Grano, in Italian means grain, and Grano restaurant, among other Italian specialties, is noted for its bread. The front of this very unpretentious restaurant is a bakery where patrons can purchase all of the bread made fresh on the premises.

Roberto Martella, the owner, is not only a great restaurateur but a great promoter of the political and artistic communities of Toronto. One Saturday afternoon in 2004, Martella brought together the two founders of Luminato over a lunch of pasta, calamari and wine. The two were able to meld and combine their ideas for a multicultural arts festival. They continued to work and follow through with its development until Luminato was first presented in 2007.

Fashioned after a rustic Italian village eatery this eclectic eatery greets patrons with a selection of opera music and a warm welcome from at least one member of the Martella family. There are three outdoor dining areas, including one with a fountain,

and ample space inside for cozy dining.

The most popular menu item of this trendy, casual dining establishment is the antipasto bar. Featuring such Italian delicacies as squid, octopus, grilled chicken, gorgonzola cheese and pesto mushroom caps, marinated vegetables and veal, this antipasti is a meal unto itself. There is also a huge Italian wine list.

The restaurant caters to the neighborhood regulars along with many of the local politians and artists. The Grano Speakers Series was established as a modern-day salon or intimate gathering of business, government and academic leaders. Grano’s intimate atmosphere provides a perfect combination of informal dining with an energetic atmosphere for debate and discussion. These events are by invitation only and have become so popular that Roberto Martella says, “I am glad that I am the proprietor or I might not get an invitation.”

Relatively new are the "Learn Italian Monday Nights". Patrons who arrive at either 6:00 or 8:00 p.m. are able to participate in Italian lessons.

All in all, this is a delightful restaurant where one can dine in the splendors of Italian Renaissance art and architecture.

Location: 2035 Yonge St. Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Tel: 416-440-1986
Web: www.grano.ca