Seemor
Restaurant Ricky+OliviaAMust Try
996 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1K1, Canada
· Restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (292 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
A creative, hospitality-driven Leslieville spot delivering playful, Ontario-focused plates with standout service; great for dates and celebrations if you enjoy bold, nostalgic twists.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Ricky+Olivia exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional food quality anchored by standout dishes like steak tartare and carrot with bay leaf ice cream, paired with outstanding service attentiveness and owner-led hospitality. Distinctive design and knowledgeable wine guidance elevate the experience, though occasional consistency notes on seasoning prevent higher distinction. This is a destination-worthy restaurant that ranks among the region's finest contemporary dining establishments.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and buzzing, with a quirky, lounge-to-kitchen flow that lets you watch plates land while staff narrate the fun. One diner summed it up: "It felt like dinner at a cool friend’s place, just with better wine and pacing." Owners often appear tableside, and the vibe is casual but polished enough for a celebration. In the kitchen, the cooking leans playful and produce-driven: Big Mac-style tartare with fried saltines, PB-and-J vibes in the chicken liver mousse, and the now-famous carrot with bay leaf ice cream. Expect cross-cultural flavors—tahini, dukkah, char siu glazes—expressed through Ontario ingredients. If you enjoy bold ideas and nostalgic winks more than tradition, you will feel right at home. Families can make this work thanks to comfort anchors like the burger and fries, but much of the menu skews adventurous. Picky eaters may prefer simpler picks, while teens and curious kids might love the playful desserts. No explicit kids menu noted.
At a Glance
- Vibrant owner-led hospitality with knowledgeable servers
- Creative Ontario-focused menu with nostalgic twists
- Strong burger, tartare, and carrot + ice cream standouts
- Some dishes read sweet or heavy for certain palates
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- owner_present_service
- nostalgic_fusion_dishes
- ontario_only_wine_program
- open_kitchen_experience
What People Love
- Personal, welcoming service from owners and team
- Playful reimagining of classics
- Ontario-only wine and thoughtful pairings
- Open-kitchen energy and stylish, quirky rooms
- Signature dishes that spark conversation
Points of Concern
- A minority find several dishes overly sweet or rich; choose lighter options if sensitive to sweetness
- Noise and bustle near the kitchen at peak times
- Limited vegetarian depth; plan ordering for plant-forward needs
- Review patterns show signs of consistent enthusiasm; sample remains largely credible
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostC$62-86 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a balanced share: one bright salad (C$18), one signature starter (C$20-28), one burger (C$22), one fish or pork (C$40-44), and dessert (C$21).
- If sweetness-sensitive, ask for server guidance toward more savory-leaning picks and sauces on side.
Perfect For
- Date nights with a playful twist
- Celebration dinners with friends
- Wine-focused evenings with shared plates
- Adventurous diners seeking creative fusion
Location Insights
Area: Lively, creative east-end strip with indie shops, bars, and neighborhood dining; attracts date nights and local regulars.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked corridor with steady evening footfall; typical urban vigilance applies.
Nearby: Near boutique retail, cafes, small bars; short ride to Gerrard Chinatown and Greektown; transit along Queen St E.
The BeachesThe Beaches is characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, proximity to Lake Ontario, and a strong sense of community. The dining scene here includes casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and trendy spots that attract locals and visitors alike, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients and a welcoming environment.
Queen Street East CorridorThis stretch along Queen Street East is known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, artisanal food shops, and innovative restaurants. It offers a casual yet vibrant dining experience with a focus on local and sustainable cuisine, attracting a crowd that values quality and community connection.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday15:00–22:00
Wednesday15:00–22:00
Thursday15:00–22:00
Friday15:00–22:00
Saturday15:00–22:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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