In a neighbourhood known for constant reinvention, Motto has arrived as a bright spot of warmth and family tradition on bustling Queen Street West. This Mediterranean-style café, opened in late October, represents the culmination of owner Deniz Telli's years in hospitality — and a dream realized alongside his talented aunts who recently arrived from Turkey.
"My aunts came two years ago from Turkey, and they are really good chefs," Telli explains. "That's why we started in the restaurant business together."
The space, flooded with natural light from lofty skylights, was designed to transport guests to the sunny coasts of Greece and western Turkey. "I chose terrazzo tiles, white and green colours," says Telli of the bright, welcoming interior. A sign on the wall asks customers "What's your motto today?" — a gentle invitation to reflect while the kitchen prepares their order.
The menu, designed entirely by Telli's aunts, draws from across the Mediterranean without limiting itself to any single tradition. "We tried to touch on Mediterranean cuisine — French, Italian, Turkish — all mixed. We are Turkish, but we didn't want to make just Turkish dishes," Telli says.
Health-conscious diners can start with cold-pressed juices made from Ontario Food Terminal produce, including the vitamin-packed Motto Beet and the virtuous Motto Green. But it's the generous, from-scratch plates that have made Motto a neighbourhood favourite.
The Mediterranean Breakfast arrives heaped with fried eggs, sausage, traditional Turkish mücver (zucchini fritters), olives, salad, toast and spreads — a feast that could easily stretch into lunch. Eggs Benedict comes elevated with herbed cream cheese, smoky salmon, and perfectly poached eggs. The Pistachio Pancakes, cloaked in luxurious pistachio sauce with twin peaks of mascarpone cream, have become social media stars.
At Motto, Telli's aunts feed customers as though they know each one personally, making it impossible not to feel at home at their table. It's the kind of family warmth that transforms a meal into a memory.