What is Alioli? The names mean "garlic and oil" in Catalan and Provençal. It is found in the cuisines of the Mediterranean coasts of Spain, France and Italy, as well as Malta. 

 But what really is Alioli’s, it’s foolproof. Let’s put it this way, need to entertain clients, or a first date, Alioli’s. Want to make someone at home something special but don’t know how to cook, Alioli’s. How about…undecided on New Year’s location, Alioli’s. Oh how I am waiting to go back inside when they have live entertainment, a pianist or keyboard player/singer. A wonderful vibe. Did we mention the Living Arts Centre is just across the street? Alioli’s is an excellent venue for a pre-show meal and they will get you out on time. Perhaps, you might even be as lucky us, when we went there because we were seeing Robert Michaels at LAC. He is one of the best flamenco guitarists in the world as far as I’m concerned. Their whole band was there eating prior to the show, and what ends up happening we join them on stage during their encore. What a laugh, what a great time, especially since my wife was in her late stages of pregnancy with our gorgeous son. 

 They have been doing takeout, long before Covid even if they didn’t publicize it. Just call them up and they prepare a terrific meal to take home, to put on the dining room table. During Covid, we did Mother’s Day takeout – this was the first weekend that they re-opened. It was chaotic on arrival, to be expected during these crazy times, but everything that was ordered was in the bag, hot and delicious when it hit the table. 

 I’ve been a long-time fan of their Ravioli di Funghi (Mushroom), at one time they took it off the menu but when I went in, they somehow had an order. It’s back, properly because of popular demand. When it comes to risotto, they do this exceptionally well and there is always variety. I can say I don’t vary much on what I order here, because I really like these specific dishes but if I do it’s more than likely the Osso Buco. 

 Something you would expect from an Italian restaurant is a very good wine selection. Tonight, after trying a few samples of wine, we have decided on a bottle instead of glasses. Our waiter has introduced us to a California Merlot made by Cannonball. I must say this was perfect. For those interested, I had a tough time finding this in the LCBO but eventually found it in the vintage section and it ran about $24. 

 What was wonderful about tonight’s meal was a return to the restaurant eating. In fact, this was day one of the re-opening of patios and right up to that day we weren’t sure that they were going to be allowed open. Thankfully they did, and they didn’t miss a beat. You could tell everyone was excited to be back, staff and customers. What a wonderful night, lots of laughter and enjoyment everywhere and a special thanks to the corner table, who treated at least three tables with a shot per patron. 

 The patio is very well lit, comfortable, heated but not required tonight. The view of the Mississauga ever growing skyline of condos is something sweet. Which tells me Aliol’s will be a gold mine into the future, however they might want to start thinking of a possible expansion with so many coming into this area. It would be a shame if this becomes a tough ticket to get into but I can see it happening as Alioli’s is one top level restaurant.

 -BEAR