When I was in my twenties, we had a birthday tradition – pulling a few pints at The Bier Markt, a downtown Toronto Belgian-inspired Brasserie. With over 100 beers from around the world to sample, great friends and good eats, what could be better?
A location in the west end of the city, I suppose.
You can say I whooped for joy when I heard that The Bier Markt was opening in Etobicoke. Located conveniently across the street from Sherway Gardens, it’s got three things going for it: a) the best selection of beer this side of the QEW; b) ample, free parking; and c) an unparalleled dining experience thanks to the culinary magic created by Executive Chef Michael Cipollo.
The Bier Markt says: “Although the Bier Markt may have been previously best known for its exotic beers, in recent years and under Chef Cipollo’s direction, the Bier Markt has become equally well-known for its cuisine and unique seasonal-menus including the annual Fondue, Shellfish, and Wild Game. The Bier Markt’s upscale, European-inspired cuisine combined with its extensive list of beer and wine offerings have established it as one of the city’s most popular dining destinations.”
Here are some of my favourite moments from the Grand Opening Party –
Approaching the restaurant from the back, they’ve got nothing to hide. A full view of their kitchen and delicious creations within.
Where all the magic happens; temperature controlled, hoppy goodness.
Vegetarians: Avert your eyes. The pig didn’t feel a thing, I promise.
One of the stops on our “tour”, featuring vodka martinis that drink like juice.
Now THIS is what I call finger foods #nomnom
With the revered Chef Michael Cipollo. I’m only partially obscured by a leg of prosciutto.
Open-faced Croque Monsieur anyone? (I had two.)
Now you know I can’t say no to mussels from Brussels…
… Especially when they look like this. Mmmm.
My favourite part of the night; sampling the delectable seafood.
Pop by The Bier Market Queensway for the best in beer… chances are, you’ll catch me swinging back a bottle of Krombacher. Sante!
Looks like a great place! I love visiting different pubs, especially when they offer amazing food. My favourite in Victoria is an Irish pub called Irish Times – especially when they have live music to accompany the food and drink!
LOVE Irish Pubs – my favourite places to spend a Friday night :)
Nice! i love a beer and Fondue!! Can’t wait to visit!!
The food is SO good, Allie! You’ll love it!
i’m going this friday after work! who’s in??!?
AH!! I’ve got an event on Friday – rain check please???
Sounds good! When i made my res, the hostess was kind enough to inform me of the Oktoberfest event they have planned that night – an honest to goodness pig roast like the one in your pictures! Now I just can’t wait for the end of the week!!!
AMAZING! The food is scrumptious, you’ll have so much fun!!!
Looks like a fun place to go, wish we had places like that!
You’ll have to visit next time you’re in Toronto Huguette!
Oh my! That looks like a SWEET place to spend an evening.
Everyone in my family has great affection for food and good beer. If I’m ever in Ontario I’ll look for it.
If you’re ever in Moncton you should go to The Pumphouse Brewery or the Barnyard BBQ. It’s a micro-brewery with a restaurant. Not as cool as that, but still worth it.
DULY NOTED! Thanks so much for the tip, Nicoline!
You look beautiful, darling, but I’m sorry, I was distracted by the prosciutto…
Hahaha you would be!!! I’ll forgive you darling :)
I miss going to places where toddlers cannot follow! ; )
Ah yes, it was BLISS being without the little guys! Sadly, was only there for about an hour before I came back to reality :)
awesome can’t wait to try it out. drove past the other night before it was open!
It’s open now!! GO! You’ll love it :)
what’s the vibe like? is there dancing or is it more of a resto/ bar?
Looks like a fun place, I’m not sure if it’s the best choice for families living on a budget and home cooked meals are much healthier. Eating out it’s expensive.
Sorry I cant check this out – being on the other side of the country! But I agree pubs are the best. Combine casual atmosphere ( jeans:D ) with amazing food and unique adult bevies and you cant go wrong. My local has the best pulled pork nachos and microbrew beer tasting paddles anywhere.
Glad you had a short but good time.
Omgosh it all looks fantastic! Martinis that drink like juice……….great phrase and I’d love to try one!
I didn’t even know that there was a Bier Market in the west end. Now I have to visit when I’m there!
I bet the food was delicious but I don’t like to see the pig on display because it’s to gory for me