Ciao, fellow food lovers! 🍝✨ There’s something undeniably comforting about handmade Italian food—the rich sauces, fresh pasta, and bold flavors that instantly transport you to a rustic trattoria in Italy. That’s exactly what I experienced at Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar in Toronto (Front Street), a lively and welcoming spot that takes traditional Italian recipes and gives them a fresh, modern twist.
From house-made mozzarella and handcrafted pasta to bold wines and rich sauces, my meal at Scaddabush was a true celebration of Italian flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy dinner, a group gathering, or a casual date night, this is one Italian spot in Toronto you don’t want to miss.
The Atmosphere: Warm, Rustic & Inviting
Walking into Scaddabush, you’re immediately greeted by the aroma of simmering tomato sauce, freshly baked bread, and sizzling garlic. The ambiance is a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern energy, with wood-paneled walls, an open kitchen, and communal tables that encourage sharing and conversation.
The atmosphere is vibrant yet cozy, making it the ideal spot for a relaxed night out, a fun group gathering, or an indulgent solo pasta date.
The Menu: Fresh, Handcrafted & Packed with Flavor
🧀 Fresh Mozzarella Bomba – The Ultimate Starter
One of the standout specialties at Scaddabush is their hand-stretched mozzarella, made fresh in-house every single day. Watching the process of fresh milk curds being transformed into silky mozzarella right before your eyes adds an extra layer of appreciation for the dish. I opted for the Mozzarella Bomba, a flavor-packed take on their classic fresh mozzarella, topped with spicy tomato bacon ragu, extra virgin olive oil, chili flakes, and fresh basil, served with fluffy focaccia.
The contrast between the creamy, mild mozzarella and the smoky, spicy ragu was absolutely divine. Every bite had a perfect balance of richness, heat, and freshness, and the warm, slightly crisp focaccia was the ideal vessel for soaking up every last bit of the sauce. If you love cheese, this dish is an absolute must!
🍋 Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti – A Bright, Savory Delight
For my pasta course, I decided to try something a little lighter yet still full of bold flavors—the Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti. The moment the dish arrived, I was greeted with the fragrant aroma of garlic and citrus, and I knew this was going to be a winner!
The sautéed shrimp were tender and perfectly cooked, nestled in a bed of al dente spaghetti coated in a pecorino alfredo sauce. The richness of the sauce was beautifully balanced by the brightness of the lemon sofrito, which gave the dish a light, zesty kick. The fried capers added a welcome crunch and a slight saltiness, while the baby spinach brought a hint of freshness to round out the flavors. Every forkful was silky, garlicky, and packed with vibrant citrus notes—an ideal choice if you’re craving a dish that’s indulgent yet not too heavy.
🍝 Rigatoni Bolognese – A Hearty & Indulgent Classic
For those who love a comforting, meaty pasta, the Rigatoni Bolognese is a must-try. The sauce was a hearty, slow-simmered blend of Angus beef, sausage, and smoked bacon, infused with the deep richness of San Marzano tomatoes and a touch of cream to soften the acidity. The rigatoni held the sauce beautifully, with each bite offering a perfect balance of smoky, meaty depth and velvety smoothness.
Topping it all off was a generous dollop of seasoned whipped ricotta, which melted into the warm pasta, adding an extra layer of indulgence. A drizzle of basil oil and fresh basil leaves brightened up the dish, keeping it from feeling too heavy. This was comfort food at its finest—rich, warming, and packed with bold Italian flavors.
🍷 The Perfect Pairing – Chianti Red Wine
No Italian meal is complete without a great glass of wine, and the Chianti red wine I enjoyed was the perfect pairing for my meal. With bold, dry, and slightly fruity notes, it complemented the richness of the pasta and the creaminess of the mozzarella beautifully. Each sip enhanced the flavors of the meal, making the experience feel even more indulgent.
Why Scaddabush Toronto (Front Street) is a Must-Visit
✨ Handcrafted Italian food that honors tradition while adding a modern twist.
✨ A lively, welcoming atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a celebration.
✨ Signature mozzarella made fresh daily, making it a cheese-lover’s paradise!
✨ A fantastic wine selection that pairs perfectly with the rich, indulgent flavors.
✨ Great for casual nights out, special occasions, and everything in between.
Final Thoughts: A Taste of Italy in the Heart of Toronto
Would I return to Scaddabush? In a heartbeat. From the creamy, indulgent mozzarella to the perfectly cooked pasta and well-balanced flavors, this was a dining experience that felt like a warm Italian hug. Whether you’re craving hearty comfort food, fresh ingredients, or just a great place to sip wine and unwind, Scaddabush delivers.
Until the next adventure, keep eating well and living fully! 🍝✨
xoxo,
Bubbly 💖
