September restaurant openings in Toronto have to compete for attention with the fanfare of TIFF, new back-to-school regimes, and seasonal weather changes that affect appetites (as well as patio viability).

Along with some high-profile operations, this month introduced a number of casual, comforting new neighbourhood joints. In no particular order, here are the restaurants openings in Toronto that stood out in September 2014.

Nuit Social

Newly opened on West Queen West where Happy Child used to be, this new spot is poised perfectly to become a date-night destination. The snack bar takes a novel approach to cheese and charcutes, offering guests the chance to make selections one at a time or in customized combinations.

America Restaurant

Hotel eats are elevated at the Trump Tower's totally-overhauled 31st floor restaurant, now being helmed by Charles Khabouth and Oliver and Bonacini. Expect to find nouvelle riffs on American classics and some surprising haute hotel fare.

Branca

This stylish Argentinian BBQ house is now open on Dundas West, grilling up steaks on a parrilla and whole beasts out back over an open flame al asador. Expect the menu to be very meat-centric while the wine and cocktail lists were built to match.

Mr. Flamingo

The recently-debuted restaurant and bar on Dundas West is offering a concise but always-evolving menu that can accomodate any size appetite. Chef Fan Zhang, formerly of Happy Child, finds a new home - one where oysters are freshly shucked or baked with lobster and burrata is made-to-order. The wine list from sommelier Jamie Drummond adds even more promise.

Saturday Dinette

Just in time for fall weather, this casual eatery has replaced Hammersmith's on Gerarrd and is serving up hearty, wholesome comfort foods. Expect the menu to cater to seasonal cravings, with the opening offerings including pot pies, burgers and mac 'n cheese.

Nodo

Vibrant ingredient-driven Italian fare lands in The Junction this month with the opening of this rustic trattoria. The menu is a mix of modern influences and traditional family recipes served in a cozy, eclectic room.

Cumbrae's

Technically not a restaurant, this retail outfit makes this list for being so much more than just a butcher. Dry aging meats and cooler cases full of prime cuts are impressive, but better still, this place is stocked with prepared foods to take home and reheat, plus made-to-order sandwiches meant for immediate consumption.

Montage Yorkville

The newest incarnation of longtime Yorkville restaurant Remy's has reopened with this new name and new look. While the weather is still favourable, check out the rooftop lounge avec bottle service and cabanas, or hold out for the yet-to-open dining room.

Ronnie B's Southern Kitchen & Taps

Chicken wings and waffles, jambalaya, and shrimp 'n grits are all on the menu at this Southern-style roadhouse and jazz bar located on Carlton in Cabbagetown. Expect a boisterous vibe with lots of fun libations like a bean and bacon caesar.

Murgatroid

Also new to Cabbagetown on Parliament, this lunchonette is slinging mighty fine breakfast sandwiches on housemade English muffins. That same made-from-scratch approach touches the whole line-up of soups, salads, sandwiches and seasonally-driven specials, so expect simple fare that's made with care, featuring local ingredients in their prime.

Photo of Ronnie B's by Jesse Milns