Alebrije

What is Alebrije? Located along the charming dining strip at 119 Harbord Street in Harbord Village, Alebrije is an upscale Mexican concept from chef Adam Ryan and the team behind Michelin-recognized Azura. The dining room balances mood and color with charcoal-toned walls, plush banquettes, exposed brick, and bespoke fantastical sculptures by Mexican artist Alejandro Van Munster. Guests can settle into the intimate dining room, pull up a stool at the sleek cocktail bar, or dine on the sunny southwest-facing patio in summer.

Alebrije Menu & What to Order Ryan filters regional Mexican recipes through a seasonal Ontario lens, leveraging fermentation, smoking, and Ontario produce. Start with charred Brussels sprouts tossed in maple, spicy pork, and guajillo oil, or the creative Ontario spaghetti squash cochinita brightened with pickled hops and sea buckthorn pico. The slow-braised birria beef short rib paired with a poblano tamale and fermented cabbage slaw is the standout centerpiece. Pair the meal with curated agave spirits or an inventive seasonal margarita flight.

Know Before You Go Tables book quickly on prime weekend slots, though walk-ins can often find room at the bar counter for drinks and small plates. Street parking along Harbord Street is sparse, making the 506 Carlton streetcar or a stroll from Spadina subway station the most hassle-free route. The kitchen serves dinner from Tuesday through Saturday, remaining closed Sundays and Mondays.