Bar Isabel

Bar Isabel reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Review summary

1. E

   Emma

   Unspecified2 reviews

   4.0

   Dined 1 day ago

   1. Overall 4
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 2
   4. Ambience 5

   The food was excellent, as always, and we had a lovely time. We really appreciated being seated at the table we requested in our reservation notes—it was a thoughtful detail. However, we were celebrating our 1st anniversary at what has always been our favourite spot in the city, and it was disappointing that there was no acknowledgment of the occasion. A simple “congratulations” or even a candle would have meant a lot. With the 20% gratuity already included, we expected warm and attentive service as we always experienced here. Unfortunately, our server was cold and disengaged throughout the evening and wasn’t very attentive, and unlike the other tables around us, we didn’t even receive a simple goodbye when we left. The food was great, but my husband and I were very disappointed since it was such an important occasion. With cold service and no acknowledgment, it was a very big disappointment. We love this place but might start looking for a new favourite.
   

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2. S

   Shereef VIP

   Toronto1 review

   5.0

   Dined 4 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   We go every few months and do the tasting menu at the bar. Last night was particularly delightful and each dish was scrumptious. The pulpo & the house crostini w shaved fois gras for the win last night. The Basque cake is always worthy of mention. Must try when in Toronto. Shereef Shiaty
   

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3. J

   Julia

   Toronto5 reviews

   5.0

   Dined 4 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 4

   Bar Isabel is our favorite special occasion place. The food is my favorite and they always treat us so well.
   

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4. J

   John

   Philadelphia1 review

   5.0

   Dined 4 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   An absolutely incredible experience from start to finish.
   

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5. D

   Daniela VIP

   Toronto15 reviews

   5.0

   Dined 5 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   It was the perfect place with amazing food to spend a weekend afternoon.
   

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6. A

   AMIN

   Toronto4 reviews

   2.0

   Dined 7 days ago

   1. Overall 2
   2. Food 3
   3. Service 3
   4. Ambience 2

   Bar Isabel has a cozy, intimate vibe — but be warned, the second you step in, it’s loud. Everyone’s talking and laughing so loudly that for a moment, we actually thought about leaving. But we said screw it, let’s give it a shot. We ordered two cocktails (both solid), a glass of wine my wife loved, and started with the bone marrow — which was excellent. We followed that with their steak, which I personally thought was okay, but my wife really enjoyed it. For dessert, we got something with a complicated name (can’t remember it) but it was actually really good. Service was great — friendly and attentive. The total came out to about $170 for two mains, three drinks, and one dessert. A 20% service fee was automatically included, which felt odd for a Toronto restaurant. I’m all for tipping for good service, but it shouldn’t be forced — earn it through experience, not by default. Overall, I’d give it a 6.5 or 7 out of 10. It’s worth trying once, especially if you’re curious (like we were) after seeing George Motz post about it. But honestly, there are better spots in the area.
   

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7. D

   David

   Toronto4 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on May 9, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Always a treat to have dinner at the bar! Thank You
   

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8. L

   Luis VIP

   Montreal2 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on May 8, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   The food, ambiance, and service were all top-notch. Now, let's talk about the food: The shishito peppers were perfectly portioned with spot-on seasoning and a delightful citrus note. The queso mostarda was an absolute standout, with a delicious balance that wasn't too heavy. The sea bream ceviche was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the patatas bravas added a nice touch. A special thank you to the staff for making our anniversary celebration extra special with a beautifully arranged table and a thoughtful treat. Overall, great value for the quality and experience!
   

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9. J

   Justine VIP

   Toronto17 reviews

   4.0

   Dined on May 7, 2025

   1. Overall 4
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 4
   4. Ambience 4

   Love the food! An iconic restaurant in the city. Loved all the different plates and flavours. A bit noisy, but it’s all part of the vibe. Service is great.
   

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10. D

    David VIP

    Toronto11 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on May 6, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5

    One our favourites, outstanding as always! Thank you team!
    

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