By: Lisa Naccarato
DaNico's unique dining room, housed in an historic bank building in the heart of Toronto. (Photos courtesy Liberty Entertainment Group)
Canada's world class dining capital, has expanded its culinary empire with a new Michelin-inspired dining experience. Toronto's famed Liberty Entertainment Group has unveiled its latest venture, DaNico. This exquisite fine dining destination, housed in a renovated heritage bank building at 440 College St. in downtown Toronto, promises to redefine culinary excellence. In partnership with Nick Di Donato of Liberty Group, multi-starred chef Ernesto Iaccarino of the Don Alfonso 1890 Group, and executive chef Daniele Corona, DaNico showcases Corona's unique and award winning gastronomic style.
Renowned for his modern Italian culinary mastery, Executive Chef Daniele Corona, has crafted a menu that blends Italian tradition with modern Asian influences, emphasizing the use of local and sustainable Canadian ingredients. As guests step into the intimate 60-seat restaurant, they are greeted with an elegant yet edgy space that feels both posh and comfortable.
Custom cocktails or vintage Champagne are found at the sleek bar, leading to a multicourse prix fixe or a la carte menu of exceptional cuisine. Each course is expertly paired with signature cocktails and an extensive wine selection housed in the original bank vault, boasting over 3,000 bottles. At the bar and table side is where DaNico's exceptional staff shine. The service is impeccable, guest needs are anticipated with an ease and professionalism that enhances the dining experience.
DaNico's eight-course signature tasting menu showcases Chef Corona's artistry, expertly combining premium ingredients presented on unique serving vessels. "Opening DaNico is truly my dream realized," said executive chef Daniele Corona. "The concept embodies my culinary journey—from Italy, under the mentorship of the Iaccarinos in the Amalfi Coast, to what inspires my cooking today. Here, I can create my own interpretation of internationally inspired, award-winning cuisine. I am both proud and honored to welcome my esteemed guests to share my vision unveiled."
Chef Corona at work (Photo: L. Naccarato)
For Nick Di Donato, President, and CEO of Liberty Entertainment Group, DaNico is another chance to create superior experiences. "Since receiving our star, there is significantly more motivation to keep raising the bar for our restaurant projects. With the opening of our second Michelin-style fine dining restaurant, DaNico, we are more determined than ever in elevating Toronto’s fine-dining community and hospitality scene to be recognized amongst the absolute best in the world. We believe DaNico is the pinnacle of Toronto’s dining scene, now on the global stage."
DaNico's unique and compelling design, was created by Liberty Group's VP and awarding winning creative director Nadia Di Donato. Her work was recognized as the Best Design Restaurant- the Americas for the company's Michelin-starred property, Don Alfonso 1890 Toronto in the Westin Harbour Castle. Nadia Di Donato explained, "We believe the ultimate restaurant experience should be all-encompassing—the setting, the design, the art, the lighting, all are paramount, and the ambiance must be best-in-class to enhance Chef’s vision."
DaNico's historic space, with its thirty-foot ceilings, open kitchen, Chef’s table and intimate banquettes exudes opulence with lavish Italian mohair velvets, brocades, English leather, Versace ceramics, crystal, and warm woods. Every detail, piece of furniture, and curated artwork, including pieces by Canadian artists Max Jamali and Peter Triantos, as well as Salvador Dali contributes to an immersive setting for an unforgettable dining experience.
DaNico is set to become a culinary landmark in Toronto, where art and design meet exceptional cuisine to create a remarkable dining experience.