Lake Inez fuses Asian flavours and craft beer on Gerrard

Photo: Lake Inez

The frantic pace at which the Gerrard St. strip is growing shows no signs of slowing heading into 2017.

Lake Inez, an Asian-inspired restaurant and craft beer bar, is the latest spot to open, taking over the former space of Siddhartha Pure Vegetarian in Little India. 

Longtime Toronto chef Robbie Hojilla, formerly of Harbord Room, is leading the kitchen with a menu showcasing his take on modern Pan-Asian cuisine. The menu offers a mix of small and large sharing plates meant to accompany the lengthy roster of craft beer being poured.

"The menu is inspired by the Asian flavours that I grew up with, my travels and the techniques I've learned working in fine dining restaurants," Hojilla says. "To anyone who has been to some of my pop up dinners or guest chef events, the food [is] in that wheelhouse."

Lake Inez is loosely associated with The Wren through ownership ties and, taking a cue from the Danforth pub, has put a heavy emphasis on local craft beer with 18 rotating taps and a selection of large bottles for sharing (or self-indulging). 

Lake Inez occupies a large but cozy room with an antique-vintage vibe. High and low tables mix with an open and approachable bar area and a gorgeous stained-glass mural at the back of the space. 

Lake Inez is now open at 1471 Gerrard St. E. Visit them on Instagram for your viewing pleasure.