Paramour, Toronto

Paramour sits just a few doors down from co-owners Adam Baduley and Amber Honor Elson's other venture, Levack Block, but according to Amber "this is a totally different animal." Levack Block was originally envisioned as a multi-faceted bar restaurant space, but has taken on much more of a neighbourhood watering hole vibe (even if said 'hood is loaded with hotspots). Paramour fills the other side of their vision, not a spot to grab a drink with friends, but a French-Inspired destination for fine dining. Amber calls it a date spot, but I'd be more inclined to call it a third date spot. "Paramour" does mean secret lover, after all.

Plush velvet curtains cordon off the light, which showcases the restaurant's dark femininity. Vintage pink art deco chairs and banquettes line the walls, while model glamour shots adorn the unfinished wooden planks. The back room has more of an Alice in Wonderland vibe, with alternating black and white furniture, a communal single white-clothed table, and a polychromatic cubist painting striking contrast against the vibrant fuchsia wall. The space was obviously designed with a skilled hand, and there's a definite pre-coital atmosphere permeating over the space.

Although style is paramount, there's some serious high-dining cachet to back it up. House Manager Adly Gawad formerly held the post at pre-reno Splendido (one of the highest posts in the Toronto service industry), while Chef Laura Malin worked for years in the kitchen of Jamie Kennedy at the ROM.