How to recreate a Typhoon:
One interior designer.
Two professional chefs.
Several months of renovations.
Stir vigorously.
A Monkland Avenue staple for 10 years, Typhoon has finally reopened its doors to striking effect. With women in mind, co-owner Greg Silas has given the subterranean lounge a chic, contemporary flavour. (But don’t worry; men can still catch the game on the huge flat screen.)
Their famous hamburgers aside, the menu has moved up the sophistication ladder. Melting brie wedges (as sinful as they sound, $12), flavourful salads (we loved the Soho with walnuts and goat cheese, $12), and sizzling platters like dumplings with Thai peanut sauce ($10) were utterly scrumptious.
Classic martinis ($10) including the Cuban Kiss and the signature Typhoon remain, joined by fresh, inventive mixes. The Flirtini (raspberry vodka, cointreau, with cranberry and pineapple juices) tickled our taste buds, while the Ty-Chee (sake, lychee and cranberry juice) had us contemplating the good life (and which cocktail to try next).
Clever lighting, rich wood accents and specially-tinted windows (visible after dark) create the illusion of being in a secluded forest. Forecast: Many cold evenings spent drinking in the sumptuous atmosphere…and eating it up too.
Typhoon Lounge
5752 Monkland Avenue
514-482-4448