Kandice VincentAfter catching an amazing show at the Princess of Wales Theatre, we went to a nearby random eatery to chow down on some post-show grub.
Man, were we disappointed! The food was meh, the service was slow—it was a real downer, which low-key ruined our night.
So, we asked fellow locals—you know, our BFFs, our fam, even that random fancy dude we met once—for the lowdown on the best places to grab a bite before or after a show.
Then, we rolled up our sleeves and went to work (and by work we mean we ate our way through town).
Without further ado, here’s our ultimate list of the best restaurants near the Princess of Wales Theatre. No thanks are necessary—just give them a go to honor our belly-busting efforts!
PAI
Website: paitoronto.com
Instagram: instagram.com/PaiToronto
Address: 18 Duncan St, Toronto, ON M5H 3G8
Hours:
- Monday: 4 PM – 9:30 PM
- Tue – Thurs, Sun: 12 PM – 9:30 PM
- Fri – Sat: 12 PM – 10 PM
Contact: (416) 901-4724
If you’re craving authentic Thai flavors, PAI is the spot to hit up before or after catching a show at the Princess of Wales Theatre.
Chef Nuit’s culinary journey began on an elephant ride, where she met her future husband. Since then, her talent has shone bright, earning her awards like the Nine of Dine and a spot as a judge on Food Network’s Wall of Chefs.
The restaurant itself is lovely, with its open kitchen and salvaged doors straight from Thailand.
Let’s talk about the food—divided into snacks, starters, and mains, it’s all meant to be shared family-style.
You can’t go wrong with classics like their Tom Yum Kung Mor Fai, a hot and sour shrimp soup served in a traditional Thai hot pot. And don’t miss out on the grilled beef salad, bursting with tangy lime sauce and crispy shallots.
For the impulsive foodies, walk-ins are always welcome!
Pro Tip:
If you’re planning to visit PAI for lunch, make sure to snag a reservation or arrive between 12:00 and 2:00 PM for a spot. And for a pre- or post-show dinner, swing by after 5:00 PM to savor their delicious Thai offerings.
Fox on John
Website: foxonjohn.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/foxonjohn
Address: 106 John St #3, Toronto, ON M5V 2E1
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 2 AM
Contact: (647) 748-0369
Fox on John offers a convenient spot for a meal before or after catching a show at the Princess of Wales Theatre since it’s just around the corner.
Their pre- and post-show menu caters to all tastes and is also reasonably priced, especially during happy hour. Speaking of happy hour, signature cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, and champagne are all on offer, with special promos available.
Dining with a group? We recommend their lamb platter, a royal feast with succulent meat, crispy fries, and flavorful sides.
Daily brunch is also on the menu until 4 PM—ideal for a pre-show meal.
Plus, their sidewalk patio is perfect for soaking up the sun while enjoying drinks and pub grub with a view of the CN Tower.
After 9 PM, Fox on John transforms into a lively nightlife destination with affordable drinks, live DJs, and big screens for catching major games.
Pro Tip:
For steak lovers, Fox on John’s Diane Striploin is a must-try, featuring a juicy 10-oz striploin. This beauty is paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes and a medley of beets, all topped with rich Diane sauce—delish!
Earls Kitchen + Bar
Website: earls.ca/locations/financial–district
Instagram: instagram.com/earlsrestaurant
Address: 150 King St W #100, Toronto, ON M5H 1J9
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 11:30 AM – 2 AM
- Sat – Sun: 11 AM – 2 AM
Contact: (416) 916-0227
Earls Kitchen + Bar is situated within the Manulife Centre and conveniently close to the Bay & Bloor subway station. It’s ideal for both pre and post-Princess of Wales Theatre outings.
One of our faves from their menu is their Cajun sirloin accompanied by fresh veggies and mashed potatoes.
If you’re with a group and in the mood to splurge, try their yummy seafood tower, featuring oysters, prawn cocktails, yuzu tuna tataki, and more!
Additionally, their Happy Hour specials and enticing drink features cater to every taste, offering a selection of cocktails, wines, and beers.
During the summer months, guests can bask in the beauty of their solarium, adorned with lush vines and flowers. It also has a charming variety of seating options, like benches adorned with pillows, patio chairs, bar stools, and couches.
And, customers have been raving about their attentive service, especially how they’re totally cool with catering to allergies.
Pro Tip:
For those arriving by car, Earls offers free parking with a $50+ spend. We love this convenient perk for guests driving to their location, so don’t forget to take advantage of this!
La Carnita
Website: lacarnita.com
Instagram: instagram.com/la_carnita
Address: 106 John St, Toronto, ON M5H 1X9
Hours:
- Mon – Wed, Sun: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Thurs – Sat: 12 PM – 12 AM
Contact: (647) 348-1166
La Carnita is where you go for a taco feast, killer churros, and groovy tunes, all in a space decked out by local street artists. It’s a two-floor hotspot, so expect a packed house eager to dive into towering tacos that defy graceful eating.
It has a lively urban vibe—with its colorful graffiti murals—and pumping music (most often, RnB) that keeps the fiesta alive.
Don’t miss their yummy scorpion wings—crispy confit chicken wings drenched in a fiery chili sauce. And if you’re feeling adventurous, dive into their squash quesadillas, packed with cheesy goodness and sprinkled with pepitas.
Vegan tacos and dishes are available for plant-based lovers out there! Some recommended ones are their vegan chorizo taco, sweet potato taco, and Portobello mushroom tostada.
Save room for their delectable dessert options. Think sugar-coated churros oozing cajeta, or overloaded paletas and ice cream cones from Sweet Jesus, right next door.
Pro Tip:
If you’re wondering about La Carnita’s drink options, they have margaritas by the pitcher and craft cocktails like the ‘Partymom,’ a refreshing blend of rum, Cointreau, and their signature agua fresca. Oh, and they’ve got beers, too!
Byblos
Website: byblosdowntown.com
Instagram: instagram.com/byblostoronto
Address: 11 Duncan St, Toronto, ON M5V 3M2
Hours:
- Mon – Wed, Sun: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Thurs – Sat: 5 PM – 11 PM
Contact: (647) 660-0909
Situated within the Storys Building, Byblos draws inspiration from the Eastern Mediterranean. It has a bright, airy ambiance, adorned with geometric tiles and gem-cut furnishings.
Start with their traditional mezze plates, like the house-made labneh paired with fresh bread—a match made in heaven.
Every day, their Barbari bread is freshly baked in the wood oven at Patria, then delicately adorned with olive oil and sprinkled with dukkah. It’s an Egyptian spice blend comprising ground hazelnuts, coriander seeds, and sesame.
They also have Turkish manti dumplings, delicately wrapped around a smoky eggplant filling and baked in yogurt sauce.
Upstairs, a sultry lounge awaits, perfect for sinking into luxe booths and sipping on cocktails crafted by Wes Galloway. Speaking of cocktails, try the Gulab, a fragrant concoction of rosehip vodka and house-made pomegranate reduction.
The menu, curated by Stuart Cameron, encourages a shared experience, so gather your theatre-going crew and dive into their flavorful family and group platter offerings.
Pro Tip:
Are you a fellow sun worshipper? If so, make sure to snag a spot on Byblos’ patio for some al fresco dining when warmer weather rolls around.
Fran’s Restaurant
Website: fransrestaurant.com
Instagram: instagram.com/fransrestaurant
Address: 200 Victoria St, Toronto, ON M5B 2R3
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 304-0085
Fran’s Restaurant has quite the backstory—it all began in 1918 when Francis Deck and his brother kicked off refreshments in Buffalo, NY. Since then, it has become a Toronto institution, serving up all-day breakfast alongside other delicious treats!
Their menu boasts salads, soups, wraps, pasta, steak, ribs, and homemade burgers.
For theatregoers who love breakfast, this eatery is ideal, offering fluffy pancakes, build-your-own omelets, or yummy sandwiches. Hearty meals are also available before or after a show.
Try their braised beef eggs Benedict—the creamy hollandaise sauce mixes perfectly with the savory braised beef. Another must-try is their banana waffle, a light and fluffy delight served with fresh fruit.
Families will appreciate Fran’s kid-friendly atmosphere, complete with high chairs for the little ones.
Pro Tip:
Fran Restaurant is open 24/7, offering coffee with free refills around the clock—perfect for those late-night cravings or early-morning pick-me-ups.
Elephant & Castle
Website: elephantcastle.com/en/locations/on/toronto/212-king-street-west
Instagram: instagram.com/elephantcastle
Address: 212 King St W, Toronto, ON M5H 1K5
Hours:
- Monday: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Tue – Wed: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Thurs – Sat: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 10 AM
Contact: (416) 598-4455
If you’re wondering why it’s named Elephant & Castle, it’s not about a strange animal and an old fortress, but a nod to a cool neighborhood in London. This is a local hangout where you can catch a game with your pals and dig into some British-inspired grub.
Even though they’re known for their meaty classics, they’ve got options for lacto-ovo vegetarians too—salads, pies, flatbreads, you name it. To give you a hint, any menu item with a vegetarian icon can be turned into a vegetarian dish!
Don’t know what to pick? Give their Wee Pie Flight a go, offering a sample size of all their four types of pot pies.
Conveniently close to St. Andrew subway station, it’s the perfect spot for a quick bite before or after a show at Princess of Wales and Mirvish Theatres or Scotiabank Arena.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss Elephant & Castle’s Happy Hour, where you can snag $6 share plates and drinks. You can also have a blast building your own Gin & Tonic or sipping on a Royal Pimm’s Cup!
Miku
Website: mikutoronto.com
Instagram: instagram.com/mikutoronto
Address: 10 Bay St. #105, Toronto, ON M5J 2R8
Hours:
- Mon, Sun: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Tue – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 9 PM
- Fri – Sat: 12 PM – 10 PM
Contact: (647) 347-7347
At Miku, you’ll find a slice of culinary heaven just a short hop from the Princess of Wales Theatre. With its sleek design and spacious patio, it’s the perfect spot to unwind before or after a show.
They’re famous for their delicious Salmon Aburi—juicy, buttery, and perfectly cooked fish atop quality rice.
Plus, they’ve got seasonal tasting menus like the Cherry Blossom Tasting Menu, featuring a lineup of mouthwatering dishes like Arctic Char and A5 Wagyu.
Save room for dessert because their Japanese and European-inspired sweets are made in-house and are the cherry on top of your pre- or post-show dining experience.
Their beverage program is also top-notch, with signature cocktails, wines, and a sake list that’ll impress even the most discerning connoisseurs. And if you’re not sure what to pair with your meal, the staff is always ready with expert suggestions.
Pro Tip:
Oh, and if you’re looking for a more intimate dining experience for your group of theatre-loving friends, Miku has a private dining room. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a quiet night out.
Milagro Cantina
Website: milagrorestaurant.com
Instagram: instagram.com/milagro_cantina
Address: 5 Mercer St, Toronto, ON M5V 1H2
Hours:
- Mon – Wed: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Thurs – Fri: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 9 PM
Contact: (416) 850-2855
Milagro Cantina is the go-to spot for rustic Mexican cuisine and an awesome tequila selection, making it the perfect pre- or post-show hangout. Founded by brothers, it brings the flavors of Mexico City to Toronto with dishes inspired by their roots.
From classic tortilla soup to hearty chiles rellenos, the menu is bursting with authentic Mexican flavors that’ll transport you south of the border. Be forewarned: Chef Arturo isn’t shy with the habanero heat, so brace yourself for some serious spice!
Their signature “Mole Poblano” is a must-try, a rich and flavorful dish featuring roasted chicken smothered in a house-made mole sauce with a kick of habanero heat.
For seafood lovers, try their Toastadita De Pulpo—a tender octopus packed with zesty lime, tomatillo, and chipotle chilies en adobo.
Wash it down with one of their refreshing margaritas, like the cucumber margarita, perfectly balanced to cool down your palate.
Pro Tip:
If you’re in the mood for a traditional Mexican dessert, go for their Flan De Queso Al Caramelo. We recommend pairing it with a smooth sipping tequila for the ultimate sweet and savory finale!
Marked
Website: markedrestaurant.com
Instagram: instagram.com/markedrestaurant
Address: 132 John St, Toronto, ON M5V 2E3
Hours:
- Tue – Thurs: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Friday: 5 PM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM – 3:30 PM, 5 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Contact: (647) 660-7948
Marked is a culinary journey straight from the heart of Latin America, thanks to Maria Morales’ adventurous spirit. Her menu blends traditional techniques with a modern twist, perfect for a pre-theatre dinner.
The restaurant offers various spaces to explore, from the lively Pan-Am Lounge with its tropical cocktails, to the Corsair cocktail bar specializing in made-to-order infusions.
As you venture through, the aroma of grilled delights beckons from the kitchen, promising exquisite meals cooked over an open flame.
Their signature Marked ceviche is a must-try, featuring market fish with sweet potato, avocado, and crunchy Peruvian corn bathed in a tangy leche de tigre.
For a main course, the roof tile fish steals the show, grilled sea bream served whole, stuffed with salsa verde, and bursting with flavor.
While the handcrafted cocktails and curated wine list pay homage to Latin America’s vibrant nightlife, the DJ sets the perfect mood with a stellar playlist.
Pro Tip:
Just a heads up though, the music at Marked can get loud inside, making it tricky to communicate. This place would be better suited for fun nights out rather than intimate dates.
Vagabondo Restobar
Website: vagabondo.com
Instagram: instagram.com/vagabondorestobar
Address: 310 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3A4
Hours:
- Monday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Tue – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
- Fri – Sat: 11:30 AM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
Contact: (416) 862-1999
Vagabondo Restobar is situated near King Street Station, offering a fusion of traditional Italian cuisine and modern vibes.
Their menu boasts classic Italian favorites like pasta, pizzas, and grills, all served with a contemporary twist.
We enjoyed their pappardelle funghi, where perfectly cooked pasta meets a generous portion of chicken in a flavorful sauce.
For those craving comfort food, their spaghetti bolognese and veal parm hit all the right spots, while the eggplant parmigiana is a cheesy delight that’s almost a meal on its own.
Make sure to grab a jar of their picante sauce if you’re into a bit of spice—it’s the perfect addition to any dish.
While you dine, groove to the tunes of their live DJ spinning downtempo beats every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night.
Pro Tip:
We suggest taking advantage of their validated parking offer at the Imperial Parking lot on Colborne Street, making your visit to Vagabondo hassle-free.
Minami
Website: https://www.minamitoronto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minamitoronto
Address: 225 King St W Suite 100, Toronto, ON M5V 3M2
Hours:
- Mon – Wed, Sat: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Thursday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Frid – Sat: 12 PM – 11 PM
Contact: (416) 519-9182
If you’re on the hunt for some seriously flame-seared sushi in Toronto, Minami is where it’s at! From the folks behind Miku, TORA, and Aburi Hana, this spot is all about the world-famous Aburi Oshi Sushi.
Walking in, you’ll be greeted by a stunning interior featuring a striking red-and-orange statement wall and a captivating mural by Japanese artist Hideki Kimura. It’s no wonder they won America’s Best Designed Restaurant in 2021.
Minami offers an innovative Japanese tapas experience that’s hard to beat. Offerings like Ebi Oshi topped with prawn and Japanese salted plum sauce or the signature Salmon Oshi with wild sockeye salmon and Miku’s special sauce are all delish!
Note that sweet soy sauce and fragrant spicy miso come on the side.
If you’re feeling fancy, splurge on the Miyazaki A5 Wagyu Tenderloin—it’s seared to perfection and worth every penny.
Pro Tip:
Is it your first time at Minami? Opt for the four-course tasting menu to get the full Minami experience—perfect for a post-theatre treat!
Petros82
Website: petros82.to
Instagram: instagram.com/petros82.to
Address: 299 Adelaide St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1P7
Hours:
- Monday: 4 PM – 10 PM
- Friday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Saturday: 5 PM – 11 PM
Contact: (416) 785-7400
For those looking for a taste of Greece in the heart of the city, we recommend Petros82, a gem from Peter. With its roots tracing back to 982, Petros82 is a love letter to his homeland.
They have an authentic Greek decor and a menu brimming with Mediterranean dishes, especially fresh seafood. From the daily selections of fish to the grilled calamari bursting with flavor, each dish promises to transport you to the shores of the Aegean Sea.
A crowd fave is their grilled octopus, served fresh from the seafood bar and garnished with one of chef Tony Andrady’s signature sauces.
And for a sweet finale, indulge in the sugar-coated doughnuts paired with baklava ice cream—a heavenly combination.
Its second-floor bar also doubles as a private event space. As a bonus, they even offer convenient underground parking!
Pro Tip:
Looking for the perfect cocktail to nurse before your theatre show? Try Petros82’s Santorini Sunrise cocktail for an agave-based, Greek-inspired flavor.
