The Hip & Urban Girl's Guide: Obika Mozzarella Bar Opening, Toronto

Gourmet mozzarella bar, Obika opened their doors in Toronto last night to some major fanfare. New York-based DJ, Chuck Barrett was flown-in for the big event and he delivered. Tipsy from the sparkling wine or Peroni beer, the crowd really let loose on a makeshift dance floor to Barrett's quick cuts and smooth mixes. The crowd was gettin' down to some serious 90s hip-hop and old skool classics.

The real star of the night was the mozzarella cheese that was served up every which way. Favourites included the deep-fried mini mozzarella ball, shredded mozzarella in cream and the thin crust pizzas with generous chunks of cheese. Bread baskets were scattered everywhere and there was definitely not a lack of food. The menu centres around the Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP in the form of classic, creamy burrata or smoked.

Obika is a restaurant brand out of Italy which has opened outposts in New York, Los Angeles, London, Tokyo and now Toronto. The majority of the tables are on the outdoor 'patio' of Brookfield Place across from Marche and space is at a premium. Make sure you call ahead for a table to ensure yourself a seat. At the back of the restaurant is a private dining room. I had tried out the Obika in Florence and it was a hip and modern space with a moody, lounge vibe with St. Germain playing in the background. It's a great place for dinner or even after-work cocktails and a few cheese appetizers to share.

The Classic Mozzarella

Smoked mozzarella wrapped in grilled zucchini. The cheese is smoked for only thirty seconds in a barrel to achieve that campfire taste. It's definitely a must-try.