II BY IV DESIGN is proud to announce that its project, SAMMARCO, Toronto’s newest addition to the hospitality scene, has been recognized by Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants with three major distinctions: Best Restaurant Design, No. 7 on the Best New Restaurants list, and No. 37 on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants overall.
Inspired by the international travels of II BY IV DESIGN partners Dan Menchions and Keith Rushbrook, SAMMARCO is rooted in the convergence of design, history, and culinary artistry. With a strong emphasis on the holistic guest experience, the restaurant redefines dining by crafting a narrative that begins the moment guests walk through its doors.
The restaurant is the result of a collaborative effort by an exceptional team whose creativity, innovation, and precision have shaped both the physical space and its culinary offering. II BY IV DESIGN was instrumental in achieving this vision, and seasoned restaurateur David Minicucci and Michelin starred chef Rob Rossi played integral roles in bringing the vision to life, drawing on their extensive experience in the food and beverage industry.
Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants recognized SAMMARCO for its exceptional craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, from terrazzo floors and a sculpted ceiling to bespoke lighting elements.
The designation continues to set the benchmark for the nation’s culinary landscape, spotlighting the attention to detail, sophistication, and innovation that define excellence, while also honoring the talented individuals and teams behind these exceptional experiences. The list is determined by votes from a distinguished panel of culinary enthusiasts, food writers and critics, chefs, restaurateurs, and industry professionals.
Technical sheet
- Project name: SAMMARCO
- Location: 4 Front St. E, Toronto, ON M5E 1G4
- Client: David Minicucci and Rob Rossi
- Architect: Daniel Johnson Architect, Inc.
- Landscape architect: II BY IV DESIGN
- Interior design: II BY IV DESIGN
- Construction: BLT Construction
- Art consultant: II BY IV DESIGN
- Stone: Ciot
- Mosaic: SICIS North America, Inc.
- Glass (architectural): Acura Glass
- Specialty glass: Goodman Studio
- Tile (bar feature): Viúva Lamego
- Brick (exterior façade): GlenGery
- Wood: M. Bohlke Veneer & Lumber
- Floors (kitchen flooring): LSI Floors
- Fabric: CTL Leathers and Wollsdorf Leather
- Fabricators
- Millwork and furniture: RFP Design Group, Inc.
- Upholstered seating: Louis Interiors
- Custom light fixtures: Anony
- Custom chairs: REPUBLIC OF II BY IV
- Ceiling plaster installation: Studio Alvo
- Custom exterior doors: Classic Crystal
- Custom planters and exterior patio: Rose Perri
- Exterior marble bench: Kreoo
About II BY IV DESIGN
Founded in 1990 by partners Dan Menchions and Keith Rushbrook, II BY IV DESIGN is an internationally recognized, award-winning studio celebrated for its innovative and thoughtful design. With over 35 years of experience, the firm has contributed to pivotal projects worldwide, maintaining long-term client relationships. Guided by a vision of creativity and balance, Menchions and Rushbrook lead a team of 50 across offices in Toronto, London, and New York, specializing in hospitality, multi-residential complexes, retail, marine interiors, and bespoke design.
