It’s not every day that a dining experience leaves you breathless before the first bite—but that’s precisely the effect of Don Alfonso 1890. Perched on the 38th floor of Toronto’s Westin Harbour Castle, the restaurant offers a sensory journey that transcends cuisine, seamlessly marrying fine art, Mediterranean tradition, and one of the most spectacular panoramic views the city has to offer. Today, Don Alfonso 1890 adds another accolade to its repertoire: the 2025 BNS Best in Business Award for Best Waterfront Fine Dining Experience in Toronto.
This recognition, part of the annual BNS Best in Business List, honours businesses that demonstrate excellence and distinction in their field. In Don Alfonso 1890’s case, it is a tribute to a restaurant that has consistently delivered a world-class culinary experience while crafting an atmosphere that’s both visually and emotionally unforgettable.
A Heritage of Innovation
Don Alfonso 1890’s story begins in Sant’Agata, Italy, where the original restaurant was founded by the Iaccarino family in 1890. The Toronto location—brought to Canada by Liberty Entertainment Group in collaboration with the Iaccarino family—is the brand’s first North American outpost. Led by Chef Alfonso Iaccarino, whose namesake restaurant in Italy holds two Michelin stars, Don Alfonso Toronto has become a landmark of modern Mediterranean cuisine grounded in sustainable, ethical practices.
Chef Alfonso Iaccarino (Photo from the official Don Alfonso Toronto website)
Chef Iaccarino’s culinary philosophy is rooted in respect for nature, seasonality, and a farm-to-table approach. His menu at the Toronto location features ingredients that highlight the purity of Southern Italian fare, artfully reimagined with innovative techniques and global influences. Dishes are thoughtfully composed, not only to delight the palate but also to tell a story of tradition, land, and craftsmanship.
A Dining Experience That Captivates All the Senses
BNS Business Review Director Jasmine Kara shared her personal experience at Don Alfonso 1890, which played a key role in the award selection. As someone who prioritizes sustainable and plant-based cuisine, Kara found the restaurant to be not only inclusive but truly exceptional in its execution.
“The staff was incredibly attentive, making us feel genuinely welcomed and valued,” said Kara. “As a vegan and advocate for plant-based cuisine, I was particularly impressed by their eight-course vegan tasting menu. It was not only cruelty-free and sustainable but also visually stunning and unbelievably flavourful. The experience was elevated by the romantic, sweeping view of the Toronto Harbour, CN Tower, and planes descending over Lake Ontario. It was a celebration of taste, sustainability, and ambiance. We stayed for hours—it was unforgettable.”
Business Review Director, Jasmine Kara, enjoying the Don Alfonso 1980 8-course menu
It is this seamless integration of culinary mastery, impeccable hospitality, and striking ambiance that distinguishes Don Alfonso 1890 in a city filled with world-class dining options.
Customer Praise That Speaks Volumes
In addition to the direct impression upon the BNS review director, the restaurant’s reputation is fortified by over a thousand glowing testimonials, many of which describe Don Alfonso 1890 as the finest dining experience of their lives.
One guest, Walid Ibrahim, described every dish as “an art” and praised the staff for their attentiveness and grace. Lorenzo Rosas, who celebrated his anniversary at the restaurant, noted that “even our glasses of water wouldn't come close to empty” and shared that the chef himself came to offer personal well-wishes. Brittney Teuber called her birthday celebration there “the most memorable one of my life,” applauding not only the food but the service, decor, and small personal touches—such as a birthday card and keepsake gift.
A Destination with International Prestige
The accolades that Don Alfonso 1890 has amassed since its opening in Toronto reflect its status as one of the most distinguished dining destinations in the country—and indeed, globally. It has been recommended by the MICHELIN Guide, named to La Liste’s Top 10 Italian Restaurants in the World, awarded a 4-star rating by the Forbes Travel Guide, and consistently ranks among OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in Canada. It also holds the prestigious Three Glasses award from Gambero Rosso’s International Wine Guide, recognizing its exceptional wine program curated by expert sommeliers.
Business Review Director, Jasmine Kara, at Don Alfonso 1980
While the restaurant’s awards are numerous, what truly sets it apart is its capacity to create memorable, emotionally resonant dining experiences. Whether it’s a couple celebrating a milestone, a small group marking a special occasion, or a solo diner seeking inspiration, Don Alfonso 1890 offers more than just a meal—it delivers a story, an atmosphere, and a lasting impression.
A Vision That Transcends the Plate
Chef Iaccarino’s leadership and vision permeate every element of the Don Alfonso experience. His belief that cuisine should nourish the body, respect the planet, and bring people together is reflected in both the culinary and operational values of the Toronto location. From ethically sourced ingredients and avant-garde techniques to hospitality that is both gracious and anticipatory, Don Alfonso 1890 embodies what it means to lead by example in the fine dining industry.
As the recipient of the 2025 BNS Best in Business Award for Best Waterfront Fine Dining Experience in Toronto Don Alfonso 1890 is a rare intersection of culinary mastery, thoughtful design, and meaningful hospitality—raising the bar for fine dining in Toronto.
To explore the Don Alfonso 1890 experience or make a reservation, visit: www.donalfonsotoronto.com