The exterior may be outlined in windows, but you will never experience the luxurious feeling you get until you enter the doors. Anthony Walsh was the driving force behind Leña’s name. It was named after his mother in-law, Elena and the menu is inspired by her South American heritage. What a thoughtful name for a historical venue!

Leña Restaurante is a breakfast and lunch favourite for downtown Toronto. This multi-story restaurant emphasizes the building’s original art deco details. From the floor ceiling, the details make this lunch break venue a work of art. Patterned tile, brass and marble surfaces extenuate the lively octagon bar in the center. This centerpiece was designed by Design Agency and constructed around an original heritage pillar, then dazzled with backlit etched glass and curved, teardrop-like pendants.

Surrounding the bar is are turquoise banquettes, and yellow and turquoise chairs for an exciting and light dining room. Around the back is the building’s original staircase with art deco motifs on the balusters and finished with a luxe, gold balustrade. The main floor leaves you inspired and in complete “awe!”

The downstairs bar, also known as Bar Lana which is the sister bar to Leña, is described as nothing less than art deco and luxe inspired. At the bottom of the grand staircase, is a more hushed bar for an evening setting and formal events. The ceiling has a cove lighting feature that outlines different dining areas around the bar. This is centered by a layered, circular chandelier. Drapes are also included to divide the dining area and make for a more intimate setting. Bold colours are still incorporated in the seating but instead have a velvet upholstery in yellow, red and blue. Peel-away edges at the top of the columns with gold finished edges are a unique touch to Bar Lana. The lower level is most suitable for socializing and enjoying the tasteful drinks.

Beyond the drapes is a hallway leading you to the washrooms. What you will find is that the washrooms are not divided by gender, rather each door leads you to a unisex water closet. The wallpaper throughout is seamless down the hall, uninterrupted by the doors. The walls and doors are covered in a jungle wallpaper mimicking the colours throughout the restaurant, including blue, red and a golden yellow. A herringbone floor tile directs your eye down the hallway, ending with a circular mirror on one end and a vignette on the other. This creates a vintage and lavish setting no matter where you are.