A world-class restaurant in its food, hospitality, & interior design, Alobar Downtown balances an upscale experience with a laid-back spirit. Part of a Michelin Star restaurant group, Alo Food Group, the space is designed for a fashion-forward, business-savvy diner with a keen knowledge of cuisine and libations. In the heart of Toronto’s energetic financial district, Alobar Downtown invites enthusiasts, locals from the area, and visitors to the city looking for a destination spot.
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Gold 🏆 Winner
International Interior Design Awards 2024
Alobar Downtown
Restaurant Interior Built
Firm
Mason Studio
Designer
Stanley Sun
Design Team
Stanley Sun (Co-Founder, Creative Director), Ashley Rumsey (Co-Founder, Executive Director), Marti Gallucci (Design Director), Toni Akam (Project Designer), Nicolas Burbano-Diaz (Project Designer)
Location
Toronto, Ontario
Country
Canada
Photographer/Copyright
Scott Norsworthy Photography


The personality of Chef Patrick Kriss is embedded in the space. Everything has a function and purpose and has been meticulously considered, but the effect is effortless and inspiring. Materials were selected to support the dining experience, with consideration of placement to highlight function for both staff and guests.
Working within the shell of a former bistro enlisted opportunity to minimize waste and carbon footprint. We retained the original marble tile, various surfaces, and ceiling. We brightened up the darker interior by resurfacing existing finishes to incorporating light drapery to support noise and sound transmission between every section of the restaurant.
The design of Alobar Downtown emits layered emotions across its programming. From the bar – slightly darker and moodier in its lighting, finishes and fixtures to the dining room, which is a brighter, more open area. Set in one of Toronto’s busiest districts, the restaurant maintains a visual connection with its outside environment.
In the bar and lounge, stunning black and white marble contrasts with dark millwork. High-impact flooring in a deco-inspired tile was preserved from the previous tenant. Comfortable seating is lined against the east-facing wall to provide a variety of options for guests, with enough space for hosts. At night, intentional fixtures illuminate the restaurant. An art installation of suspended mobiles was designed by Mason Studio and fabricated by Crow Art Design Build to inspire a sense of awe from every perspective of the restaurant. The main gesture of reduction was using existing elements of the space, rather than removing. The interior and exterior pergola was retrieved from original fabricator that originally installed it, to repurpose in other projects. The original floor, bar, ceiling, and bathroom surfaces were retained. Paint and gentle plaster textures revitalized these elements. The kitchen pass was maintained – details were added on top of the existing frame and texture to provide a different atmosphere and look.