Pre-theatre treat
Located at the corner of Richmond and University, Forte prides itself on an ability to fuse bistro classics with global influences and modern flourishes. Lunch and dinner are only served between certain hours, so be sure to plan ahead before dropping by for a meal. The lunch menu includes soups and salads like the Moroccan spiced zucchini soup with minted yogurt, and the frisee salad. This light starter is made with grilled avocado, cherry tomatoes, grilled Berkshire pork and a bistro-exclusive apple mustard vinaigrette. Even a classic like foie gras gets the Forte touch when it’s served alongside rhubarb and armagnac jelly.

Noon-hour noshing
For lunch, choose from a trio of pastas or go for a sandwich. Forte offers grilled paninis, a lobster sandwich, and a wine-braised beef sandwich topped with sautéed mushrooms and smoked cheddar. If a simple sandwich is no match for your midday appetite, try the coq au vin with honeyed mushrooms and mustard spaetzle, or the organic salmon. In addition to their regular menu, Forte maintains a rotating list of daily specials including slow-cooked rabbit with soft ricotta polenta. Another weekly special? Jazz vocalist Kira Callahan performs every Wednesday night from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Prix-fixe parking
Dinner options expand on soups and salads, as well as mains. The blanquette de veau is braised in white wine and served with porcini mushrooms and truffle cream sauce. Afterwards, indulge your sweet tooth with a selection from the dessert menu. The orange butterscotch tart is served with Earl Grey ice cream and the white chocolate pomegranate gateau is incredible. If you’re among the many planning to book a bite at Forte before catching a play on King Street West, ask about the bistro’s prix fixe package. This $30 deal gets you a starter, a main and free evening parking at the nearby Hilton hotel. Pop by again after the play for drinks. Forte lounge offers snacks, cocktails and an extensive wine list that can be purchased by the glass or bottle.