Gio Rana’s Really, Really Nice Restaurant

Inside Gio Rana’s — much funkier than you would expect from its non descript exterior.

My fashionistah bestie C was celebrating a milestone birthday and she requested that we venture east to her neck of the woods.  Being completely clueless on restos in this quadrant of the city, she suggested her fave Gio Rana’s Really Really Nice Restaurant (1220 Queen St. East).  This is a long standing hidden gem in Leslieville, marked by a giant nose housed in a former bank.  It was a wonderful choice for its eclectic décor, lively ambience (Lenny Kravitz, Biggie, oh yeah) and most of all its excellent Italian food.  We tried a number of appetizers to share – the risotto balls, brussel sprouts with prosciutto and crustini.  My entrée was a nicely prepared salmon with a side of rapini.  We finished with a birthday platter of chocolate molten cake, tiramisu and goat’s milk cheesecake.  Sooo delicious! 

No need for the address. Just stop when you see that massive paper mache nose on Queen East.

You can never go wrong with an Anthropologie statement necklace. My life!

I lovex3 buying birthday presents for my girlfriends, especially clothes.  I know it sounds really weird but I love dressing my friends.  They say that I’m the only person that still buys them clothes as gifts.  But I am pretty spot-on when it comes to making sure my gift choices match their styles.  Dress you up in my love.  Trust.

Dorothy Perkins is a London-based brand. Lovely damask and abstract lace prints in a fit and flare. Super flattering silhouette.