Aliu IsaToronto’s food scene is just insane—but in a good way! It’s a delicious melting pot of local and global flavors that even celebs like Drake, Jason Momoa, and LeBron James can’t get enough of the 6ix’s culinary offerings.
So, as a foodie who’s explored every corner of this tasty town (with a little help from my hungry crew), I’d like to throw my hat in the ring. I’ve created a foodie’s list of who’s who in Toronto cuisine.
After plenty of testing (and maybe a few too many dessert runs), here’s the ultimate guide to Toronto’s top eats.
Antler Kitchen & Bar
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Website: https://www.antlerkitchenbar.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antlerkitchenbar/
Address: 1454 Dundas St W
Hours:
- Tue – Fri: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Sat – Sun: 3 PM – 10 PM
Contact: (647) 345-8300
Antler Kitchen & Bar is a cozy eatery that feels like a rustic cabin, and the menu is just as wild—literally. Chef Michael Hunter, the mastermind behind Antler, is known for his love of wild game and regional ingredients, and it shows in every dish.
Let’s start with our favorite—their Pan-Roasted Venison Rack. It’s beautifully plated with a velvety spring pea purée, tender glazed fingerling potatoes, fresh Ontario peas, and wild mushrooms that add that earthy vibe.
For seafood lovers, their BC Steelhead Trout is a total catch (pun intended). Picture this: a smoky tomato emulsion that wraps around ditalini pasta, with briny olive tapenade adding a pop of flavor.
Pro Tip:
Save room for dessert, namely their Ontario Peach & Semolina Cake. Imagine poached peaches with a creamy vanilla mascarpone ganache, sitting on top of a honey semolina cake—delish!
Richmond Station
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Website: https://richmondstation.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richmondstation/
Address: 1 Richmond St W
Hours:
- Tue – Fri: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM
- Sat – Sun: 3:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Contact: (647) 748-1444
Richmond Station opened in 2012 and has been delighting Toronto foodies with a menu crafted by Top Chef Canada winner Carl Heinrich. The focus here is great ingredients, great hospitality, and a dining experience that’s polished but never pretentious.
You have to try their signature Stn. Burger—pasture-raised beef cooked to perfection, slathered with garlic aioli and topped with beet chutney. And, if you’re gluten-free, just ask for their gluten-free option!
Now, for dessert lovers (and honestly, who isn’t?), their Caramel Apple “Cheesecake” is a must. It’s a buttermilk cake topped with cream cheese amaretto espuma (fancy for “deliciously creamy”), and paired with brown butter ice cream.
Pro Tip:
If you’re dining with friends, definitely order the Butcher’s Selection of Charcuterie to share. It’s a board of meat, pickles, preserves, mustards, and sourdough focaccia that’s perfect for nibbling while you sip on a cocktail or two.
House on Parliament
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Address: 454 Parliament St
Website: http://www.houseonparliament.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hop_to/
Phone Number: (416) 925-4074
Business Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 12 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
House on Parliament has been a go-to dining spot for over 20 years! This British-style pub offers plenty of seating across its multi-level space, including a rooftop and front patio, making it a neighborhood favorite.
One dish that’s earned legendary status is the Iconic Steak & Stilton Sandwich. Bite into a 6 oz Creekstone Black Angus NY strip loin, perfectly cooked and topped with creamy English stilton cheese and charred red onions, all sandwiched in a garlicky baguette.
If you’re more of a chicken fan, their Southern Fried Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich will hit the spot. The chicken is brined in pickle juice, fried to golden perfection, and layered with spicy chipotle aioli, coleslaw, and jalapeño Monterey jack cheese.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss House on Parliament’s weekend brunch served every Saturday, Sunday, and holiday from 11 am to 3 pm. With a front patio that seats 22 and a rooftop that can accommodate 50, it’s the perfect spot for brunching in style!
Black+Blue
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Website: https://blackandbluesteakhouse.ca/toronto-home/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bandbsteak/
Address: 130 King St W
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 11:30 AM – 12 AM
- Sat – Sun: 11 AM – 12 AM
Contact: (647) 368-8283
Black+Blue Toronto is a West End spot that brings all the steakhouse classics with a little extra flair and some of the world’s finest cuts of beef. They’re famous for their Dry-Aged Beef, aged for 28–45 days in a unique Himalayan salt-lined meat locker.
Impressively, they’re one of the few places in Canada that’s licensed to serve certified Japanese Kobe Beef. Go for the ribeye or striploin, and you’ll love the deep umami flavor from the “shimofuri” marbling that practically melts in your mouth.
You can’t have a perfect steak without the perfect sides, right? Try the crispy Brussels sprouts, tossed with lemon, capers, parmesan, and a hint of chilies for a zesty kick.
Pro Tip:
We recommend finishing your meal with their decadent Black+Blue Butter Cake—a slice of heaven topped with salted caramel sauce, chantilly cream, and fresh berries.
Le Baratin
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Website: https://www.lebaratin.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lebaratinyyz
Address: 1600 Dundas St W
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 5:30 PM – 10 PM
- Sat – Sun: 10 AM – 10 PM
Contact: (416) 534-8800
For a little slice of Paris in Toronto’s West End, look no further than Le Baratin. This cozy bistro serves up simple, flavorful French classics that make you feel like you’ve been transported straight to a Parisian café.
Start your meal with their Assiette de Charcuterie, a delightful platter featuring duck rillettes, countryside pâté, and Auvergne prosciutto. It’s a perfect mix of rich, savory flavors that pair beautifully with a glass of wine.
For dinner, you can’t go wrong with their steak frites. A marinated AAA striploin cooked to perfection, topped with a shallot sauce, and served alongside crisp mixed greens and golden frites—it’s the ultimate French comfort dish.
Pro Tip:
Stop by for Le Baratin’s weekend brunch, available Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. No reservations—just stroll in and enjoy a leisurely French brunch!
RASA
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Website: https://www.rasabar.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rasarestaurantto/
Address: 196 Robert St
Hours:
- Mon – Wed: 5 PM – 9:30 PM
- Thurs – Sat: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 5 PM – 9 PM
Contact: (647) 350-8221
RASA is a must-visit for anyone who loves global flavors wrapped up in a sleek, modern-industrial vibe. Park yourself at the four-seat chef’s counter and watch the culinary magic unfold or relax on the heated patio—it’s totally up to you!
Now, let’s talk food. Their 8 oz Hanger Steak is one for the books—juicy and perfectly seared, served with cippolini onions, horseradish dip, chimichurri, and rich beef tallow. And don’t miss the bone marrow, which comes with cider mushrooms and sourdough.
Pair your meal with the refreshing Apricot Gin Smash—an impressive mix of apricot-infused gin, lemon, white vermouth, elderflower, maraschino, and a hint of anise.
Pro Tip:
Stop by RASA for Tiki Hour from Sunday to Thursday, 5 PM – 6 PM, for a fun and delicious selection of happy hour Tiki drinks. Just a heads-up, they’re a cashless establishment, so be ready with your card!
PAI
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Website: https://www.paitoronto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paitoronto/
Address: 18 Duncan St
Hours:
- Monday: 4 PM – 9:30 PM
- Tue – Thurs: 11:45 AM – 9:30 PM
- Fri – Sat: 11:45 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 11:45 AM – 9:30 PM
Contact: (416) 901-4724
PAI, led by Chef Nuit Regular and her husband Jeff, has a cool, intimate vibe with salvaged doors from Thailand lining the walls. You can sink into a comfy chair or opt for a traditional floor cushion.
When it’s time to dig in, we recommend their Khao Soi. This coconut milk curry is loaded with egg noodles, topped with crispy ones, and green onions. You can choose between braised beef, chicken breast, shrimp, tofu & veggies, or even go vegan!
Another crowd favorite is the Chef Nuit Pad Thai—stir-fried rice noodles in a tangy tamarind-palm sugar sauce with beansprouts, tofu, and peanuts. Spice it up however you like, whether you’re after mild or want to brave the “Thai Spicy.”
Pro Tip:
Reservations at PAI are limited, but they love walk-ins! You can book a spot for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday lunches after 2 PM, and walk-ins are welcome before then.
Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos
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Website: https://sevenlivesto.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sevenlivesto/
Address: 72 Kensington Ave
Hours: Mon – Sun: 12 PM – 7 PM
Contact Details: https://sevenlivesto.ca/Contact
Seven Lives in Kensington Market has been serving up some of the freshest and tastiest Baja-style tacos since 2012. This little taco joint is all about big flavors and fresh ingredients, making it one of Toronto’s must-visit taco spots.
One of their most iconic tacos is the Gobernador, packed with house-smoked tuna, grilled shrimp, and melted cheese. Seafood fans will also love the Black Pepper Marlin Taco, topped with a creamy avocado sauce that’s just bursting with flavor.
If you’re more into meat, try their Al Pastor or Carnitas tacos, both packed with juicy pork. Feeling brave? Load your tacos with their trio of homemade spicy salsas for that extra kick.
Pro Tip:
Seven Lives does not take reservations, so arrive early to beat the line. Plus, there’s limited seating inside, so be ready to enjoy your tacos on the go!
Rodney’s Oyster House
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Website: https://rodneysoysterhouse.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rodneysoysterhouse/
Address: 469 King St W
Hours:
- Mon – Wed, Sun: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Thursday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Fri – Sat: 12 PM – 12 AM
Contact: (416) 363-8105
Since 1987, Rodney’s Oyster House has been serving some of the city’s best seafood, especially oysters. Before opening, Rodney “The Oysterman” was known for bringing the magic of oysters to homes and events across Upper Canada.
The daily oyster list changes based on what’s fresh, offering a variety from both Atlantic and Pacific coasts, plus a few from European waters. You’ll find everything from petite yet flavorful Kumamotos to gigantic flats from Maine and even a few Littleneck clams.
Doesn’t matter if you prefer them raw or with a twist, you’ll get your oysters with freshly grated horseradish, lemon wedges, and house-made sauces. Feel free to pair your oysters with a craft beer or dry white wine.
Pro Tip:
If you’re dining with a group, don’t miss out on the Smokers Platter—an epic spread featuring steelhead trout, salmon, mussels, and Danish-style smoked salmon.
Jacobs & Co. Steakhouse
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Website: http://www.jacobssteakhouse.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacobssteakhouse/
Address: 12 Brant St
Hours:
- Mon – Fri, Sun: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 5 PM – 10:30 PM
Contact Details: (416) 366-0200
Jacobs & Co. is the place for a luxe steakhouse, where you’ll often spot pro athletes, celebs, and the city’s power players celebrating in style. This spot has earned a spot on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list, landing at #73—and it’s easy to see why.
Start your meal with their iconic Caesar salad, made tableside with plenty of flair. Think of ingredients emulsified, cheese generously sprinkled, and lettuce expertly flipped before your eyes—it’s both dinner and a show!
When it comes to steak, their Kuroza Wagyu Sekai from Puslinch, Ontario is a must. Aged for 45 days, this sirloin is tender and packed with that incredible Wagyu flavor.
Pro Tip:
For dessert, Jacobs & Co.’s vanilla cheesecake is legendary. It’s a rich, creamy dome of deliciousness on a graham cracker base, perfectly balanced by bright, tart lemon curd, blueberry coulis, and a delicate lemon tuile.
Alo
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Website: https://alorestaurant.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alorestaurant/
Address: 163 Spadina Ave.
Hours: Tue-Sat: 5 PM–12 AM
Contact Details: (416) 260-2222
Perched on top of a heritage building in downtown Toronto is Alo. Opened in 2015, this Michelin-starred spot has become the go-to for anyone looking to dive into a luxurious dining experience that still feels totally approachable.
Their tasting menu is a two-hour food voyage with four savory courses and a decadent dessert at the end. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, the inventive kitchen sneaks in some extra surprises—keeping you on your toes in the best way possible.
A killer dish is their braised lamb, which is topped with a brunoise of preserved lemon and pickled ramp stems, giving you a little zing and tang. Pair that with yogurt and a vibrant medley of raw veggies—think turnip, treviso, and peas.
Pro Tip:
If you’re more into sipping than sitting, head to their adjacent barroom, which offers classically-inspired cocktails. Don’t miss the Tilting at Windmills, a frothy blend of Tanqueray, Bols Genever, Seville orange, and lemon.
DaiLo
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Website: https://www.dailoto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dailo.to
Address: 503 College St
Hours: Tue-Sun: 5 PM – 11 PM
Contact Details: (647) 341-8882
DaiLo, meaning “big brother” in Cantonese, is led by the talented chef-owner Nick Liu. His multicultural background shows in every dish and his French culinary training adds a layer of sophistication.
The menu here is a love letter to Liu’s upbringing. For instance, one of his childhood favorites, his parents’ steamed fortune cakes dipped in salted butter, is now a standout dessert—warm, sweet, and just the right amount of salt.
Definitely go for their crispy octopus tacos—tender octopus with just the right crunch, tucked inside a taco for a perfect bite. Of course, the braised pork is a fan favorite too—meltingly tender and full of rich, savory goodness.
Pro Tip:
If you’re feeling fancy, DaiLo offers multi-course tasting menus, perfect for those looking to splurge on an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Yasu
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Website: https://yasu-sushibar.com/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasu_toronto
Address: 81 Harbord St
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 6 PM – 11 PM
- Fri – Sun: 5 PM – 11:30 PM
Contact Details: (416) 944-8212
Yasu is a sushi lover’s dream come true and holds the title of Canada’s first Omakase sushi bar. Chef Yasu’s vision for his restaurant is to craft the kind of sushi that lets the ingredients speak for themselves—and trust us, they’ve got a lot to say!
Here, there’s only one menu option: Omakase, a chef’s choice tasting menu, where Chef Yasu picks the freshest seasonal fish for the day. For $185, you’ll get a Sushi Kaiseki experience that includes a kaiseki plate, soup, seasonal nigiri, and dessert.
The sushi here is expertly prepared—think ultra-fresh fish sliced just right and placed on top of warm, perfectly loose rice. Each piece gets a delicate brush of nikiri soy sauce—it’s sushi at its finest, with nothing unnecessary.
Pro Tip:
Yasu isn’t the place for vegetarians or anyone avoiding raw fish. But if you’re gluten-free or avoiding shellfish, make sure to let them know ahead of time!
