Ora Tapas and Lounge - York

I had been wanting to try out this restaurant for some time. I noticed some advertisements on the karaoke screens randomly. The restaurant is located within the idarts Lounge, and the washrooms are also within idarts. On weekends, it can get quite loud due to the live DJ spinning tunes in the evening at idarts. I tried the oysters, which were very fresh and delicious. The lamb dogs were just average. I was eager to try the bone marrow, which was a bit fatty, but I still enjoyed it. My friend tried some other dishes, but she found them to be mediocre and nothing special. Our bill came to around $90, and for that price, I feel I could have had a better meal elsewhere. The dishes are tapas style, but the portions are definitely on the smaller side. Additionally, the noise from outside idarts can be distracting during your meal.

Recently opened by a Chinese restaurant owner in downtown Toronto, this fantastic restaurant lounge is situated in the Markham/Richmond Hill area. Located on the second floor of a modern office building, it is part of a bustling sports bar. The tapas bar features electronic dart games that attract a lively, younger crowd. To access the lounge, which boasts a serious kitchen, one must pass through the sports bar. The menu is elaborate and excellent, offering dishes such as roasted bone marrow with garlic and thyme, seafood croquettes, mushroom Phyllo, beef Carpaccio, seafood Linguini, sea bass with fog broth, lamb frame and black Angus Steak. We sampled a variety of tapas starters, all of which were outstanding. Highlights included the deep fried lotus root chips, the mushroom Phyllo, and the beef Carpaccio with truffle oil. The fresh Australian lamb rack and the Black Angus 1855 Striploin Steak, aged for 35 days, were also exceptional. The wine list is extensive and well-curated, featuring unique selections. The service is friendly, and the modern open décor, with floor-to-ceiling windows and upscale wine-crate accents, creates a bright and inviting atmosphere. The quality of the cuisine is truly excellent and elevates the dining scene in the previously overlooked northern part of the Greater Toronto Area.

Not your typical Markham restaurantI think it makes for a perfect date night spot.

We came for a dinner using a Groupon coupon. Food: Hits and misses, but overall 4 stars.

We visited on Saturday, December 20th with a group of 10 people. We were able to easily make reservations in advance. The location is a bit tricky to find because it's inside iDarts.