Lighting up the Box with Luma

Four days after Luma officially opened at the TIFF Bell Lightbox, I was lucky enough to score a reservation for my friend Ramos‘ birthday. This was at the height of the TIFF, and the building was buzzing with visitors, film buffs, volunteers and a couple celebrities. Since it’d only been open a few days and operating on a limited dinner menu, it’s unfair to judge the restaurant before it’s had time to settle. So instead I’ll share my experience in photos. Up first is the Ricotta Gnocchi ($17) that sits daintily in a light tomato fondue with basil, artichoke and roasted garlic.

The interior features soaring ceilings and the upscale contemporary decor is definitely fit for Hollywood wheeling and dealing. As you can see from the above photo taken at the back of the restaurant, illumination and lightbulbs play an important role in the interior’s design.

We started with the deliciously garlicky Caesar Salad ($10), topped with double-smoked bacon, a white anchovy, black pepper croutons and half a quail’s egg.

Next up was a plate of thinly sliced Scallop Sashimi ($13), surrounded by celery leaves, herbs, radish and ginger vinaigrette.

The birthday boy enjoyed the Grilled Beef Tenderloin ($36), with braised beef cheeks, crispy potato, celery, watercress and truffle jus.

I was blown away by my plate of Ricotta Gnocchi, it was the fluffiest gnocchi I’d ever tasted. Based on everything we tried, I can’t wait to visit again to taste Chef Jason Bangerter’s full menu.

Luma / 330 King St. West, Toronto
647 288 4715 / Hours: Mon-Sun Lunch: 11:30am-3:00pm, Dinner: 5:00pm-11:00pm