Piano Piano

Located in the heart of Harbord Village, Piano Piano occupies the space formerly held by the legendary Splendido. Chef Victor Barry transformed this storied room into a vibrant, whimsical Italian eatery that feels both sophisticated and refreshingly unpretentious. The interior, designed with a playful eye, sets the stage for a dining experience that is deeply soulful and intentionally fun. It is the kind of neighbourhood spot that manages to feel like a special occasion destination without the stuffiness, making it a reliable choice for everything from a lively date night to a celebratory family dinner. The atmosphere is consistently warm, welcoming, and buzzing with energy, reflecting the Italian philosophy of 'piano piano va lontano'—slowly, slowly we go further.

For a first-timer, the Caesar salad is non-negotiable; it is an elevated, avant-garde take on the classic that pays homage to the site's history. Follow it up with one of their signature wood-fired pizzas, which feature a perfectly blistered, chewy sourdough crust, or dive into the rich, comforting pastas like the mushroom cavatelli. The menu is consistently 'tasty & f*#king delicious,' offering generous portions that satisfy without feeling overly precious. Prices sit in the mid-to-high range, reflecting the quality of ingredients. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend dinner service, as this remains a popular local staple. While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, booking ahead ensures you won't be left waiting.