Party like a Coppola at Lolita's Lust

Toronto is known as Hollywood North, thanks to all the TV and film productions shooting here (currently in production: Defiance, Hannibal, Hemlock Grover, Orphan Black, Reign, Rogue and The Strain, to mention just a few). What you might not know, however, is that many of them end not in Yorkville or on Queen West, but in the east end on the Danforth at amazingly unique spot, Lolita’s Lust.

This is where the stars gather and throw a party.  

A large part of the Coppola family – Francis, Sophia and Nicolas Cage – came for drinks one night and liked it so much, threw a bash the following evening. Iggy Pop stopped by. Regulars include Jim Cuddy, Blue Rodeo and members of The Tragically Hip. Hugh Dillon (whom you’ll know either from the band, Headstones, or from his screen time on Hard Core Logo, Flashpoint, The Killing and the new CBC drama, Camp X), stops in when he's in town. Jennifer Connelly and Samuel L. Jackson have been here. And many of the bands and performers in town for a gig at The Danforth Music Hall, come for dinner and drinks after the show. 

But you don’t have to be famous to party here. 

You have your choices of space. The Chinchilla Lounge, located upstairs, available for up to 40 for a sit-down dinner and up to 90 for cocktails. The red space comes complete with various seating areas – a bar and lounge that can be transformed into a dance floor – as well as a full DJ console. Whether you decide to do straight hors d’oeuvres and passed drinks or full-on dinner, the room is conducive for large events (something of a rarity on the Danforth where not many restaurants can accommodate groups of this size for a corporate function or festive occasion such as a wedding or birthday party). 

Owner Sam Scanga has included personal touches including the option to tailor a beverage for the person ("Mary’s Martini") and creating menus similar to the restaurant to make it a "true dining experience." Three course menus include decadent items such as Lamb Shank with caramelized onions and feta; New York Striploin with gorgonzola cream sauce; and Alaskan Sable Fish with soya honey, without the hefty price attached. 

Also available for booking of groups of 10-90, is the main level that can be completely private or semi-private, depending on the event. The space is one of the coolest in the city, with exposed brick along one side dotted with contemporary art. It’s feels like being in Brooklyn for the night.

Another aspect that makes the restaurant ideal for large parties is that they are one of the few to do separate checks. After all, you’re not a Coppola. Yet. But you can still party like one at Lolita’s Lust.