From restaurateurs Oliver & Bonacini’s eclectic stable (that reared some of the most interesting places to eat in Toronto, such as Canoe and Canteen), Biff’s is steeped in a delightful 1930s Parisian style. With its beaten leather banquettes and sleek interiors it’s a buzzing place for city lunches, with waistcoat-wearing waiters efficiently churning out hearty bistro fare. 

In summer, the terrace is encased by flower-filled railings for an explosion of colour in the surrounding concrete jungle. Biff’s is also one of the many restaurants involved in Toronto’s bi-annual Summerlicious/Winterlicious food festival offering absurdly cheap eats. But there’s always a multi-choice prix fixe at both lunch and dinner, and a wide selection of staples such as duck confit, steak frites or beef bourguignon. 

The B’oysterous zinc bar and its $1-oysters from 5pm create a worthy after-work diversion.