Est Restaurant

The story

Est Restaurant Toronto: Contemporary French Tasting Menu on Queen Street East

Precision and local sourcing

Est Restaurant brings contemporary French dining to 729 Queen Street East in Toronto's Riverside neighbourhood. Chef and owner Jordan Diniz launched the space in 2022 with a focus on seasonality and precision. Executive Chef Dominic Fidilio leads the brigade, sourcing ingredients directly from Ontario producers to build a menu that shifts with the seasons.

Seasonal tasting menu

The kitchen presents five or seven courses designed as a rhythmic progression through texture and flavour. Current winter highlights include beetroot tartare with tarragon emulsion and black sesame, followed by foie gras mousse served with warm brioche and pickled shallots. Duck breast arrives with roasted sunchokes and cherry gastrique, while lobster bisque features crème fraîche and dill oil. A smoked chocolate ganache with orange zest and sea salt closes the evening, reflecting a philosophy that values doing fewer things perfectly.

Intimate reservation-only service

Est Restaurant operates exclusively by reservation, accommodating parties of up to eight guests with personalized attention. The ground floor features a minimalist aesthetic defined by soft lighting and curated playlists that encourage conversation. A recently unveiled upstairs expansion offers a separate volume for private events and select weekend service, providing flexibility for different occasions. Guests may choose optional wine pairings or non-alcoholic alternatives guided by Front-of-House Manager Jadyne Lajeunesse.

Green recognition and hospitality

Sustainability efforts at the Riverside location earned four radishes from the We're Smart Green Guide in 2026, highlighting waste reduction and support for local agriculture. Direct supplier relationships and transparent pricing allow the kitchen to maintain high standards while keeping the dining experience accessible. The service model avoids the rush of high-volume kitchens, ensuring courses arrive with precise timing. This combination of green operations and thoughtful hospitality creates a polished east-end dining experience where French cooking meets genuine warmth.