BARDI'S STEAK HOUSE

Many of you living in Toronto probably know of this steakhouse hot-spot, but for those of you who don't let me introduce you to Bardi's Steak House. Run by the dad of one of my good friends, Bardi's is located in the heart of Toronto's financial district, across the street from The Royal York. Bardi's is known internationally for their excellent service, food and wines. They serve only "Certified Angus Beef" and since 1994 have been the recipients of Wine Spectator Magazine's "Award of Excellence." This steak house is a huge step up from any Keg type steak place. Pricier, but well worth the extra money and is reflected in their delicious approach to all of their meals.

I am quite lucky as I have been to Bardi's many times! For those of you working downtown, this is a perfect spot for a business lunch or dinner. The steaks are excellent, perfectly cooked and blackened very nicely. The mushrooms that accompany most of the steaks are top notch, they are famous for their "cheesy bread" and the peasant salad is a perfect start to any meal.

Menu highlights:

Peasant Salad: Hothouse tomato topped with sliced onion, olives, oregano, feta cheese and extra virgin olive oil
Cheese and garlic bread for two
Shrimp Cocktail: "the largest Shrimps in the city" 
"Shrimp Bardi's:" in herb garlic butter 
Fresh Ontario Mushrooms
"BARDI'S SPECIAL": Bone in rib steak   
Filet Mignon: 6oz, 8oz, 12oz 
STEAK "DIANNE": Pan fried with mushrooms and green onion, demi glace and flamed with Remy Martin. Cooked entirely at table side.

Check out Bardi's if you are looking for a great steak and a cozy and welcoming atmosphere!

Bardi's Steak House

56 York St.

Toronto, Ontario

416-366-9211

www.bardis.com

photo credit: bardis.com

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Celebrating Dad's everywhere today! What are you doing for your dad on this special day? But more importantly, what are you cooking?!

Breakfast is big in our house on any special day. So this morning's feast was delicious scrambled or fried eggs, toasted bagels, perfectly crispy bacon and banana chocolate chip freshly made muffins. With some orange juice and coffee to wash it all down!

What's on the dinner menu? I'm sure steak will be a popular dinner tonight!

Here is a really great recipe for steak...STEAK DIANE, always delicious!

Ingredients: Serves Two

- 2 sirlion or rib eye steaks
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- sea salt
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp butter
Sauce
- 2 tbsp brandy or Cognac
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp snipped chives
- 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
- 1 tsp lemon juice

Directions: 

- Place a sheet of cling film over the steaks and pound with a rolling pin until quite flat (about 5mm/¼in). Season with pepper, but do not salt.

- Prepare the ingredients for the sauce now, as you won't have time later.

- Heat the oil and butter in a non stick frying pan, and cook the steaks briskly for 1 minute on each side. Draw the pan off the heat, transfer the steaks to two warm dinner plates and season with sea salt.

- Now, add the brandy or Cognac to the still-hot pan and return it to the heat, where - whoosh - it will flame.

- When the flame dies, reduce the heat and quickly add the butter, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, sea salt and pepper, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon for 1 minute, allowing the mixture to bubble and thicken.

- Add the chives, parsley, lemon juice and any juices that have gathered from the resting steaks, stir well and pour the bubbling sauce over the steaks.

- Serve immediately, with potatoes, asparagus, or a green salad. 

 

By BBC Food's Saturday Kitchen 

 

photo credit: theglobeandmail.com