 158 Cumberland St.
Hot peppers make Martella tear up: “It needs alcohol, if not a fire department,” he gasps. Loses points for slightly “commercial” taste. Price: $16 plus tax

FIFTH PLACE

Tundra, 145 Richmond St. W.
The most attractive dish, but the lobster here seems better suited to a tossed pasta, where it can be better “exulted,” says Martella. Price: $12 plus tax2