Team known for Michelin-rated spot launches Mexican restaurant in Toronto

A Toronto culinary team that's received Michelin nods for their Mediterranean restaurant is forging an entirely new path, and it's already proving a success.

Though the team behind Danforth's Azura may have already seen some major success on their locally sourced Mediterranean dishes (two consecutive slots on the Toronto Michelin Guide since opening, to be exact), they're not content to rest on their laurels.

The flavours of the Mediterranean have proven a recipe for success for Executive Chef Adam Ryan, but for his latest trick, he's set his sights on the Western Hemisphere, honing in on Mexican cuisine with his latest venture, Alebrije.

Located in the heart of the ever-exciting (culinarily speaking, anyway) Harbord Village neighbourhood, Alebrije is an upscale adventure through traditional Mexican dishes and flavours, all crafted, in the style of Azura, using Canadian ingredients.

"From growing up eating Tex-Mex to travelling and experiencing authentic Mexican food, the cuisine has always remained a favourite," says Ryan.

"As a Canadian chef driven by innovation, I've always loved the idea of playing with these traditional flavours that have resonated with me since childhood, and translating them into different dishes, while incorporating the freshest local produce available."

At Alebrije, this comes in the form of elegant shareable plates which overflow with those familiar flavours Ryan refers to while maintaining an unexpected and always exciting air.

Veering away from the tried-and-true tacos and tequila formula (not that there's anything wrong with that), the restaurant's menu features refined renditions of Mexican classics, like Steak a la Plancha with Oaxacan black mole, braised mushrooms and sweet potato.

Other menu standouts include Birria Beef Short Rib, with poblano tamale and brussels sprout slaw and elevated takes on favourites like Charro Beans, Esquites and Pollo Asado, to name only a few.

As for cocktails, you can expect seasonal margarita flights, which, paired with an extensive selection of craft beer and local wine, make the whole meal go down even smoother than it already did.

Opening its doors in early September, Alebrije already has all the makings of a new local go-to, in a neighbourhood where inventive, elevated takes on familiar favourites are the standard: just take a page out of Maven's or Piano Piano's books.

Alebrije is located at 119 Harbord St.