Azzurra first opened in May 2000 -- the creation of Marie and Mark Damigiani -- tucked away in the corner of a plaza on First street in downtown Collingwood. With lovely views of the sunset over Georgian Bay the restaurant quickly become a hot spot for locals and tourists alike. With Mark as the chef and Marie running the front of house the quality of food and service was always consistent.

Andrea Greyerbiehl was a young woman who worked for them during their first year. They knew first hand that Andrea shared their passion and understood their vision for Azzurra. Andrea purchased the restaurant in February 2003.

Over the next couple of years Andrea and the staff at Azzurra continued to develop a reputation for fine, fresh food and exemplary service in an up market, comfortable setting. The 38 seat bustling restaurant continued to be a destination location so when an opportunity arose to move to a new, slightly larger location around the corner, it seemed the natural thing to do.

Renovations began in October of 2005 at 100 Pine street, which had previously been the location of Terracotta restaurant. The existing bar was sized down by half and moved to the main dining area. The kitchen was opened as much as possible with a pass through window and by removing the doors to encourage patrons to peek their heads in to say hello. A vestibule was installed to shield diners from the chilly Collingwood winters. The grand doors and chandeliers
were rummaged and refinished from an old house in Toronto and the push plates originated from the Gayety Theater’s entrance. Little windows in the same area were salvaged from Andrea’s grandparent’s farmhouse near Waterloo before its demolition. With all the work done by Andrea, family and friends and staff, the doors re-opened for business on December 15.

The new location was a great decision for Azzurra and the renovations a successful transformation of the space. The layout inside provides for intimate dinners and larger groups alike. There are quiet corners, fishbowl window seats and a casual bar area. The patio at Pine Street is a wonderful way to enjoy late afternoon cocktails and dusk lit summer dinners.

The food and service continue to be exceptional and there is always a familiar face to greet you. Sarah Slater is currently heading up the front of house team at the restaurant and never forgets a face. Leona Nyman, Chef at Azzurra since 2008, works her magic in the kitchen, with a passion for incorporating locally-grown, fresh ingredients whenever possible.

The wine list is carefully chosen to complement the menu. The staff at Azzurra have many favourites and are willing to share their prefernces if asked.

Azzurra is open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner, from 5pm.

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