WHERE TO EAT IN TORONTO

Canadian Cuisine

Canoe Restaurant & Bar

  • Overview: Canoe Restaurant & Bar, located atop the TD Bank Tower, offers a sophisticated dining experience with panoramic views of the city. The menu focuses on contemporary Canadian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Address: 66 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5K 1H6, Canada.
  • Website: Canoe Restaurant & Bar
  • Highlights: Seasonal tasting menus, breathtaking views, Canadian-inspired dishes.
  • Suggested Orders: Explore the Chef’s Tasting Menu for a curated culinary experience.
  • Average Cost: $70-100 CAD per person for lunch.

Richmond Station

  • Overview: Richmond Station, located near Toronto’s financial district, emphasizes farm-to-table dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s casual yet refined atmosphere contributes to its popularity.
  • Address: 1 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5H 3W4, Canada.
  • Website: Richmond Station
  • Highlights: House-made charcuterie, seasonal dishes, laid-back ambiance.
  • Suggested Orders: Start with the Charcuterie Board and try the Duck Confit.
  • Average Cost: $30-50 CAD per person for lunch.

Mildred’s Temple Kitchen

  • Overview: Mildred’s Temple Kitchen, located in the Distillery District, offers a relaxed and welcoming environment. Known for its brunch menu, the restaurant also features Canadian-inspired dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
  • Address: 85 Hanna Ave, Toronto, ON M6K 3S3, Canada.
  • Website: Mildred’s Temple Kitchen
  • Highlights: Weekend brunch, contemporary Canadian cuisine, airy atmosphere.
  • Suggested Orders: Try the Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes for brunch or explore the Grilled Pickerel for lunch.
  • Average Cost: $25-40 CAD per person for lunch.

Italian Cuisine

Trattoria Nervosa

  • Overview: Trattoria Nervosa is a charming Italian restaurant located in Yorkville. With a cozy atmosphere and a menu inspired by traditional Italian dishes, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
  • Address: 75 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 1C1, Canada.
  • Website: Trattoria Nervosa
  • Highlights: Authentic pasta dishes, inviting ambiance, extensive wine list.
  • Suggested Orders: Try the Gnocchi Sorrentina and pair it with a glass of their recommended Italian red wine.
  • Average Cost: $25-40 CAD per person for lunch.

Terroni

  • Overview: Terroni is a popular Italian eatery with multiple locations in Toronto. It offers a rustic and authentic dining experience, focusing on high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes.
  • Address: 57 Adelaide St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1K6, Canada.
  • Website: Terroni
  • Highlights: Neapolitan-style pizza, house-made pasta, extensive wine selection.
  • Suggested Orders: Enjoy the Pizza Margherita and conclude your meal with their Tiramisu.
  • Average Cost: $20-35 CAD per person for lunch.

Pizzeria Libretto

  • Overview: Pizzeria Libretto is renowned for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and a wood-fired oven, it’s a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.
  • Address: 155 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5H 3B7, Canada.
  • Website: Pizzeria Libretto
  • Highlights: Wood-fired pizza, cozy atmosphere, diverse pizza toppings.
  • Suggested Orders: Try the classic Margherita pizza or explore their daily specials.
  • Average Cost: $15-25 CAD per person for lunch.

Asian Fusion Cuisine

Luckee Restaurant

  • Overview: Luckee Restaurant, located in the SoHo Metropolitan Hotel, offers a modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine. The elegant setting and innovative dishes make it a standout in Toronto’s culinary scene.
  • Address: 328 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3T4, Canada.
  • Website: Luckee Restaurant
  • Highlights: Dim sum, Peking duck, stylish decor.
  • Suggested Orders: Indulge in the Dim Sum Platter and savor the Peking Duck.
  • Average Cost: $35-50 CAD per person for lunch.

Lee Restaurant

  • Overview: Lee Restaurant, led by celebrity chef Susur Lee, combines Asian and French flavors to create a unique dining experience. The chic ambiance and inventive dishes contribute to its popularity.
  • Address: 601 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1M5, Canada.
  • Website: Lee Restaurant
  • Highlights: Fusion cuisine, creative dishes, stylish setting.
  • Suggested Orders: Try the Singaporean-style Slaw and the Signature Singaporean-Style Chicken.
  • Average Cost: $40-60 CAD per person for lunch.

Momofuku Noodle Bar

  • Overview: Momofuku Noodle Bar, part of the Momofuku restaurant group, brings a contemporary twist to Asian-inspired dishes. With an open kitchen and communal seating, it offers a casual yet vibrant atmosphere.
  • Address: 190 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5H 0A3, Canada.
  • Website: Momofuku Noodle Bar
  • Highlights: Ramen bowls, steamed buns, innovative small plates.
  • Suggested Orders: Try the Momofuku Ramen and the Pork Belly Buns.
  • Average Cost: $20-30 CAD per person for lunch.

Mexican Cuisine

La Carnita

  • Overview: La Carnita is a lively and trendy Mexican street food-inspired restaurant. Known for its vibrant decor and flavorful dishes, it’s a hotspot for those seeking a casual yet exciting dining experience.
  • Address: 501 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1A5, Canada.
  • Website: La Carnita
  • Highlights: Tacos, creative cocktails, energetic atmosphere.
  • Suggested Orders: Dive into the In Cod We Trust taco and pair it with their house margarita.
  • Average Cost: $15-25 CAD per person for lunch.

Playa Cabana

  • Overview: Playa Cabana offers an authentic Mexican dining experience with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The warm and inviting atmosphere complements the rich flavors of their dishes.
  • Address: 111 Dupont St, Toronto, ON M5R 1V4, Canada.
  • Website: Playa Cabana
  • Highlights: Guacamole, street-style tacos, tequila selection.
  • Suggested Orders: Start with the Guacamole Fresco and savor the Baja Fish Tacos.
  • Average Cost: $20-35 CAD per person for lunch.

El Catrin Destileria

  • Overview: El Catrin Destileria, located in the historic Distillery District, offers a visually stunning setting with a focus on modern Mexican cuisine. The expansive patio and vibrant decor create a lively atmosphere.
  • Address: 18 Tank House Ln, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Canada.
  • Website: El Catrin Destileria
  • Highlights: Artisanal tequila, large patio, contemporary Mexican dishes.
  • Suggested Orders: Try the Queso Fundido and explore the Mole Poblano.
  • Average Cost: $30-45 CAD per person for lunch.

Middle Eastern Cuisine

Byblos

  • Overview: Byblos offers a modern and sophisticated take on Middle Eastern cuisine. The stylish decor and diverse menu make it a standout destination for those seeking a contemporary dining experience.
  • Address: 11 Duncan St, Toronto, ON M5V 3M2, Canada.
  • Website: Byblos
  • Highlights: Mediterranean flavors, inventive dishes, elegant ambiance.
  • Suggested Orders: Start with the Turkish Manti and enjoy the Grilled Branzino.
  • Average Cost: $30-50 CAD per person for lunch.

Tabülè

  • Overview: Tabülè, with locations across Toronto, specializes in Middle Eastern cuisine with a focus on Lebanese dishes. The warm and inviting atmosphere complements the rich and flavorful menu.
  • Address: 2009 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4S 1Z8, Canada.
  • Website: Tabülè
  • Highlights: Shawarma, mezze platters, authentic Lebanese desserts.
  • Suggested Orders: Share the Mixed Grill Platter and end your meal with Baklava.
  • Average Cost: $20-35 CAD per person for lunch.

Fat Pasha

  • Overview: Fat Pasha offers a contemporary and eclectic approach to Middle Eastern and Jewish cuisine. The menu features a mix of traditional dishes and innovative interpretations in a vibrant setting.
  • Address: 414 Dupont St, Toronto, ON M5R 1V9, Canada.
  • Website: Fat Pasha
  • Highlights: Hummus, falafel, unique twists on classic dishes.
  • Suggested Orders: Try the Cauliflower Shawarma and experience the Lamb Tagine.
  • Average Cost: $25-40 CAD per person for lunch.

Vegetarian Cuisine

Planta

  • Overview: Planta is a trendy and upscale plant-based restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience. With a focus on creative and flavorful vegetarian dishes, it has become a favorite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.
  • Address: 1221 Bay St, Toronto, ON M5R 3P5, Canada.
  • Website: Planta
  • Highlights: Innovative plant-based menu, stylish decor, diverse culinary options.
  • Suggested Orders: Indulge in the Forest Mushroom Pizza and explore the Watermelon Poke.
  • Average Cost: $25-45 CAD per person for lunch.

Fresh Restaurants

  • Overview: Fresh Restaurants, with multiple locations across Toronto, is a local chain that focuses on serving fresh and wholesome vegetarian and vegan dishes. The menu features a variety of salads, bowls, wraps, and juices.
  • Address: 90 Eglinton Ave E, Toronto, ON M4P 1A6, Canada.
  • Website: Fresh Restaurants
  • Highlights: Extensive vegetarian and vegan options, fresh ingredients, casual atmosphere.
  • Suggested Orders: Enjoy the Buddha Bowl and try their Cold-Pressed Juices.
  • Average Cost: $15-25 CAD per person for lunch.

Apiecalypse Now!

  • Overview: Apiecalypse Now! is a quirky and creative vegan pizzeria and bakery. Known for its plant-based comfort food, it offers a menu that includes a variety of pizzas, sandwiches, and sweet treats.
  • Address: 735 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1L5, Canada.
  • Website: Apiecalypse Now!
  • Highlights: Vegan pizzas, indulgent desserts, casual and vibrant setting.
  • Suggested Orders: Try the Vegan Mac & Cheese Pizza and explore their selection of vegan pastries.
  • Average Cost: $15-30 CAD per person for lunch.