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Tastes of Our Town: Villa Risi
Villa Risi, an Italian restaurant on the east side of Yonge, north of Mulock, was a familiar and friendly-looking place. My family and I were in the mood for an Italian dinner and decided to try it out.
We drove through a snowstorm to get there and were relieved to find ample parking right in front of the restaurant. We stepped through the front door and were greeted by the warmth of the restaurant and the owner, Peter Risi. He kindly introduced himself and led us to our table in the warm, spacious and appealing dining room.
Peter’s daughter, Nathaly, approached with a smile to bring us water, a wine list and a fresh bread basket. While we looked over our menus, Peter’s wife, Francine, came by to say hello. It was then that we realized that this is truly a family run business.
Francine explained some of the history of Villa Risi which of course translates as “House of Risi”. We learned that Peter was originally from a small region in Italy called Terelle and that his parents, Filomena and Antonio Risi, had been remarkable cooks, instilling in Peter the belief in using fresh ingredients and cooking from the heart. When Peter came to Canada, he worked in the restaurant business for many years before starting Villa Risi twenty years ago, as did Francine. Their son, Anthony, is the main chef and learned how to prepare the authentic Italian cuisine from his father. Peter and Francine’s daughter, Nathaly, helps out in the dining room. Both children have been part of the restaurant since its inception twenty years ago. This February, the Risi family celebrates the twenty year anniversary of their restaurant.
On this night in the restaurant, the mood was tranquil, the lighting was soft and the music was mellow and jazzy, setting the perfect tone. We all commented to one another on how relaxed we felt and how it was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of our busy days. The fireplace, displays of wine bottles and frescoes added to the ambience.
Our appetizers arrived along with more bread and wine: grilled calamari in a spicy tomato sauce and broccoli soup, both delicious. The menu was well rounded and we had a hard time deciding what to order. We decided on three different dishes: veal, pasta and salmon. All were flavourful, perfectly cooked and beautifully displayed. The portions were hearty and filling; we didn’t leave hungry, that’s for sure!
At one point in the evening, I took a stroll through the restaurant and appreciated that although it was large enough to accommodate many guests at once, it had a warm and intimate mood. I noticed the private back room which Francine pointed out is perfect for events such as communions, weddings, confirmations, wine and dinner evenings and corporate meetings. Every Friday and Saturday they feature live entertainment for a fun evening out.
My family and I were delighted with our experience at Villa Risi. The atmosphere was perfect for a couple’s romantic evening out, for a gathering of friends or a family’s fun and reconnection. The food was delicious and ample, the service was gracious and attentive and we can’t thank the Risi family enough for their hospitality. Francine told me that she and her family hope that in the last twenty years they have given a little bit of Italy to everyone who has come to visit and they want to say thank you to the community for all the wonderful years. My family and I say thank you in return! We now plan to return regularly. Happy Anniversary Villa Risi!
Villa Risi is conveniently located at 16995 Yonge Street, between Mulock and Eagle. For more information, please visit www.villarisi.com or phone 905-836-8062.
