Escape the city bustle at Florin, Richmond Street’s new restaurant channeling old-world glamour
Torontonians are known to walk with purpose—even amid the gleaming towers and constant motion of an intersection like Bay Street and Richmond—but slow your stride, and you might just find yourself at the doorstep of Florin. Stepping into this new Italian restaurant feels like finding a hidden gem—a warm, swanky space that seems a world away from the city’s urban grind. This isn’t just another spot for a quick bite, it’s a beautifully designed trattoria that pays homage to the romance of Florence, Italy.
The team behind Florin, Turner Hospitality Group, which you might know from Mother Tongue and Liquid Courage, partnered with Solid Design Creative to craft a dining atmosphere that beautifully balances old and new. The design narrative begins with the restaurant’s location itself, nestled within a 1920s heritage building—a rich canvas for layering in contemporary elements while preserving a sense of timeless elegance.
From the moment you enter, Florin is defined by a soft, amber glow. Elegant, spherical pendant lights hang from the high ceilings, casting a gentle light on the dining areas. This soft lighting scheme extends to the custom-built shelving behind the bar, where bottles are artfully backlit, creating a stunning visual feature and a sense of depth.
The materials chosen for the space are a key part of its appeal. The restaurant features deep, rich tones—think dark wood trim, plush green velvet banquettes, and the warm, reddish-brown leather of the booths. This palette is a sophisticated nod to traditional Italian design, but it’s executed with a fresh, contemporary hand. The checkered floor, a classic trattoria staple, adds a playful yet refined touch that grounds the entire space.
Perhaps one of the most stunning details is the fleur-de-lis motif that appears in several places—from the bottom of your cocktail glass to the trim of the street-facing window—this detail adds a whimsical, traditional touch that softens the clean lines and geometric shapes found elsewhere. It’s a small, thoughtful element that speaks to the level of care and artistry poured into the restaurant’s design.
