First Look: Grace Restaurant

Grace Restaurant serves its first dinners tonight. The space on College formerly known as Xacutti has been idle for some time, but after a recent makeover at the hands of owner Lesle Gibson, Grace is ready to introduce the concept of modern farmhouse to Little Italy.

Stepping inside the restaurant for a preview last night, the first thing I notice are the two plush, white banquets on the right hand side of the room. Comfortably seating eight, these are definitely the spots to secure if dining with a larger group. Further inside, smaller tables dot the 60 seat dining room followed by an intimate outside space (pictured above) perfect for a summer's meal for two.

While the kitchen here will be open late (midnight), Gibson says that Grace isn't trying to be a late night cocktail spot. Those honours will fall to the upstairs space - formerly Bird - which will be transformed into a bar and lounge scheduled to debut later this year.

The menu - created by former Susur sous chef Dustin Gallagher - will feature mainly local and seasonal produce. Prices range from $8 - $28 for appetizers and mains. Brunch service won't kick in until later this summer.

Check out the full opening dinner and dessert menus below: