La Plume

La Plume brings southern French cooking to Toronto's Wellington Street West, offering a lighter alternative to the butter-heavy bistro fare found elsewhere in the city. The restaurant focuses on the simpler, more vibrant flavors of the French Mediterranean, where culinary traditions blur the line between French and Italian. It's an approach that appeals to diners who love both cuisines and want something fresher than traditional rich French preparations.

The name, meaning "the feather," captures the whimsical, breezy spirit of the menu. The signature rotisserie chicken anchors the offerings, while tartares arrive with an impressive spread of grilled baguette, taro chips, potato chips, and house-pickled vegetables. The beverage program follows the same southern French aesthetic with fresh, citrusy cocktails full of bubbles, a primarily French wine list featuring old-world style selections, and easy-drinking beers from local breweries like Henderson and Lost Craft.

Recent diners have noted clear improvements in both food and service quality, with one guest praising the warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive servers who made the experience smooth and enjoyable. While some visitors mention that service can run a bit slow during busy periods, the overall experience delivers on its promise of a dreamy, Mediterranean-influenced escape that stands apart from heavier French options in the neighborhood.