Seemor
Indian Desire TorontoA-Worth Trying
469 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1X9, Canada
· Indian restaurant, Caterer, Halal restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1591 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Modern Indian spot in The Annex delivering bold flavors and polished hospitality; creative touches shine, prices skew high but portions are generally generous.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Indian Desire delivers exceptional food quality with signature dishes like butter chicken and Changezi chicken earning consistent praise, paired with warm, attentive service and thoughtful owner presence. Occasional consistency variations in portions and a few food safety reports prevent grade A territory, though the modern Indian approach, polished plating and design, and strong loyalty indicate a well-executed neighborhood destination worth seeking out.
Restaurant Summary
On Bloor in The Annex, Indian Desire feels warm and inviting with polished service and personal touches from management. Reviewers describe attentive servers and stylish plating, with one noting, "the team guided our choices and checked in often." The room stays lively but comfortable, suited for dates and relaxed dinners. In the kitchen, it is modern Indian with creative twists rather than museum-traditional. Butter chicken and Changezi chicken win repeat praise, while tangy cauliflower and pudina paneer tikka show the playful side. Expect balanced spice, thoughtful presentation, and a few fusion flourishes like zaatar naan that regulars now seek out. Prices are on the higher side, but many find portions generous and the experience worth the splurge. Families do fine here: there is a small kids section (cheese balls, potato wedges) and plenty of mild mains and breads. Garlic or butter naan with a mild curry, palak paneer, or dal are easy wins, though very picky eaters may prefer simpler plates from the lunch or kids options.
At a Glance
- Flavor-forward modern Indian with standout butter chicken and Changezi
- Attentive, welcoming service with owner presence
- Strong vegetarian and vegan selection with clear labeling
- Prices above casual Indian; breads and rice are add-ons
- Occasional inconsistency in delivery portions and a few safety complaints
What Sets It Apart
- creative_chaats_and_naans
- owner_table_touches
- robust_veg_and_vegan_menu
What People Love
- Rich, well-balanced curries that reheat beautifully
- Playful small plates and crisp cauliflower
- Staff who guide choices and adjust spice
- Comfortable booths and stylish presentation
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (C$20+ mains; breads extra) which may surprise casual diners
- Delivery and takeout portions occasionally feel small compared to dine-in
- A few isolated reports of food safety or quality lapses among mostly positive experiences
- Some diners find certain dishes under-spiced or too safe for traditionalists
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostC$45-62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Vegetarians: Palak Paneer or Kofta Nazakat with Lasooni Palak to share
- Heat-seekers: Chicken Changezi or Vindaloo; request higher spice
- Light lunch: Channa Bhatura or Rice Bowl (C$13.95-C$15.95)
Perfect For
- Date night with Indian flavors and modern polish
- Group dinner where vegetarians need great options
- Pre-show meal near Bloor cultural spots
- Casual celebration with shareable starters
Location Insights
Area: Lively university-adjacent strip with students and locals, casual to polished venues, late-night foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, busy and well lit; typical downtown bustle with occasional late-night noise.
Nearby: Near U of T, bookstores, bars, and cultural venues; strong pedestrian flow along Bloor Street.
The AnnexThe Annex is a lively, culturally rich neighborhood with a strong intellectual vibe due to its proximity to the University of Toronto. It offers a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, attracting a mix of locals and visitors who appreciate eclectic and international cuisines.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:30
Tuesday11:30–22:30
Wednesday11:30–22:30
Thursday11:30–22:30
Friday11:30–00:00
Saturday11:30–00:00
Sunday11:30–22:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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