Prime Seafood Palace
Project Type:
Restaurant
Year:
2022
Architect
Omar Gandhi Architects
Location:
Toronto, Canada
Prime Seafood Palace, designed by Omar Gandhi Architects (OGA), is a remarkable culinary destination located in Toronto's vibrant West Queen West neighborhood. Completed in 2023, the restaurant is the brainchild of celebrated Canadian chef Matty Matheson, known for his dedication to exceptional, straightforward cuisine. The design aims to provide a serene escape from the bustling city streets, embodying a timeless aesthetic with a focus on natural materials and light.
The design concept for Prime Seafood Palace is centered around the idea of a "wood cathedral," reflecting both Japanese and Scandinavian architectural influences. The interior features a two-story wood-slat vault that filters natural light, creating a warm, inviting ambiance. The primary materials used in the space include rich white maple, brass, and supple buff-toned leather, chosen for their ability to develop a patina over time, enhancing the restaurant’s timeless appeal.
Unique design elements abound in Prime Seafood Palace. The main dining area boasts vertical brass screens that provide privacy while maintaining a subtle connection to the outside world. A wood-clad "cloud" runs the length of the restaurant, diffusing natural light to create a soft, glowing interior. The furniture, custom-designed by Coolican & Company, includes large booth tables with concealed drawers for steak knives and a special edition of the Edwin chair, featuring brass spindles that echo the brass screens throughout the dining space.
One of the standout features of Prime Seafood Palace is its attention to detail in creating an immersive dining experience. The restaurant’s state-of-the-art lighting control system adjusts interior light levels based on exterior conditions, ensuring a consistently comfortable atmosphere. The interior design also incorporates acoustic treatments and curated music to enhance the sensory experience, making each visit memorable.
The restaurant’s culinary philosophy is deeply connected to its design. The open-concept kitchen, visible from the main dining area, allows guests to observe the culinary team at work, emphasizing transparency and a connection to the food. The menu, inspired by classic steakhouse principles, features locally sourced ingredients, including produce from Matheson’s own Blue Goose Farm, Ontario beef, and Atlantic seafood. The use of cherry wood coals for cooking further ties the culinary experience to the restaurant's natural material palette.
Prime Seafood Palace has received significant acclaim for its design, winning several awards and being recognized for its innovative approach to restaurant architecture. The collaboration between Omar Gandhi and Matty Matheson has resulted in a space that not only celebrates food but also creates a welcoming, intimate environment that invites guests to linger and enjoy.
In conclusion, Prime Seafood Palace stands out as a unique fusion of refined architecture and exceptional cuisine. Its thoughtful design, use of natural materials, and commitment to creating a holistic dining experience make it a significant addition to Toronto’s culinary landscape, setting a new standard for restaurant design and dining experiences.