Francesca's Forno– don't go.

After a too-fast jaunt through Chicago's Renegade Craft Fair and before the next morning's half marathon, it was time to carb load at nearby Francesca's Forno. Although I'd read many great reviews of this place online as well as a personal recommendation by my sister, I'm sorry to report that the food was awful. One word: SALTY. Too much salt is the worst cooking crime according to Nigella Lawson, and I couldn't agree more. On the other hand, my cousin said she hated her meal for the exact opposite reason– not enough salt or seasoning. I wish I'd been at Terroni instead.

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Finally Foxley

We've been trying to have dinner at Foxely since it opened, but always seem to pick a night when the wait is over an hour. Last night we were lucky to score the last table, sitting comfortably at the back with a nice breeze from the open door.

I've loved this style of spicy, asian infused cooking since we first tried Youki years ago. Youki is long gone, but Foxley's chef who was involved with that temple of cuisine brought back fond memories with each dish we sampled.

Blue crab and avocado salad


Spicy crispy shrimps with jalepeno and garlic


Steamed p.e.i mussels with green curry


Grilled hanger steak with chimichuri


Lamb and duck prosciutto dumplings

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Pizzazzeria Libretto

Note to self: Avoid restaurants that have just been written up. Now / BlogTO / Globe & Mail. Especially when they don't take reservations, and are located on trendy Ossington Ave. It's not easy for a meal to live up to expectations after an hour and a half wait, even if you pass it comfortably drinking at a nearby bar.

Antipasti & Bruschette
While not everyone agreed (extended wait bitterness), I think the food was excellent. Even in the chaos of a full house and a never ending line-up, the food came out at a reasonable pace – and it was good. I hardly remember the appetizers, but looking at the pictures again, I'm going to say the Brushette with spicy sausage, pesto and goat chesse was my favorite. The other two shown are Calmari and Burrata on heirloom tomatoes.

Pizza
I was excited when everyone selected a different pizza, but I was only able to sample Fusilli's Quattro Stagione. I didn't really feel like sharing either, and only gave up half a slice. Next time when hunger isn't clawing at me, I'd consider sharing a full slice.... but only one!

When the pizzas arrived, the camera was passed around and Prosecco got the best shot. Featured pizza – Sardines (Tomato, Citrus Olives, Herbs, Chili Oil). From the left: Margherita (Tomato, Basil, Ingersoll Fiore Di Latte Mozzarella), Duck Confit (Pesto, Tomato), Quattro Stagione (Tomato, Ingersoll Fiore Di Latte Mozzarella, Cacciatore, Bella Olives, Mushroom & Artichoke) & House-Made Sausage (Caramelized Onion, Mozzarella, Chili Oil).

I had the Duck Confit, which may sound odd on pizza, but if you grew up on Rosa's sexy duck, it's the obvious choice. Meaty, rich and delicious.

Dolci
Before dinner I always tell myself that I'm not going to have dessert. I'll blame the wine, which was excellent, for convincing me that you can't pass up a Panna Cotta. Luckily, by the time dessert arrived, the spirit of sharing had returned and we all tried a bite of each. My second favorite was the Pistachio Gelato followed by the Cannoli.

For more info, see the full menu.

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