Madrina, Spanish for godmother, is Toronto’s newest restaurant in the Distillery District.
From the same folks behind El Catrin and Cluny, the Catalan tapas bar is helmed by Executive Chef Ramon Simarro, and features a mix of traditional Iberian fare along with modern dishes inspired by Ferran Adrià.
Designed by Studio Munge and built-out by Build It By Design, the space breaths new life into the former Tappo Wine Bar and features rustic design features including geometric-patterned floors, arched oak doorways, and artworks from Mattea Perrotta.
More traditional offerings include mussels escabeche, pintxos Gilda, bite-sized skewers threaded with anchovies, olives, and peppers, and a patatas bravas layered up like a millefeuille.
Drinks-wise, there’s Cava, vermouth, and a quartet of gin and tonics on the menu. More importantly, just in time to satisfy summertime cravings, there’s sangria available by the pitcher or in giant globe wine glasses.
Despite showcasing the menu at a media preview earlier this week, the restaurant is awaiting the completion of its patio before opening to the public. Torontonians can look forward to dining on tapas as of July 11.