Modus Ristorante will become Strella Strella by Modus this fall, bringing a new Italian dining concept to Toronto’s Financial District.
The restaurant is being developed by founder Sam Genkov and his daughter Victoria Genkov. Sam has worked in hospitality for three decades, with restaurants and businesses including Bravi Ristorante, Modus Ristorante and City Farm Sandwiches & Co.
Modus has been part of the Financial District for nearly 15 years. The restaurant became known among business diners and regular guests for Italian dishes such as Spaghetti and Meatballs and a warm approach to service.
Strella Strella will keep some of that familiarity through returning dishes and modern versions of Italian classics. The menu will have more shareable plates, and the service will include interactive elements intended to make dinner feel more personal.
A Martini Bar will be a central part of the restaurant. A roaming cocktail cart will prepare drinks at the table, and the cocktail menu will have an extensive selection of Italian aperitivi.
The wine list will draw mainly from Old World regions. A dedicated wine cellar and spacious private dining room are being added for business dinners, celebrations and private events.
Toronto interior design firm Figure3 is creating the new dining room, with a quieter type of luxury expressed through the atmosphere and details rather than an overly formal look. BUILD IT is handling construction and project delivery.
The changes mark a generational shift for the Genkov family, with Victoria bringing her own perspective to the restaurant Sam established. Strella Strella is intended for business meals, social dinners and private gatherings, keeping parts of Modus familiar but giving the restaurant a new identity.
Strella Strella by Modus is scheduled to open in Toronto’s Financial District in fall 2026. An exact opening date has not been announced.