Famous Toronto chef opens latest restaurant in iconic building

A prolific Toronto chef and restaurateur is breathing new life into a historic building with his latest venture, which just opened its doors.

The Financial District just got a whole lot tastier. And no, for once, that doesn't mean that another steakhouse just joined the neighbourhood.

Rather, it's The Frederick, the latest venture by visionary Toronto chef Cory Vitiello, that's causing all the buzz, and despite its sister, The Chase, resting a few floors above The Frederick, there's nothing stuffy about it.

Vitiello has a storied history on Toronto's food scene, from serving as the chef at the once-cherished Harbord Room to later acquiring The Chase and establishing The Chase Restaurant Group.

Now, he's got something entirely new up his sleeve.

Revitalizing the historic Dineen building, The Frederick is a reimagination of the classic bar and grill concept with rich colours, polished finishes and a timeless energy that translates directly from its interiors to its menu.

"This is a concept I've been thinking about for years," Vitiello says.

The central thesis at The Frederick is that "classic dishes, when done right, still have the power to surprise you," Vitiello explains, and he'll be fighting to prove it on the battleground of the once-gritty, now chic historic building.

The all-day menu features a diverse selection of comfort foods, from molasses bread to salads and pastas, but perhaps the most exciting addition of all is the revival of the Harbord Room burger, initially made famous at Vitiello's celebrated fine dining restaurant, The Harbord Room.

Oh, and the spinach and artichoke dip. We're big fans.

The cocktail menu follows the same blueprint as the food one, in that diners can expect classic beverages done impeccably well.

A seasonal cocktail list is paired with an extensive wine selection that combines longstanding producers and emerging wineries for the perfect pairing.

After all, Vitiello himself describes The Frederick as being "built for martinis over lunch." If you insist, Mr. Vitiello, we're happy to oblige.

The Frederick is officially open as of Tuesday, Sept. 9, on the ground floor of the Dineen building at the corner of Yonge and Temperance streets.

The Frederick is located at 10 Temperance St.