Menu of Gio Rana's Really Really Nice in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Menu Overview

Gio Rana's Really Really Nice, nestled in the heart of Toronto on Queen St E, offers an authentic Italian dining experience that blends rustic charm with culinary finesse. This restaurant’s menu is a curated homage to Italy, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor crafted with care.

The menu shines brightest with its pasta offerings. The Pappardelle, vibrant with cremini mushrooms, thyme, toasted walnuts, and a subtle cream touch, stands out as a rich and earthy masterpiece. Its al dente texture complements the complex layers, drawing you deeply into the culinary narrative. The House-Made Potato Gnocchi, soft and pillowy, served with fresh basil tomato sauce, offers a delicate balance of flavors that feels both comforting and refined. Regulars praise this as a highlight, and it lives up to that acclaim.

The Giant Meatball and Tomato Ragu is a signature antipasti that no visitor should miss. Made from ground pork, the meatball is hearty and intensely flavorful, simmered lovingly in a robust tomato ragu that speaks of slow cooking and patience. It's a dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul, a sentiment echoed by many satisfied patrons.

For main courses, the Braised Veal Ossobuco emerges as a standout with its tender, fall-off-the-bone texture and deep, savory flavors. The rich marrow and braising liquid enrich each bite, offering a luxurious yet homey experience. Complement this with the vibrant Sautéed Rapini and the crisp, golden Tuscan Fries to round out the meal with fresh and crunchy contrasts.

Dessert at Gio Rana’s encapsulates classic Italian indulgence. The Classic House-Made Tiramisu delivers on every expectation—creamy mascarpone, bold espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a whisper of cocoa form a perfect crescendo to your meal.

The atmosphere is inviting—with enough space to feel cozy without being cramped—and the staff embodies warmth and attentiveness. Service is prompt yet unhurried, an important balance that enhances the dining experience. While the ambiance can get lively on weekend evenings, the noise level generally contributes to the vibrant energy rather than detracts from it.

Some minor considerations include the restaurant's policy of no substitutions or split bills, which may require some planning for larger groups. Additionally, while the pasta is mostly cooked to perfection, occasional slight undercooking with some dishes has been noted but does little to dim the overall excellent culinary quality.

In summary, Gio Rana’s Really Really Nice is a celebration of Italian gastronomy in Toronto. From the luxurious textures of the Ossobuco to the rustic charm of the Giant Meatball, and the rich simplicity of house-made pasta, this restaurant offers a menu that is both diverse and deeply satisfying. For those seeking an authentic taste of Italy coupled with friendly service and a cozy, lively environment, Gio Rana's is a choice that will leave a lasting impression.