Aliu IsaBloor-Yorkville is known for luxury boutiques, chic art galleries, and, of course, incredible food—the kind that you’ll be drooling over weeks after you’ve consumed it.
Sure, they have fine dining restaurants that I go to whenever I’m feeling fancy (Michelin-starred, no less). But they also have trendy cocktail spots for fun booze nights, as well as cozy patios, when I feel like people-watching.
Basically, this Toronto culinary hotspot has it all. And as a resident local foodie, I don’t say those words lightly.
Now, I know you’re dying to make the rounds in the area, so I made a highly curated Bloor-Yorkville food guide that won’t disappoint you (I promise!). With this handy roundup, you’ll soon be dining at these legendary restaurants.
Aburi Hana
– Media credit: hanayorkville
Website: https://www.aburihana.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hanayorkville/
Address: 102 Yorkville Ave, Unit 4, Lower Level
Hours: Mon – Sun: 5:30 PM – 12 AM
Contact: +1 647-343-8887
Must-Order: Signature Kyo Kaiseki (12-Course)
Aburi Hana takes Japanese fine-dining to a whole new level—no wonder it earned a Michelin star. It’s led by Executive Chef Ryusuke Nakagawa, who trained under Kyoto’s master chefs and worked in a three-star Michelin restaurant.
This spot is dedicated to Kyo Kaiseki dining, where every course is beautifully curated to match the season. The Signature Kyo Kaiseki 12-course experience is to die for. Even though it’s priced at $430 per guest, I think it’s absolutely worth it.
What’s cool is that they specialize in its namesake technique: aburi, which means flame-seared. Imagine creations with salmon or A4 wagyu, kissed by fire, giving them a smoky depth and an umami punch.
As expected, slots are quite limited, so book well in advance to snag a seat. And by that, I mean weeks ahead.
Pro Tip:
With its minimalist, luxurious elegance, Aburi Hana is definitely worth dressing up for.
Alobar Yorkville
– Media credit: alobarrestaurants
Website: https://thealobar.com/alobar-yorkville/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alobarrestaurants/
Address: 162 Cumberland St, Yorkville
Hours: Mon-Sun: 5 PM–10:30 PM
Contact: (416) 961-1222
Must-Order: Salmon Crudo
Alobar is a gorgeous spot with a greenery-filled terrace draped in fairy lights—perfect for date nights or casual catch-ups. This One-Starred Michelin restaurant is led by Chef Patrick Kriss, who trained in New York and Paris.
As expected, their French-inspired menu is packed with raw dishes, seafood, and perfectly cooked meat. If you’re in the mood for oysters, lobster, beef carpaccio, and duck confit pappardelle, this is the place to go.
My favorite is their melt-in-your-mouth Salmon Crudo—light, silky, and full of fresh citrus notes that are very addictive. With this dish alone, it’s easy to see why they’re hailed as one of the best restaurants in Yorkville.
I recommend pairing your meal with one of their expertly crafted cocktails or a glass of chilled white wine—it is a bar after all!
Pro Tip:
If you can, snag a spot on their magical patio area. During the summer, reservations are highly recommended, since outside seats go fast for a reason.
Enigma
– Media credit: enigmayorkville
Website: https://www.enigmayorkville.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enigmayorkville/?hl=en
Address: 23 St Thomas St
Hours:
Tue – Thurs: 5 PM – 9:30 PM
Fri – Sat: 12 PM – 2:30 PM, 5 PM – 9:30 PM
Contact: +1 416-323-3332
Must-Order: 10-Course Tasting Menu
Enigma is a European-inspired, Michelin-starred restaurant that you just can’t miss. The stunning space—imagine mosaic tiles and golden lighting—is ideal for dates (or maybe a special self-care day).
It’s helmed by Chef Quinton Bennet, who trained in kitchens that have earned Michelin stars. He crafts dishes from local Canadian ingredients: delicate seafood, perfectly aged meats, and seasonal vegetables.
His true showpiece is the 10-Course Tasting Menu, which nets around $220 per guest. Each thoughtfully plated creation arrives like a piece of edible art, so you’d want to take your time and enjoy.
Their wine list is as impressive as the menu itself, featuring a mix of classic old-world bottles and modern styles. If wine isn’t your thing, their non-alcoholic and crafted cocktail pairings are equally inspired.
Pro Tip:
Give someone an unforgettable dining experience at Enigma via their online gift cards. The recipient can simply email [email protected] to book their reservation.
Sofia
– Media credit: sofiayorkville
Website: https://sofiayorkville.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sofiayorkville/
Address: 99 Yorkville Ave
Hours:
Mon-Wed: 5 PM–12 AM
Thurs-Fri: 5 PM–1 AM
Saturday: 10:30 AM–1 AM
Sunday: 10:30 AM–12 AM
Contact: (416) 479-8974
Must-Order: Branzino
If you’re craving Italian, I recommend visiting Sofia. Their fantastic menu pays homage to Italy with refined dishes that highlight quality ingredients and timeless techniques.
My go-to order here is their beautiful Branzino, prepared simply with caper leaf, lemon, and olive oil. I also get the Rigatoni alla Vodka—tomato sauce and Parmigiano Reggiano equals pure comfort in a bowl.
I love the ambiance here. The moment you walk in, you’ll see world-famous pieces like Banksy and Mrs. Brainwash, thanks to their partnership with the neighboring Taglialatella Galleries.
And behind the stunning bar, master mixologist Nishan Chandra shakes up inventive cocktails, while sommelier Christina Brown makes sure every sip and bite complement each other.
Pro Tip:
Here’s a treat for local pasta lovers: Sofia reserves Sundays for Carb Night. All pasta dishes and desserts are half price, so grab your crew and carbo-load in style!
Amal
– Media credit: amaltoronto
Website: http://www.amaltoronto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amaltoronto/
Address: 131 Bloor St W 2nd Floor
Hours:
Monday: 5 PM – 10 PM
Tue – Wed: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
Thurs – Fri: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11 PM
Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10 PM
Contact: (416) 551-9929
Must-Order: Veal Tenderloin
Amal offers exquisite modern Lebanese cuisine that’s as sophisticated as their surroundings. Inside this bright restaurant, you’ll see calming hues of soft blues, dusty rose, and warm terracotta.
Executive Chef Ronyu Ghaleb brings rich culinary traditions to life in mezze platters overflowing with earthy spices and fragrant herbs. I recommend his mouthwatering Veal Tenderloin, which is grilled to juicy perfection.
For perfect pairings, he brought in master mixologist Nishan to create cocktails that capture the spirit of Lebanon, such as Bloor Rendez-Vous or Beirut Mule.
And don’t dare leave without getting dessert. Their scrumptious Sticky Date Cake—served with luscious butterscotch sauce and creamy vanilla ice cream—is known to be the best in the city!
Pro Tip:
Weather-permitting, head over to their second-floor heated patio. This airy, bohemian space is a beautifully landscaped hideaway filled with plush pillows and greenery.
Sassafraz
– Media credit: thesassafraz
Website: https://www.sassafraz.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesassafraz
Address: 100 Cumberland St
Hours:
Mon – Wed, Sun: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
Thurs – Sat: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
Contact: +1 416-964-2222
Must-Order: Ontario Beef Tartare
Under Chef Geoff Webb, Sassafraz serves impeccable modern French and Canadian cuisine, with ingredients sourced from Ontario farms and producers. That’s probably why this has been the foodie hotspot of celebs like Mick Jagger and Bono.
I’ve actually attended a couple of events in this gorgeous Victorian rowhouse. Their 10,000 square feet of space is spread across two levels, making it the ideal venue for intimate, special gatherings.
My favorite feature is their incredible living wall inside, a gorgeous vertical garden of succulents and seasonal blooms illuminated by a skylight.
As for food, you should order their yummy Ontario Beef Tartare, a house favorite featuring finely chopped beef topped with a quail egg, Manchego cheese, and horseradish cream. A cool bonus: it’s served with crispy house chips.
Pro Tip:
For pure weekend brunch bliss, make your way to Sassafraz. After a long week, you deserve the French toast of your dreams paired with a lovely mimosa!
Trattoria Nervosa
– Media credit: nervosato
Website: https://eatnervosa.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nervosato/
Address: 75 Yorkville Ave
Hours: Monday: 12 PM–10 PM
Contact: (416) 961-4642
Must-Order: Mafalde Ai Funghi
Trattoria Nervosa is a sunny yellow corner house that radiates warmth and charm. I adore its European-style architecture and lush planter boxes.
The team takes pride in serving Southern Italian cuisine—hearty dishes crafted with love and tradition. I swear, each plate feels like it could have come straight from Nonna’s kitchen in Naples.
A dish you can’t miss is the Mafalde Ai Funghi, a rich and earthy pasta made with various types of mushrooms: portobello, porcini, crimini, and oyster. It’s luxurious without being heavy, capturing the essence of rustic Italian comfort food.
If you can, go upstairs and enjoy their breezy rooftop terrace. It’s the best spot to sip wine and enjoy pasta during the summer.
Pro Tip:
For special celebrations, book one of Trattoria’s private dining options in the main dining room and the upstairs lounge. You can even choose between a sit-down dinner or a buffet-style setup.
ONE Restaurant
– Media credit: onerestaurantto
Website: https://onerestaurant.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onerestaurantto/
Address: 116 Yorkville Ave
Hours: Mon-Sun: 7 AM–12 AM
Contact: (416) 961-9600
Must-Order: Short Rib with Roasted Red Peppers
When locals think of ONE Restaurant, a word instantly springs to mind: upscale. Led by Executive Chef Darby Piquette, the menu is packed with dishes that highlight the best of seasonal, locally produced ingredients.
A must-have here is their fall-off-the-bone Short Rib with Roasted Red Peppers. Served with walnuts, pomegranate molasses, and rich jus, it offers an unbeatable combo of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
You can’t serve top-tier food in an ordinary setting, so it’s a good thing this space inside the Hazelton Hotel is designed by the award-winning firm, Yabu Pushelberg. It features low lighting, textured walls, and a warm, candlelit glow, and its patio is equally stunning.
If you’re bringing a car, they offer thoughtful complimentary parking for up to two hours, which is rare in Yorkville.
Pro Tip:
Note that ONE has a dress code to keep the atmosphere polished and refined. So leave the hoodies, flip flops, and joggers at home and dress to impress (anything from smart casual, cocktail, semi-formal, etc.).
Café Boulud
– Media credit: burgersto
Website: https://www.cafeboulud.com/toronto/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cafebouludto/
Address: 60 Yorkville Ave
Hours: Mon-Sun: 7 AM – 11 AM, 11:45 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 10 PM
Contact: (416) 963-6000
Must-Order: Tartare de Boeuf
Café Boulud is located inside the elegant Four Seasons Hotel, helmed by the world-renowned Chef Daniel Boulud. You know you’re in for a treat when you’re being served by the title-holder of Chef of the Year by Bon Appétit.
The spot’s Lyonnaise menu is a love letter to France, blending classic brasserie favorites with modern flair. My personal pick is their Tartare de Boeuf, a beautifully seasoned dish with egg yolk puree, pickled accompaniments, and lettuce cups.
No French meal (or any meal for that matter) is complete without dessert. You should end on a sweet note with their freshly baked Lemon Madeleines—warm, delicate, and dusted with powdered sugar.
For a nightcap, you can head downstairs to D Bar, the Four Seasons’ stylish lounge. They serve amazing, timeless classics, as well as creative new concoctions.
Pro Tip:
Café Boulud is truly inclusive, offering a dedicated vegetarian and vegan a la carte menu upon request. That way, no one misses out on a true French dining affair.
Kasa Moto
– Media credit: kasa_moto
Website: https://kasamoto.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kasa_moto/
Address: 115 Yorkville Ave
Hours: Mon – Sun: 12 PM – 12 AM
Contact: +1 647-477-0423
Must-Order: Chicken Karaage
Kasa Moto is definitely one of Toronto’s most stylish Japanese restaurants. You’ll be amazed at the gorgeous space, with hand-painted koi gliding across the wall, and warm, wooden tables and ceilings that match.
Seafood and meat lovers would enjoy their menu—it features everything, from cold and hot plates of fresh sushi, robata-grilled meats, and hearty mains. My can’t-miss dish here is the Chicken Karaage; crispy, golden perfection drizzled with a ginger sake glaze.
I recommend pairing it with their Thai Collins, a refreshing mix of gin, ginger juice, lemongrass syrup, and lime. This is just the thing to balance those rich, savory bites.
You can kick your meal up a notch by heading to their rooftop patio with a view of the lane below (you’ll find the door on the side of the restaurant). It’s a sprawling, tree-lined terrace, with heaters for those cooler nights.
Pro Tip:
Celebrate your next anniversary, birthday, or promotion by booking a reservation at Bar Moto, their beautifully designed penthouse lounge. It’s bright, airy, and even features a full-service bar.
STK Steakhouse
– Media credit: eatstk
Website: https://stksteakhouse.com/location/toronto/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatstk
Address: 153 Yorkville Ave
Hours:
Mon – Thurs: 4 PM – 11 PM
Friday: 3 PM – 12 AM
Sat – Sun: 11 AM – 12 AM
Contact: +1 416-613-9660
Must-Order: Braised Beef Short Rib
If you want to visit an upscale version of a classic steakhouse, now’s your chance—STK is part fine dining spot, part grill house, and part lounge. It’s also a global franchise, with locations in Las Vegas, Milan, London, Ibiza, and of course, Toronto.
Their signature menu features premium steakhouse staples, a raw bar, and a dedicated Wagyu section (yum!) for those who want to indulge.
Your meal kicks off with a complimentary homemade sourdough pull-apart bread. It’s brushed with blue cheese and served with a drizzle of chive oil, which makes it dangerously addictive.
For the entree, I recommend their top-notch Braised Beef Short Rib. Served with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted pepper relish, and a rich red wine glaze, it’s both comforting and elevated.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss STK’s DJ, who spins most nights starting around six. I recommend snagging a spot near the fireplace or the stylish bar if you want to enjoy the good vibes with chill music.
Hemingway’s Restaurant & Bar
– Media credit: Hemingways.to/
Website: https://hemingways.to/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Hemingways.to/
Address: 142 Cumberland St
Hours:
Mon – Fri: 11 AM – 2 AM
Sat – Sun: 10 AM – 2 AM
Contact: (416) 968-2828
Must-Order: New Zealand Lamb Shank
Hemingway’s Restaurant & Bar has been a local favorite for decades, and it’s not hard to understand why. This Kiwi-owned Toronto institution, decked out in New Zealand road signs and memorabilia, feels like your iconic friendly neighborhood bar.
Try their New Zealand Lamb Shank, and tell me you don’t like it—I dare you! The meat is slowly raised until tender and finished with mint gravy and creamy garlic mash, and roasted root veggies.
I normally order a local craft beer here, but if you’re feeling fancy, you can’t go wrong with their Hemmy’ Spicy Margarita. Made with tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and housemade jalapeno syrup, it’s shaken on the rocks with a zesty Tajin rim.
And if you’re planning to go on the weekend, their brunch is a must, served from 11 AM to 3 PM. Their menu features classics like Bennys, avocado toast, smoked salmon, and corned beef hash.
Pro Tip:
Open year-round, Hemingway is known for its multi-level patio, which is covered and heated in winter and misted in summer. The upper level even has its own bar, which is pretty cool.
