Otta Zapotocky is taking the concept of seasonal dining to its conclusion. This October, the Leaside restaurateur (he owns L’Avenue and Tinto) is opening Toronto’s first literally seasonal restaurant.

During the winter months, Tinto will transform into an alpine chalet called Val-d'Isère, which will serve up hearty après ski fare like roast pork hock, escargot and fondue. Even the patio will be winterized with a wooden roof and a fire pit—perfect for snuggling up next to with a blanket and some mulled wine.

When the weather shifts and appetites shrink with rising temperatures, Tinto will return from hibernation, and with a quick reno will transform the wee room from Tyrolean retreat back into a Catalonian snack bar.

Here’s a preview of Val-d'Isère’s menu, which ranges from lumberjack-sized meals to ski bunny–geared fare like a vegetable and rabbit stew. 

Traditional Fondue ($29) made with  Gruyère, Emmenthal, Alpenzahler, roasted garlic, Kirsh and white wine (IMAGE: CAROLINE AKSICH)

 

This isn’t your usual pounded into oblivion schnitzel. Instead,  Zapotocky uses a thick cut of bone-in pork shoulder, which stays particularly juicy. The schnitzel ($22) is served with pomme puree (IMAGE: CAROLINE AKSICH)

 

A contemporary spin on escargot ($12) served atop puff pastry with roasted garlic and mushrooms (IMAGE: CAROLINE AKSICH)

 

Carb lovers will be all about this potato soup ($15) served in  miche bread bowl. The soup’s topped with broiled Gruyère cheese and bacon (IMAGE: CAROLINE AKSICH)

 

This heaping portion is for sharing. Sauerkraut is topped with double-smoked bacon, roasted pork hock, bratwurst, bacon, smoked pork hock and potatoes ($25) (IMAGE: CAROLINE AKSICH)

 

Update: We have corrected the name of this restaurant’s neighbourhood from Bayview Village to Leaside.