Modern Dining: Sky Flower
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With the state of the world, nearly all local businesses have been affected, with the restaurant world experiencing some of the toughest repercussions. They’ve had to find innovative ways to stay afloat, including pop-up versions.
Located on College street, a touch west of Spadina, is a new pop-up dining experience called Sky Flower, which boasts a “vista view” patio and a menu designed by Master Chef Eric Chong.
On a temperate early September evening, I headed east from Mississauga to pick up my dinner companion, Kathryn, and somehow landed a parking spot steps from the front door.
Was it good timing? Perhaps. Or maybe the 2020 Porsche Macan we drove in channeled its inner Knight Rider to secure the sweet spot.
A friendly Sky Flower team member was waiting outside to take our temperature prior to entry and directed us up a flight of stairs to our next checkpoint; the hostess station.
From there, we had a double check of our reservation, was informed of where the restrooms were, and were walked to the rooftop patio and shown our seats.
Fun fact; I’ve got long legs and shorter-than-average torso, so I lose a few inches when sitting down. Kathryn slid onto the bench-seat side and I took the chair. While we’re the same standing height, you’d think there was a significant height difference if you glanced at our table.
There was a perimeter speaker behind our table that led to our conversation volume being higher than normal. If you’d rather a quieter table, there’s plenty available. Or request one during the easy reservation process.
With 82 seats available, they’ve incorporated a safe distance between tables without sacrificing an enticing atmosphere.
You’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the CN Tower, along with the buildings that bookend it
Our reservation was for 8:00 and if we went again, I’d make it for 45 minutes earlier to catch the transition from day to night.
A floral theme that’s accented with strand lighting creates warmth in an evening setting.
Our server, Emily, was engaging and aligning with the new normal, spoke slowly and clearly through her mask while making extra eye contact with both of us.
We started with matching cute drinks, aptly named the SkyFlower that’s rooted in vodka, Makrut lime syrup, cucumber and basil complete with edible flowers.
The menu consists of “bold Asian inspired flavours of Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese and Thai in the form of convenient BBQ comfort foods” as per their website.
Oddly and a bit on the antiquated side, you’re encouraged to scan a QR code to access the menu.
Alternatively, jump to their website prior or during your visit for menu access.
In a relatively easy set of decisions, we opted to share three menu items, which were Vietnamese Lettuce Wraps, Satay Lamb Spiducci and the Kalbi Beef Tacos.
Portion sizes and quantities were ideal for sharing, nothing was overly messy to eat, although eating tacos can often be a matter of finding the proper angle to tilt your head, with this being no exception.
The lamb was my standout winner of the three and while that doesn’t discount the others, it had the most flavour. Remember, each palate is unique so if you disagree, let me know in the comments.
Bonus points awarded for some menu items that are able to be modified into a vegan offering.
To cap our meal and keep the sharing train in motion, we picked up both dessert options; house made Thai Iced Tea ice cream and Pineapple Passion fruit sorbet.
Both were enjoyable, came in two scoops, and both bowls were taken away empty.
The Sky Flower is open for a limited time until Mother Nature decides we’ve had enough of warm weather.
To make your reservation, check out operating hours and peruse the menu, visit: theskyflower.com
