Best Restaurants in Toronto

Best Restaurants in Toronto

Canada, Toronto / By

Are you looking for the best restaurants in Toronto? Then, you have come to the right place. This Canadian city is a foodie’s paradise, featuring vibrant, colorful, and flavorful local dishes. The must-have item is Canada‘s national dish, Poutine, crispy French fries in thick, rich brown gravy topped with soft and creamy cheese curds. Other famous foods include peameal bacon sandwiches, Tourtière, Ketchup chips, sushi pizza, bannock, and butter tarts. Toronto’s culinary scene is shrouded with Canadian flair; its diverse flavors include other cuisines from Italian to French, Greek, Indian, and Thai. Newcomers won’t know where to go to try these delicious dishes. Hence, join us as we dive deep into this city’s culinary tapestry.

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Table Of Contents
  1. Canoe
  2. GEORGE Restaurant
  3. Alo
  4. La Palette
  5. DaiLo
  6. Restaurant 20 Victoria
  7. Richmond Station
  8. Som Tum Jinda
  9. Kiin
  10. Petros82
  11. The Butcher Chef
  12. Don Alfonso 1890
  13. Le Baratin
  14. Chiado Restaurant
  15. STK Steakhouse
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Canoe

Canoe
Finish your meal with a delicious dessert at Canoe. (Source: Canoe Facebook)

We begin our list with the Michelin-starred Canadian restaurant Canoe. For the last 25 years, it has been serving mouthwatering contemporary Canadian cuisine. Executive Chef Ron McKinlay utilizes his international cooking experience, works closely with gatherers, producers, and suppliers, and takes inspiration from Canada’s diverse landscapes to create unique dishes. He has planned new dishes for spring 2024. Using classic spring ingredients like lamb, peas, and herbs, his must-try dishes for this season are Crispy Oyster + Sea Lettuce Grissini, Scallop, Pig’s Trotter, Cod + Crab, Lamb, Rhubarb, Marigold, and Petit Fours.

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GEORGE Restaurant

GEORGE Restaurant
Try this menu: Chantreile Mushrooms, White Fazzoletti Pasta, and Corn at GEORGE Restaurant. (Source: GEORGE Restaurant Facebook)

It all started in 2003 in downtown Toronto when GEORGE Restaurant opened its doors for the first time. Led by Executive Chef Lorenzo Loseto, it quickly began receiving warm praises for its mouthwatering Canadian dishes, warm hospitality, and great ambiance. Located within a heritage building (a restored 1850s chocolate factory), the restaurant’s decor complements its vibrant fare. Hence, it’s no wonder GEORGE has appeared consecutively in the 2022 and 2023 Canadian editions of the Michelin Guide. If you want to amp up your experience, order Loseto’s signature Chef’s Choice tasting experiences. It is offered in five, seven, and ten courses and is customized according to each diner’s preferences.

Alo

Alo
Indulge in delicious French dishes at Alo. (Source: Alo Facebook)

Enjoy authentic French cuisine in downtown Toronto. Alo is a Michelin-starred contemporary French establishment located atop a heritage building downtown. It began operating in 2015 and soon became a famous dining place among locals and tourists. You can choose what to eat or try blind, multi-course tasting menus. The restaurant also offers an a la carte tasting menu of cocktails and beverages. It is open for casual dining or enjoying business dinners, family celebrations, and milestone occasions. You can also visit Alo’s sister establishments, Aloette, Alobar Downtown, Aloette Bay, and Alobar Yorkville.

La Palette

La Palette
Fill your stomach at La Palette. (Source: La Palette Instagram)

We have another French restaurant on our list, La Palette. The restaurant’s origin dates back to 2000. After ten years, it shifted to Queen Street West, where it has been serving classic French fare since. Expect mouthwatering escargots, tartare, foie gras, charcuteries, bouillabaisse, pâté, and horse steak. Its extensive wine menu features wines from France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Hungary, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Canada, Chile, and the USA. You can walk in or book a reservation before coming to the restaurant. It is pretty busy during the evenings, so booking in advance is best.

DaiLo

DaiLo
Enjoy Northern Thai sausage stuffed with zucchini blossom, green chili nam Jim, and nasturtium at DaiLo. (Source: DaiLo Facebook)

Next, it’s time for Asian cuisine. DaiLo is a Bi-level, teal-&-gold Asian brasserie and snack bar. Its New Asian Cuisine is predominantly Chinese fare but also takes inspiration from the French tradition. It is one of the few restaurants to combine two culinary concepts in a single space. Chef Nick Liu, the son of Hakka parents, grew up eating Chinese dishes. He now reinterprets those dishes using French techniques. The result is DaiLo’s creative menu featuring items like Sunchoke Dumplings, Hakka Brown Wontons, Escargot “Ceasar” Salad, and Truffle Hainanese Chicken.

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Restaurant 20 Victoria

Restaurant 20 Victoria
Try Corn & Chanterelle at Restaurant 20 Victoria. (Source: Restaurant 20 Victoria Instagram)

Restaurant 20 Victoria is a tiny but mighty establishment in downtown Toronto. Its intimate dining space features a limited number of tables that can only accommodate a few guests. However, it’s always packed, and diners might have to be on the waitlist for making reservations. But why is Restaurant 20 Victoria so famous? The credit all goes to Chef Julie Hyde and her team. They prepare mouthwatering seafood using local ingredients and original recipes. Every dish tastes fantastic and flavorful, from smoked beets with oyster cream to butter-poached halibut. You should try its infamous 7-course dinner, perfect for groups of up to 4 members.

Richmond Station

Richmond Station
Enjoy delicious Tomato custard tartlet at Richmond Station. (Source: Richmond Station Facebook)

Are you ready to dine in one of the busiest restaurants in Downtown Toronto? Richmond Station is located on Richmond St., a vibrant street featuring multiple restaurant options. Although there is a cutthroat competition, Richmond Station has been able to be among the top dining spaces since its establishment in 2012. Its dedicated cooks and committed waitstaff are devoted to making your dining experience memorable. Moreover, this establishment is open for lunch and dinner and caters to private events. The kitchen releases Chef’s Menu every two weeks, including fantastic dishes made from seasonal ingredients.

Som Tum Jinda

Som Tum Jinda
Try Gaeng Nor Mai at Som Tum Jinda. (Source: Som Tum Jinda Facebook)

Som Tum Jinda’s name alone might have hinted at its Thai fare. And it doesn’t disappoint with its signature Som Tum dishes. They come with and without papaya and are made of dried shrimp or salted crab. Chef-owner Jinda makes her Som Tum, Isan-style, with fermented fish paste for that impressive tang. The must-try dish is Tum Puu Nam Pla, an Isan som tum made of papaya, salted crab, chili, garlic, tomato, and green bean. Other famous dishes are Larb Ped, Tum Khaophod Salmon, and Jaew Hon. Finish your meal with Coconut ice cream or Thai green tea ice cream.

Kiin

Kiin
Purplish-blue-hued vegan Chor Muang dumplings taste like no other. (Source: Kiin Facebook)

We have another Thai restaurant on our list of the best restaurants in Toronto. Kiin is a Michelin-starred establishment featuring an elegant space and mouthwatering Thai dishes. Kiin means to eat in Thai, and this restaurant ensures you enjoy eating there. Chef Nuit Regular and her team create impressive Royal Thai Cuisine using the highest-quality seasonal ingredients from Thailand and Canada. You can expect classic Thai dishes from Isan-style sausage and larb to the famed Khao Soi. You can also order a 7-course or 12-course tasting.

Petros82

Petros82
Enjoy a hefty brunch at Petros82. (Source: Petros82 Facebook)

Next, Petros82 is a fine Greek restaurant in Toronto’s Entertainment District. Peter and Paul’s Hospitality Group launched this establishment to introduce Greek hospitality in the Canadian city. It brings delectable flavors of the Aegean Sea and the custom of Philoxenia to your table. This restaurant features a luxurious setting perfect for a date night. From seafood appetizers to pasta and pizza, there is something for everyone here. Moreover, Petros82 is always ready to host private events, from birthdays to dinner meetings, cocktail parties, and receptions. Its venues can accommodate smaller groups and gala events of 400 guests.

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The Butcher Chef

The Butcher Chef
The Butcher Chef serves the best Tuna and A5 tartare. (Source: The Butcher Chef Facebook)

Are you looking for a steak house in Toronto? Then, The Butcher Chef is your destination. This butchery-inspired restaurant sets the ultimate standard for a fine-dining steakhouse with its finest cuts of beef. Owner Michael Dabic and head chef Derek Von Raesfeld have partnered to create Toronto’s top steakhouse. The restaurant’s high-end decor is equally impressive, with crystal chandeliers and comfortable banquettes. Moreover, diners can choose from a la carte and tasting menus. They must also dress appropriately.

Don Alfonso 1890

Don Alfonso 1890
Every dish tastes like heaven at Don Alfonso 1890. (Source: Don Alfonso 1890 Facebook)

Next, Don Alfonso 1980 is among the top Italian restaurants in Toronto. It received a Michelin star in the inaugural Michelin Guide – Toronto 2022. Since its opening, this restaurant has won many awards and honors, including 50 Top Italy’s Best Italian Restaurant in the World, outside of Italy and Meal of the Year, La Liste Best Italian Restaurant in Canada, Open Table’s Top 100 Most Beloved Restaurants in Canada for 2022, and DiRoNA’s Distinguished Restaurants of North America. Moreover, Michelin star chefs Alfonso and Ernesto Iaccarino are behind Don Alfonso 1820’s incredible menu. Expect good food, a nice ambiance, and hospitable staff.

Le Baratin

Le Baratin
Try refreshing cocktails at Le Baratin. (Source: Le Baratin Facebook)

We are nearing the end of our list of the best restaurants in Toronto, and it’s time for Le Baratin. This French restaurant is all about classic French food and hospitality. Its classy setting is perfect for a romantic dinner with your other half. Chef Jean-Régis and his team create tasty dishes that complement the restaurant’s ambiance. Furthermore, Le Baratin has a special Valentine’s Day menu featuring Foie Gras Maison, Magret De Canard, Gravlax, and Ballotine De Poulet. Most-try dishes are steak frites, lamb shank, tarte tatin, and duck breast. Diners can wash down their palate with cocktails or wines.

Chiado Restaurant

Chiado Restaurant
Enjoy the best seafood in town at Chiado Restaurant. (Source: Chiado Restaurant Facebook)

You don’t have to go to Portugal to try its delicacies. You can enjoy them in Toronto at Chiado Restaurant. Albino Silva, one of North America’s leading chefs and restaurateurs, launched this establishment to introduce Progressive Portuguese Cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and creative presentations. Chiado is the best Portuguese seafood restaurant in town, with famous dishes like grilled squid, octopus, and pan-seared skatefish. The establishment also caters to private functions and corporate events.

STK Steakhouse

STK Steakhouse
Savor mouthwatering dishes at STK Steakhouse. (Source: STK Steakhouse Facebook)

Have you ever wondered where celebrities go to eat in Toronto? While there are many places, only STK Steakhouse can take pride in being visited by numerous celebs. It has served many renowned personalities, from Adam Sandler to Dakota Fanning, Nick Cannon, and Uzo Aduba. Its sleek and modern vibe alludes to both locals and high-profile customers. Add in its high-quality steaks and innovative menu, and we have got our winner. If you want to enjoy a sophisticated meal in a stylish, chic, trendy setting, STK Steakhouse is your destination.

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Toronto has hundreds of restaurants serving mouthwatering dishes in diverse atmospheres. Whether you want a quick fix or upscale dining, this city caters to visitors’ preferences. Additionally, it has 16 Michelin-starred restaurants, including Canoe, George, Som Tum Jinda, Alo, and Kiin. Expect spectacular decor, innovative menus, and excellent customer service. You can also explore this city’s street food scene. Snack on hot dogs, brisket-stuffed patties, cheeseburgers, fried chicken, Italian beef sandwiches, waffles, and mango ice cream. Try them at Kensington Market, Market 707, and World Food Market.

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