Grey Gardens

Opened in 2017 by restaurateur Jen Agg, Grey Gardens brought a much-needed dose of polished, contemporary energy to the gritty, bohemian heart of Kensington Market. The space is a masterclass in casual sophistication, featuring a soft pastel palette, marble accents, and a mural of grey-toned foliage that feels both airy and intimate. It is fundamentally a wine bar that takes its food as seriously as its cellar, with a menu that leans heavily into fresh seafood, vibrant vegetable dishes, and expertly crafted house-made pastas. The atmosphere is boisterous and hip, making it a perfect spot for a lively date or a long, wine-fuelled catch-up with friends, while still maintaining the kind of confident charm that has earned it consistent recognition from the Michelin Guide.

For a first-timer, the strategy is simple: order a mix of snacks and small plates to share. You absolutely cannot skip the fresh oysters or the house-made pastas, which are consistently the stars of the menu. The wine list is the real draw here, focusing on private-order, low-intervention, and hard-to-find bottles that the knowledgeable staff are always happy to help you navigate. Prices are moderate for the quality, but expect to spend more if you dive deep into their impressive cellar. Reservations are highly recommended for the dining room or kitchen counter, though the bar is often held for walk-ins if you are feeling lucky. It is a seasonal, mercurial menu, so be prepared for the offerings to shift based on what is freshest at the market.