Pie Bar, Toronto

207 Queens Quay W, Toronto

Now I know what you may be thinking ... but no, this is not a pie shop. No pies on this menu -- only pizza pies!

Located inside the Queens Quay Terminal, Pie Bar is a casual lakeside food and drink spot with Italian-style menu options.

Instead of “pizza,” Pie Bar says “Pizza Pie,” so we’ll go along with that (even though their pizza’s don’t at all resemble pie shape or form!).

Regardless, their Instagram makes me hungry! Their pizza’s are stone cooked with ‘OO’ Italian flour, their pastas are house made with gluten free, vegan and vegetarian variations available upon request and their starters check off every box in the appetizer department: calamari -- check, tuscan fries -- check, carbonara arancini -- check, check, check!

Nothing on this menu is hard to pronounce. All ingredients are listed on the menu so there are no surprises when your food comes. Except the taste, though — BEWARE: Pie Bar may exceed your initial taste expectations!

With a patio overlooking Lake Ontario and a cozy indoor dining space for colder evenings, Pie Bar makes it easy to make a day or night of fun, great views and yummified relaxation.

I regret not trying the pizza :( .... But I will for sure do so the next time I make my way back to Pie Bar, TO.

We made evening reservations in late August and sat on the patio. The weather was beautiful and made the outdoor dining experience much more enjoyable. The service was great; quick, friendly and all we could ask for.

The only minor disadvantage is that being inside Queen’s Quay terminal, you do need to do some walking after parking to actually access the restaurant.

The versatility of this restaurant is awesome; it makes for a great daytime spot after a day at Toronto Island or venturing the streets of downtown Toronto, or even a romantic spot for a cozy meal.

Pie Bar is a great (first) date night spot too (I can attest to that!). Casual but still romantic and a very sweet concept to stir up some good conversation.

Here’s what we ordered at Pie Bar, TO:

Tuscan Fries $10 10/10

The tuscan fries came crispy, HOTT and flavourful. The fries were garnished with rosemary, Italian seasoning, parmesan and a hint of truffle oil. I found this combination great and am happy with their decision to use lighter truffle oil in place of shaved truffle. Fries are fries at the end of the day -- but these were “Italian” ;) So, 10/10.

Salsiccia Penne $21

9.5/10

This pasta was fresh and seasoned well. The sausage was browned nicely and not too overpowering, seasoning-wise. The tomato sauce had low water content but was a tad sweet (more so than what I am used to with homemade tomato sauce). It was rich in all the right ways and had NO bitter or acidic aftertaste. I added hot oil and some parmesan on top! 9.5/10.

Penne Rose $23

10/10

Oh a classic rosé. You can never go wrong! Simple but hit the spot. Added parmesan on top which is a must in my opinion. 10/10.

Reasonably priced, fresh food and a very pretty view of Toronto's beautiful skyline.

Let me know your verdict when you try this hidden gem for yourself!

Until my next dose of YUM,

xx Sab