27 Best Restaurants in Toronto in 2024
Are you looking to dive into the best restaurants Toronto has to offer? Then this guide is for you! As Canada's largest city, it's no surprise that the food scene in Toronto is highly impressive, with eateries serving almost every cuisine imaginable. However, with so many incredible options, deciding where to try first can be challenging.
To help you out, we’ve gathered an array of the best dining establishments in Toronto, complete with gorgeous interiors, impressive reputations and most importantly, delicious food. From family restaurants in the East and West Ends to chic speakeasies in Midtown and upscale spots in Downtown, keep reading to find out where your next dinner reservation will be.
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Find the Best Restaurants in Toronto
As one of the most multicultural cities in the world, it’s fascinating to see how expert chefs at restaurants in Toronto are breaking new ground. Watch as they merge traditional recipes with modern techniques to create a stunning mosaic of new dishes.
With ample options to choose from, it’s no wonder that these restaurants in Toronto help both locals and visitors discover the distant corners of the world, only a neighbourhood or two away. For a more guided experience, you can discover new tastes with the expertise of a local on one of many exciting food tours in Toronto.
The 27 Best Toronto Restaurants
1. Canoe
With gorgeous, sweeping views of Toronto’s metropolitan skyline, Canoe offers the perfect ambiance for your next elevated meal. Couple those views with a seasonal menu that captures the rich flavours of contemporary Canadian cuisine and it’s no wonder this restaurant in Toronto also doubles as a wedding venue.
The Vibe
Soaring above the city on the TD Building’s 54th floor, you'll experience a classy and stylish vibe while dining here that leaves a memorable impression.
What to Order
The classic onion soup is delectable, along with the stuffed lamb saddle and fresh halibut. For those wanting a fuller experience, the tasting menu is sure to satisfy.
Canoe | 66 Wellington St. W., 54th Floor, Toronto, ON M5K1H6 | $$$$
2. Piano Piano
When it comes to homey Italian spots, Piano Piano is a restaurant Toronto locals rave proudly about. Fresh, authentic Italian dishes are served in a warm and intimate atmosphere that leaves visitors looking forward to their next reservation.
The Vibe
Whimsical, romantic and lively with eclectic décor choices that are made by Toronto-based designers.
What to Order
Made-from-scratch pasta dishes, such as the canestri alla vodka, will be sure to please your taste buds, while the sweet hornet pizza is a great sharable sweet and savoury option. For dessert lovers, try the delectably balanced Nutella tiramisu.
Piano Piano | Multiple Locations | $$$
3. Byblos Downtown
Named after the Phoenician city, Byblos Downtown is one of two locations of this restaurant in Toronto (and one of three, overall). Paying homage to its port city namesake, Byblos offers a wide menu of traditional Eastern Mediterranean fare with an exciting modern twist.
The Vibe
Luxurious and suave, yet still very cozy and intimate. Heading here for a romantic dinner is notably a date idea in Toronto that's popular with locals.
What to order
Share the lamb shoulder, which gets roasted with layered spices and comes with pita, chickpeas and other delicious sides. Balance things out with some fragrant black truffle rice.
Byblos Downtown | 11 Duncan St., Toronto, ON M5V 3M2 | $$$$
4. Porchetta & Co.
When it comes to finding mouthwatering porchetta, no one does it like Porchetta & Co. This restaurant in Toronto specialises in the traditional Italian pork roast, which is crafted with special in-house techniques and served proudly in delicious sandwiches and other dishes.
The Vibe
The counter-serve style, rustic wooden tables and bar seating make this an ideal restaurant in Toronto for indulgent lunch breaks during busy days.
What to Order
The house special is the signature menu item for good reason. Sandwiched between two fluffy buns, enjoy your savoury slow-cooked porchetta served with crisp crackling and sides of decadent truffle sauce and Parmesan.
Porchetta & Co. | Multiple Locations | $$
5. Alo
For those who enjoy a more sophisticated experience, Alo is a Michelin-star fine dining restaurant that Toronto can proudly call one of its best. Highly sought reservations for a masterful tasting menu of French cuisine make this establishment even more exclusive and alluring.
The Vibe
Refined yet comfortable, with thoughtful seating that encourages conversation. A welcoming aura is generated by the impeccable service throughout.
What to Order
Alo offers an intricate tasting menu that varies in the number of courses served but never fails to impress. Expect an exploration of carefully prepared dishes from appetizers to desserts, plus excellent wine options.
Alo | 163 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5V 2L6 | $$$$
6. Morgans on the Danforth
Cozy yet classy neighbourhood restaurants in Toronto, such as Morgans on the Danforth, are the kind that help make the big city feel just like home. This gastropub uses locally sourced ingredients to offer an inspired menu of savoury Canadian dishes with an international twist.
The Vibe
Warm and humming with a zest for life that reflects its city and inhabitants, which is always pleasant to find at a restaurant in Toronto.
What to Order
For brunch, try the shakshuka — oven-poached eggs over a hearty tomato stew. For dinner, pair the Southern fried chicken with a craft beer. Try the classic sticky toffee pudding for dessert.
Morgans on the Danforth | 1282 Danforth Ave., Toronto, ON M4J 1M6 | $$
7. Pai
Pai is often noted as one of the best restaurants in Toronto, proven proudly by its Michelin star and the consistent lineup outside of both its locations. Locals know to visit when they need to satisfy their craving for Northern Thai cuisine.
The Vibe
This eatery features all the excitement of a bustling night market, but indoors. Colourful décor matches the fun energy, creating a carefree atmosphere that’s especially perfect for relaxed outings after a long day.
What to order
Many would cite Pai’s pad thai as the best version of all the Thai restaurants in Toronto, along with the khao soi. Either way, they’re both delicious menu staples for noodle lovers.
Pai | Multiple Locations | $$
8. MIMI Chinese
MIMI Chinese features classic yet elevated Chinese food. As a newer restaurant in Toronto, MIMI breaks new ground by offering a more refined, mature dining experience as well as an opportunity to explore China’s regional flavours.
The Vibe
Modern and cool, with décor and darker mood lighting that adds a flair of drama and excitement. Great for date nights and more impressive business dinners.
What to Order
From the region of Guangdong, the char siu is roasted to perfection with flavours of wildflower honey and caramelized soybean. Enjoy a balanced bite with a sweet outer layer and a more savoury, salty centre.
MIMI Chinese | 265 Davenport Road, Toronto, ON M5R 1J9 | $$$
9. Gusto 101
Gusto 101 is one of the most popular Italian restaurants in Toronto, and for good reason! One of three locations opened by the famous Chef Janet Zuccarini, the eatery serves up refreshingly modern takes on traditional dishes from sunny Southern Italy.
The Vibe
Charmingly rustic, with a layout of wooden dining tables designed to inspire conversation and connection.
What to Order
The mafalde al funghi, or in other words, the mushroom pasta, is a top contender for one of the best pasta dishes you’ll find at a restaurant in Toronto. You'll get to enjoy fresh pasta with portobello and oyster mushrooms enveloped in a rich, creamy truffle sauce.
Gusto 101 | 101 Portland St., Toronto, ON M5V 2N3 | $$
10. Lake Inez
Tucked away in the East End of the city is the ever-mysterious and alluring Lake Inez. Visiting this restaurant in Toronto feels like being in on a special secret, especially with its rotating seasonal menu of creative Asian fusion dishes.
The Vibe
A cozy and serene aura, with homey décor, warm lighting and an inspiring mosaic wall. Heading to this one-of-a-kind restaurant is a perfect birthday idea in Toronto if you want to do something memorable.
What to Order
The menu changes frequently, but fresh and thoughtfully prepared seafood dishes often feature. Ample vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free variations are usually available as well. If you’re curious for more, try the Mystery Patio tasting menu available in the summer.
Lake Inez | 1471 Gerrard St. E., Toronto, ON M4L 2A1 | $$$
11. Maha’s
Maha’s is a popular restaurant in Toronto for brunch, Egyptian-style. Located in Leslieville, Maha’s is the place to go for traditional Egyptian dishes and a cozy coffee menu of drinks to pair them with.
The Vibe
This spot feels like a family or friend’s dining room. True to the nature of homey restaurants in Toronto, Maha’s walls are adorned with historic keepsakes, kitchen-related items and other décor, contributing to a fun and sweet energy all around.
What to Order
The basturma scramble is not to be missed. It features thin slices of cured beef (basturma) mixed with hearty scrambled egg and a side of Egyptian flatbread. However, whichever breakfast dish you choose will leave you full and satisfied.
Maha’s | 226 Greenwood Ave., Toronto, ON M4L 2R2 | $$
12. Imanishi Japanese Kitchen
Imanishi Japanese Kitchen is an intimate izakaya restaurant in Toronto’s West End. When dining here, you can explore the beauty and comfort of classic homestyle Japanese cooking through shareable small plates.
The Vibe
Quaint and inviting with warm candlelight and snug décor. This Toronto restaurant is a great spot for first dates and late-night dinners with friends.
What to Order
The tai carpaccio is a refreshing dish of thinly sliced red snapper with tomatoes, topped off with yuzu sauce. The corn kakiage and pork belly katsu are also popular.
Imanishi Japanese Kitchen | 1330 Dundas St. W., Toronto, ON M6J 1Y1 | $$
13. Patois
Named after a word that refers to the respectful crossroads of food dishes from different cultures, Patois is a restaurant in Toronto that truly exceeds that sentiment. The menu is a fusion of delicious Caribbean and Asian soul food, led by French-trained Craig Wong.
The Vibe
Fun and vibrant, with bright murals on the walls, good music and tropical décor all around. The welcoming atmosphere makes it an instant classic for West End restaurants in Toronto.
What to Order
The Chinese Pineapple Bun Burger is sure to satisfy. It expertly juxtaposes a double smash burger and unique fixings with a sweet, crumbly pineapple bun.
Patois | 794 Dundas St. W., Toronto, ON M6J 1V1 | $$
14. Ramen Raijin
On a rainy day, nothing hits the spot more than a hot bowl of ramen. If you can't decide where to get your ramen fix, head to Ramen Raijin, a restaurant Toronto locals flock to for a comforting bowl of this beloved Japanese meal. The name refers to the god of lightning, thunder and storms in Japanese myth.
The Vibe
Bold and exciting, with powerful wooden décor to resemble its namesake. This restaurant in Toronto is open-concept to encourage a more communal experience.
What to Order
The miso ramen comes with slow-boiled chicken broth, sliced pork shoulder, chicken, veggies and an optional seasoned egg to warm the soul. Cool down between bites with a refreshing yuzu lemonade.
Ramen Raijin | 24 Wellesley St. W., Toronto, ON M4Y 2X6 | $$
15. Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos
In the mood for Baja-style tacos? Then a trip to Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos, an infamous taco restaurant in Toronto, is in order. Located in Kensington Market, Seven Lives fits right in as an eclectic taco joint serving up mouthwatering fish tacos and more.
The Vibe
The atmosphere here is fun and exciting! A colourful mural featuring dancing tacos and relaxed wooden bar seating make this restaurant in Toronto one of the most joyful places in the city for a quick bite.
What to Order
The Baja fish tacos are always a hit, with battered and fried fish under sauce and salsa, all nestled inside a soft tortilla.
Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos | 72 Kensington Ave., Toronto, ON M5T 2K1 | $
16. Mamakas Taverna
When it comes to modern Greek cuisine, Mamakas Taverna is one of the best restaurants Toronto has to offer. Meals here are inspired by natural forces like the sun, sea and soil to create authentic and memorable dining experiences.
The Vibe
Tucked away in a corner on Ossington, this restaurant in Toronto is carefree and refreshing with décor inspired by the breezy seaside.
What to Order
The lamb chops are seared to perfection, tender enough to fall off the bone. They’re served as a sharing plate meant for family-style dining with a comforting side of bulgur and a classic tzatziki sauce.
Mamakas Taverna | 80 Ossington Ave., Toronto, ON M6J 2Y7 | $$$
17. Dil Se
Dil Se is a restaurant in Toronto that specializes in authentic North Indian fare. This fine dining restaurant by High Park serves up nostalgic home cooking in traditional Punjabi Dhaba style.
The Vibe
The vibe here is authentic, sincerely genuine and unpretentious. The simple yet elegant décor helps create a warm and relaxing environment, which is always the best kind for enjoying a cozy meal with close friends or family.
What to Order
The paneer lababdar, a creamy and tangy curry dish cooked Mughlai-style with vegetables, fragrant cashew sauces and spices, is a great choice. The paneer tikka masala is also a popular option, as well as the rasmalai for dessert.
Dil Se | 335 Roncesvalles Ave., Toronto, ON M6R 2M8 | $$
18. Afrobeat Kitchen
When it comes to restaurants in Toronto that specialize in West African cuisine, Afrobeat Kitchen stands out for sure. While dining here, you'll get to enjoy traditional fare prepared to order with fresh ingredients and intricate layers of spices and seasoning.
The Vibe
Laidback and suave, this restaurant in Toronto has an interior of wooden-slat tables and turquoise and yellow walls to create its cheerful tone.
What to Order
The Party Jollof is a delicious twist on the classic rice dish. It features lemongrass and crayfish and is served with sides of a Signature Tribe Slaw, fried plantains and your choice of chicken, beer or prawns. The Shrimp Surfers are also a great sharable plate for the table.
Afrobeat Kitchen | 1510 Queen St. W., Toronto, ON M6R 1A4 | $$
19. Miku
When it comes to Toronto restaurants that go above and beyond, Miku is the name that comes to mind. This restaurant in Toronto is known for being one of the first to offer fine aburi (flame-seared) sushi dining in Toronto. It's also consistently ranked as serving some of the best sushi in Toronto.
The Vibe
Classy and elegant while still maintaining a fun atmosphere to celebrate special occasions with your friends and loved ones.
What to Order
The Aburi Oshi Sampler is a great choice for exploring the flavours of smoky salmon, ebi and saba oshi. The signature Miku Roll also offers a deliciously balanced bite.
Miku | 10 Bay St., Unit 105, Toronto, ON M5J 2R8 | $$$$
20. Sunny’s Chinese
Owned by the same chef as MIMI Chinese, Sunny’s Chinese is another modern take on the Chinese restaurant. However, this restaurant in Toronto is different from the rest — the entryway is quite unassuming but leads you to a dining experience that’s sure to impress.
The Vibe
Intimate and relaxed, this hidden gem resembles a speakeasy, gradually revealing a mellow atmosphere and an open kitchen. The unique vibe alone makes favourite Chinatown restaurant in Toronto.
What to Order
Try the Typhoon Shelter Squid for a taste of seafood, Guangdong style. The Blackbird HK French Toast is a new take on the classic treat, with black sesame jam and oolong condensed milk drizzled on top.
Sunny’s Chinese | 60 Kensington Ave., Units 6-14, Toronto, ON M5T 2K1 | $$$
21. Antler Kitchen & Bar
For modern Canadian cuisine inspired by fresh local ingredients, Antler Kitchen & Bar absolutely fits the bill. This restaurant in Toronto on Dundas West serves a menu of dishes inspired by regional meats and flavours.
The Vibe
A rustic atmosphere, full of wooden artwork of Canadian wildlife and tight-knit seating for a cozy and familial feel. This is a great place to explore more modern flavours when it comes to Toronto food.
What to Order
The venison tartare with in-house pickles placed delicately on top of rye crackers is a savoury appetizer that you have totry. For the more adventurous, try the bison ribeye and duck heart yakitori.
Antler Kitchen & Bar | 1454 Dundas St. W., Toronto, ON M6J 1Y6 | $$$
22. Mapo Korean BBQ
Gather a group of friends and head to Mapo Korean BBQ, a restaurant in Toronto well known for its selection of quality meats, heartening soups, refreshing banchan (side dishes) and classic drinks.
The Vibe
A lively environment with comfy booth seating, great for conversations while sharing food. Decorated with authentic Korean posters and signs, this is one of the most quirky Toronto Korean BBQ restaurants.
What to Order
Go for the sweet and flavourful beef bulgogi, marinated beef ribs and the honeycomb pork belly. Make sure to sample the banchan dishes as well to balance out your meal.
Mapo Korean BBQ | 708 Bloor St. W., Toronto, ON M6G 1L4 | $$
23. Richmond Station
Neighbourhood restaurants in Toronto, especially in today’s busy downtown area, can seem rare to find. But since opening its doors in 2012, Richmond Station has changed that with a reliable menu of creative items, fresh local ingredients and friendly service.
The Vibe
Bright and neighbourly, this restaurant in Toronto holds a great sense of love and nostalgia for the city, as seen in the framed photographs of Toronto throughout the years hanging on the walls.
What to Order
The Cookstown Potato Agnolotti bursts flavour, featuring black kale, creamy garlic-chile butter, pickled onions and crumbly potato croutons. For sharing, the roasted suckling pig is popular. Don't miss out on ordering dessert at this restaurant in Toronto either.
Richmond Station | 1 Richmond St. W., Toronto, ON M5H 3W4 | $$$
24. Little Sister
Little Sister is a Dutch-Indonesian speakeasy bar and restaurant in Toronto. With two locations, a completely shareable menu and fun signature drinks to boot, this is a great stop for anyone looking for the most fun foodie things to do in Toronto.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is cool, fun and lively with intimate lighting and seating that creates a great ambiance for celebrating the weekend’s arrival.
What to Order
The War Fries are a great shareable snack to keep you going all night, especially when paired with the grilled satay ayam which comes with a tasty peanut sauce. You also can’t go wrong with a signature cocktail or mocktail as well.
Little Sister | Multiple Locations | $$
25. Baro
Baro is easily one of the best restaurants Toronto has to offer when it comes to modern Latin cuisine. Boasting three floors, each with distinct purposes, it would only make sense to be curious about what each has to offer. And undoubtedly, it’s inevitable to want to try them all.
The Vibe
Suave, refined and modern, this restaurant in Toronto transports visitors with its arched doorways and hanging plants.
What to Order
For dinner, make sure not to miss the OG Duck Chaufa, Baro’s signature dish, which consists of a rich duck confit on a bed of seasoned Peruvian fried rice. Alternatively, try the lomo saltado if you’re in the mood for buttery beef tenderloin.
Baro | 485 King St. W., Toronto, ON M5V 1K4 | $$$
26. Café Polonez
Café Polonez is the place to be when you’re looking for a warm homestyle Polish meal at a restaurant in Toronto. Everything is made with the freshest of ingredients and earnest dedication, which only adds to the cozy neighbourhood ambiance.
The Vibe
Tiled floors and dark wooden seating amid walls of scenes from old Europe help set a calm, relaxed tone reminiscent of simpler times.
What to Order
The Polonez Schnitzel is prepared with pork or chicken, fried to a shimmering golden brown and served with fried mushrooms and a side of hearty potatoes and salad. For a comforting soup, try the white borscht.
Café Polonez | 195 Roncesvalles Ave., Toronto, ON M6R 2L5 | $$
27. Anh Dao
On a cold winter day or during rainy weather, nothing soothes the soul like a warm bowl of pho. Anh Dao offers exactly that and more with its extensive menu of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. This Chinatown restaurant in Toronto provides welcoming service for visitors and locals alike.
The Vibe
Chic and modern, with colourful artwork on the walls depicting Vietnamese fare. Green plants and wooden slats add to the open, natural energy of the space.
What to Order
For classic pho lovers, try the house special or rare beef and beef ball combo. The grilled betel leaf wrap, which bursts with fragrant flavour, is also an excellent option.
Anh Dao | 383 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5T 2G6 | $$
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There are so many top-quality restaurants in Toronto, from longstanding gems to newer additions. This city is truly a multicultural haven for food lovers everywhere. Whether you’re missing the taste of home or looking to try something completely new and out of your comfort zone, there's a restaurant in Toronto for you.
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