While 2008 is living up to its promise asthe year of the rat, 2007 might be remembered for the emergence of a number of star chefs on the Toronto restaurant scene. Sure,Scot WoodsandClaudio Aprilewere already well known for their previous stints asSen5esandHabitat, but the opening of their new restaurants (LucienandColborne Lanerespectively) just blocks from each other nearSt. Lawrence Marketsolidified their standing as local superstars and helped usher in the latest craze that ismolecular gastronomy.

但在泡沫之外,慕斯和液态氮,new Toronto restaurants last year covered a range of cuisines, textures and serving sizes. Tapas and small plates were definitely in, as were local, organic and seasonal themes. But at the top of our list (as voted by readers of blogTO) for the Best New Restaurant of 2007 (meals over $15) was the moderately priced, friendly serviced and skilled cooking that isRiverside'sCitizen.

Following on the success of Queen West'sThe Rosebud, owner and chef Rod Bowers' Citizen helped solidify the neighbourhood's claim that great dining has arrived on the East side.