As the largest city in Canada, Toronto is a bustling metropolis and a world leader in business, finance, entertainment, and culture. However, in recent years, Toronto has developed a unique and spectacular culinary scene for the foodies. No matter what price point you’re after, Toronto has a robust hospitality industry that reflects the city’s rich, cultural diversity seamlessly. Whether you want a fancy meal for a date night, or a simple bite after your shift, there is something on this list of restaurants in Toronto for you!
1. Donna’s
Donna’s is an all-day restaurant located in the Wallace-Emerson neighbourhood in Toronto’s west end. They open in the morning, beginning as a go-to for locals to pick up a breakfast sandwich and coffee before they start their day. The restaurant then transitions to a lunch menu which includes sandwiches, salads, and small dishes. The transition to dinner is where Donna’s shines. This Toronto restaurant has a focus on shared, family-style plates that reflect seasonal offerings. Paired with a wide array of natural wines, cocktails, and local beers. No matter what time of day, Donna’s is perfect for a laid-back meal.
2. Dreyfus
Self-described as “French-ish”, Dreyfus is located in the Harbord Village neighbourhood of Toronto. This cozy bistro offers French-inspired dishes, heavily inspired by the Montreal restaurants the owners of this Toronto restaurant got their start at. On the pricier side of the list, Dreyfus is the perfect spot to take your loved one to. It is housed in a narrow townhouse, so sitting in the dining room feels like an intimate dinner party. Their rotating menu offers a selection of French fine dining staples that pair perfectly with their wine list.
3. Ramen Isshin
Nothing says cozy like a big bowl of ramen! If you’re in Toronto and looking to satisfy that craving, Ramen Isshin is your go-to place. This authentic Japanese ramen spot has two locations, one on College Street just east of Little Italy, and one on Queen Street West in the heart of the fashion district. Whether you’re a ramen connoisseur or just someone who wants to warm up on a chilly fall day, Ramen Isshin is the perfect spot for you.
4. Banjara
For over 16 years, Banjara has been a go-to for Indian cuisine in Toronto. Located in the Bloor West community, you will find Torontonians traveling to Banjara from all over the city for take-out or to dine in. Here, you can discover authentic Indian cuisine, like their famous Butter Chicken and papadum. There’s a reason it’s been voted as the #1 Butter Chicken and #1 Indian Restaurant in Toronto by BlogTO! Their large, spacious dining room allows for larger parties to dine with ease. Remember to bring your appetite!
5. Latin World
If you’re looking for some cheap eats and love Mexican food, then Latin World is the place for you! With three locations in Toronto’s West end, this homely, authentic spot is perfect to satisfy that craving on a budget. Latin World is known for its weekday deals, such as dollar tacos and its famous pozole soup. Their locations also double as a market, with Latin American products, including hot sauces, tostadas, and candy lining the walls. It comes as no surprise that this is a go-to staple for Torontonians living in the west end.
6. Sugo
Sugo, Italian for “sauce,” is perfect if you’re a fan of Italian dining. This daytime spot pays homage to classic Italian red sauce joints famous in New York City, bringing Italian fares, such as pasta, salads, and hot sandwiches, to the Bloor West neighbourhood. The checkered tablecloths and floors give the restaurant a super classic feeling. Most evenings, you’ll find a lineup of Torontonians outside waiting to indulge, so make sure you get there early!
7. Fresh Restaurants
Fresh first started as a juice bar at Toronto’s famous Queen St. Market. Since then, it has become a staple for vegan and vegetarian dining in the city. With multiple locations across Toronto, Fresh’s made-from-scratch food contains only plant-based ingredients. Even if you aren’t a vegan, there is something on the menu for you! From cold-pressed juices and delicious burgers to buffalo cauliflower wraps and onion rings, Fresh has an assortment of shareables!
8. Golden Turtle
If you live in Toronto and are a fan of Vietnamese food, you have undoubtedly heard of Golden Turtle! A strong contender in Toronto for the city’s favourite pho restaurant, and good reason! Golden Turtle has sat on the corner of Ossington and Argyle since 1987, serving up Pho, vermicelli, and fried rice. The owners, who came from Saigon, Vietnam’s largest city, have curated a perfect pho-centric menu that Torontonians have loved for years.
9. Sotto Sotto
If you’re looking to spice things up for your next date night, head on over to Yorkville and check out Sotto Sotto. Though on the pricier side, this Toronto restaurant will have everything you’re after when it comes to Italian fine dining in the city. In fact, it’s even been praised by celebrities such as Drake himself! The menu includes Italian staples such as Spaghetti L’amatriciana, as well as calamari, grilled eggplant, and zucchini. If you’re a foodie in the city, this isn’t one you’ll want to miss!
10. Myth
If you’re into Greek food and want something on the upscale side of things, Myth is your answer! Based on the Greek island of Mykonos, this is the perfect way to get a bit of Greek culture in your life while staying in Toronto. Myth serves traditional Greek cuisine with dips like hummus, tzatziki, and tirokafteri lining the menu. Their most famous dish, Xtapodi Sti Skara, is an authentic grilled octopus dish with fava, capers, and EVOO. If you stay late enough, you’ll catch them turning up the music to watch the dancers and staff twirl napkins around the restaurant with Greek music and dancing.
11. La Carnita
With over four locations in Toronto, it is no surprise why La Carnita is a go-to for Mexican food. These restaurants serve up delicious tacos and churros with an urban, gritty interior. Famous tacos include the Pollo Fritto and the Pork Belly Al Pastor, featuring pineapple braised pork belly, al pastor sauce, lettuce, grilled pineapple salsa, Mexican crema, and crispy chicharronese.
12. Burger Drops
Are you a fan of the classics and want something that will satisfy that burger craving? If so, then look no further than Burger Drops. This Liberty City burger spot is a go-to for people looking for one of the best smash burgers in the city. The combination of perfectly grilled patties with the freshest ingredients makes Burger Drops a contender for the best burger in the city by many. On top of this, they pair them with delicious crispy fries and onion rings. It’s no wonder people come to Liberty Village from all over the province to try this spot!
No matter what it is you’re after, we hope this list of best restaurants in Toronto has helped you find your next favourite spot in the city. Also, don’t miss our list of top restaurants in Hamilton! If you’re a restaurant owner looking for adequate policy coverage, contact isure for all of your business-related needs!
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