RATION AT HOME

These days, Stephen and I order take-out at least once a week. As much as we have our favourite spots, it has become a struggle to decide what to order when options in our neighbourhood are limited and with Stephen being a great cook. Eating out was starting to lose its lustre until this weekend when we were spoiled with a 5 course tasting menu by Chef Jef Edwards from Ration at Home. The meal reminded me of everything I love about dining out and how much I miss Toronto restaurants.

Disclaimer: All food and drinks reviewed below were provided complimentary. All opinions expressed below are wholly mine.

Our five course menu for two was delivered in two bags, one hot and one cold, with a note at the top to put the gelato in the freezer. Each dish was packaged individually with sauces separate and detailed plating instructions were included. Even in takeout form, it was clear each dish was packed and delivered with care and attention. The burrata was beautiful and not a grain was out of place in the risotto. The meal was designed to be served family style, but could easily be divided into courses with the Duck Tartare and Burrata as appetizers and Risotto and Confit Duck as entrees.

I was so excited to see tartare and burrata, two of my favourite dishes that I haven’t had in over a year, on the menu. The duck tartare was served with raw endive leaves that had a slight bitter taste, which paired nicely with the savoury duck. The seasoning of the tartare was on the milder side for me, but the quality of ingredients really shone through. Oh my the burrata, *chef’s kiss*. Served on a bed of greens with pickled green tomatoes, and drizzled with an herb oil and olive oil vinaigrette, every bite was heavenly. There was the creaminess of the burrata, crunch from the tomatoes and richness of the olive oil. Stephen and I devoured this dish, what lactose intolerance?

Alivia’s favourite non dessert dish was the duck confit, and there was plenty to share between the three of us. Crispy skin and sweet relish rounded out the tender duck leg. Between the burrata and the relish, the slices of sourdough bread were well taken care of. Stephen’s favourite dish was the creamy spring pea and samphire risotto. While there was the occasional crunch, the flavours and seasoning were superb with the seasonal ingredients.

Dessert was a smoked chocolate tart with truffle honey and vanilla gelato. I loved how the smoke flavour of the chocolate and the earthiness of the truffled honey was mellowed by the vanilla gelato. Again, such strong flavours, in balance with each other.

Overall, Ration at home was such a treat. A reminder for my taste buds of being blown away by combinations of flavours and textures, the delight of enjoying a fine crafted meal, with enough leftovers for the next day. To order Ration at Home for pick up or delivery, visit https://www.exploretock.com/rationathome.