— Bespoke fine dining in historic landmark continues award-winning tradition
with prestigious hospitality recognition –
DiRōNA’s purpose is to elevate the dining experience for restaurant-goers across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Its main objective is to identify and honor exceptional fine dining establishments that provide an unforgettable culinary journey for patrons. By recognizing and celebrating exceptional restaurants, DiRōNA ensures that diners have access to a curated selection of the finest dining establishments in the region. The distinction guarantees that guests will be treated to exceptional service, exceptional cuisine, and an atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Destination dining in high art and style
DaNico is a uniquely designed, bespoke destination located in a heritage bank building at 440 College St. West, in downtown Toronto. Conceived with a nod to Michelin styled cuisine, service and award-winning design, the restaurant showcases the acclaimed talent of executive chef Daniele Corona — formerly of Michelin-starred, Don Alfonso 1890 Toronto — created in partnership with international hospitality icon, Nick Di Donato, CEO of Liberty Group, multi-starred chef Ernesto Iaccarino of the Don Alfonso 1890 Group, and chef Corona.
“The DiRōNa Award of Excellence is an incredible achievement for our team, given it holds immense prestige within the dining and hospitality communities globally and serves as a trusted symbol of excellence,” said Chef Corona. “We are proud to have been recognized in our first three months of business and look forward to continuing our award-winning journey.”
An elevated experience at DaNico
The intimate, yet showstopping 60-seat restaurant offers the utmost in refined elegance, through bespoke cocktails at the bar, through a multicourse, prix fixe or a la carte menu of gastronomic delights. Corona’s edgy approach to his signature menu focuses on the modern Italian culinary tradition for which he is lauded, combining modern Asian influences and utilizing the best local, and sustainable ingredients available. The eight course signature tasting menu of distinctively crafted dishes –produced with chef’s expert precision juxtaposing premiumingredients — is plated on one-of-a-kind serving vessels, designed to tell his story of the food in a most breathtakingpresentation. Each dish may be paired with the signature mixology program and showstopping wine program from the cellar, housed in the original bank vault and featuring more than 3,000 bottles. Bookings are online for dinner service Wednesday – Sunday evenings.
DaNico’s historic and storied space — with its vaulted thirty foot ceilings, open kitchen, Chef’s table, intimate banquettes and buzzy bar, finished with lavish Italian mohair velvets, lush brocades and English leather, gleaming marble, porcelain, Versace ceramics, crystal, and rich warm woods — acts as a canvas for the food it presents. Liberty Group’s creative director, designer Nadia Di Donato has thoughtfully selected every detail,piece of furniture and curated works of art — including a triptychcollaboration between Canadian artists, Max Jamali and Peter Triantos, and signature pieces by Salvador Dali, Damien Hirst and Mr. Brainwash — all elevating the experience. Juxtaposing classic architecture, heirloom antiques and a modern design aesthetic all combine to immerse diners in a simply transcendent setting, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
“This important award continues to raise the bar for DaNico, as well as maintaining a tradition with our other restaurant projects,” added Mr. Di Donato. “We remain steadfast in our mission to Michelin… and to our vision to elevate Toronto’s fine-dining community and hospitality scene and be recognized amongst the absolute best on the world’s hospitality stage.”
About DiRōNa
DiRōNA acts as an authority for excellence in distinguished dining, constantly striving to enhance the dining landscape. Through educational initiatives, DiRōNA promotes culinary innovation and fosters continuous improvement among its awardees. This dedication to ongoing improvement ensures diners will always encounter fresh and exciting culinary experiences. DiRōNA facilitates networking opportunities for restaurant professionals, allowing them to connect, share insights, and collaborate. This exchange of ideas among industry leaders benefits the diner as it promotes the constant evolution and refinement of dining establishments, resulting in even more remarkable culinary offerings. Additionally, DiRōNA’s commitment to philanthropy underscores its dedication to making a positive impact on local communities and further enriches the overall dining experience.
DiRōNA works tirelessly to ensure that diners have access to exceptional dining experiences. The organization’s recognition of outstanding restaurants guarantees that one’s dining journey will be nothing short of extraordinary. From exquisite cuisine and impeccable service to continuous innovation and community support, DiRōNA strives to enhance dining adventures and create lasting memories.
About Liberty Entertainment Group
For over three decades the Liberty Entertainment Group, led by Nick Di Donato, has been redefining Toronto’s restaurants, nightlife, and special event experiences. As developers and operators of landmark establishments the Liberty Entertainment Group has become recognized as one of the most successful and innovative companies in the industry. The company continues to gain success and acknowledgment for its impressive roster of unique venues, including Toronto’s premiere special event facilities, Casa Loma, and Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex. The company is also responsible for the development of Toronto’s most prolific restaurants including BlueBlood Steakhouse, Michelin-starred Don Alfonso 1890, three Cibo Wine Bar locations (King West, Yonge St, and Yorkville), Toronto’s new, premier sports & country bar, Paris Texas, the new DaNico, and a project currently under development, Blue Bovine Steak + Sushi House. Liberty Entertainment Group has achieved multiple awards and honours including the 2023Michelin Guide, Best Italian Restaurant in the World (outside Italy) – 50 Top Italy, Best New Restaurant in the World & Tre Forchette (3 Forks) – Gambero Rosso, Best Italian Restaurant in Canada & Top Ten of all Restaurants in Canada – La Liste, Distinguished Restaurants of North America – DiRōNA, Top 100 Restaurants in Canada – OpenTable, Best of Award of Excellence – Wine Spectator, and others. With over 500,000 square feet of hospitality space, Liberty Entertainment Group caters to a diverse clientele of upwards of 1.75 million people per year including A list celebrities, sports personalities, and industry leaders. Visit www.libertygroup.com.
BKonthescene 