Wayne Gretzky’s Toronto Restaurant

The pregame Jays and Leafs fans and post-comedy-club crowd from Second City next door flock to Wayne Gretzky’s. When he’s in town, the eponymous hockey icon and owner can often be seen in the crowd. Downstairs there is literally a Gretzky museum offering die hard fans a look into the stars personal memorabilia collection. For those looking to watch a game over dinner, 40 flat-screen TVs (broadcasting all sports, not just hockey) provide ample opportunity.

After a few sips and nibbles on the Oasis Rooftop Patio dad and I headed downstairs to adventure through Gretzky’s pub style menu. We selected two of Wayne’s favourite bottles from his very own Estate collection: a crisp Pinot Grigio and moody Cabernet Merlot. Wayne collaborates with the viticulture team at Peller Estates in Niagara-on-the-Lake to produce his popular wine collection which is prominently featured on the restaurant’s wine list.

Over the course of the next hour we gobbled up some of the restaurants most popular dishes. Highlights include the top selling duck fat fried perogies courtesy of Wayne’s grandmother, The Great One Burger (featuring a branded 99 on the bun), Southern Fried Chicken smothered in sweet maple chicken gravy and a duo of sweets served in wee iron skillets. Nothing better than a cookie and a cobbler topped with vanilla ice cream to finish off a memorable summer feast..

The Feast:

Wayne Gretzky Estates Pinot Grigio

Wayne Gretzky Estates Series Cabernet Merlot

Perogies

duck fat fried cheddar and potato perogies, caramelized onions, double smoked bacon, sour cream

The Great One Burger

ground sirloin patty, sharp cheddar, double smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles on famous ’99’ bun with caesar salad

Braised Beef Short Rib Ravioli

mushroom broth, grilled oyster and cremini mushrooms, braised baby leeks, truffle oil

Southern Fried Chicken

buttermilk marinated chicken, mashed potatoes, asparagus, maple chicken gravy

Stonemill Cookie