Popular Toronto restaurants by neighbourhood

Downtown/Central

Old Town/Distillery/St. Lawrence Market

Two neighbourhoods make up Old Town Toronto, each brimming with culinary delights, cultural experiences and architectural wonders.

The Distillery District offers a striking mix of Victorian industrial architecture, contemporary art galleries and some of the best places to eat in Toronto. Select from over 20 handcrafted beers at the historical Mill Street Brewery and check out their enormous brewing vats showcased right in the centre of the bar.

If you’re looking for full flavour, order authentic Catalan tapas at Madrina Bar y Tapas or grab a seat on the sprawling patio at El Catrin Destileria and share birria tacos and octopus tostadas. Head to Archeo Restaurant for tasty Italian dishes in a heritage building featuring reclaimed wood and exposed brick.

Its neighbouring district, St. Lawrence Market, boasts a vibrant atmosphere with its bustling food market, where you can savour diverse cuisines and shop for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Carousel Bakery proudly features the “world famous peameal bacon sandwich”, a Toronto signature treat.

Entertainment District

Toronto's Entertainment District is a lively hub of activity, renowned for world-class theatres. The area features numerous restaurants, bars and nightclubs, making it the perfect spot for nightlife enthusiasts. It’s home to the iconic CN Tower, which offers views of the city and lake and an array of appetizing and interactive experiences you won’t find anywhere other than Canada’s largest city.

Toronto loves its high-end cuisine, with a twist. That’s just what you’ll find at Miss Likklemores, the first haute Caribbean-inspired dining house or Aloette Restaurant that takes a fine-dining approach to cheeseburgers and lemon meringue pie. It’s so good that it’s been recognized by the MICHELIN guide.

If you’re a sushi lover, try the world-famous Aburi Oshi Sushi at Minami Toronto. Then, follow it up at the famous Library Bar in the Fairmont Royal York for one of the best martinis in town. For a meal to remember in a luxe atmosphere, snag a booth at Byblos Downtown and enjoy authentic, family-style Eastern Mediterranean.

Financial District

Toronto's Financial District is the economic heartbeat of the city and home to some of the best restaurants in downtown Toronto. Visitors can indulge in a variety of culinary delights, from high-end dining to casual eateries, nestled among the district's towering structures.

Reserve a spot at Canoe, a staple among the Bay Street crowd. The chefs work closely with farmers to design original dishes that reflect Canadian flavours. The 54th-floor view is a feast in itself.

For more locally inspired fare, Richmond Station creates fresh Southern Ontario tasting menus supported by their own regenerative organic farm. They also craft a mean cocktail. For a great steak in the heart of the city, it has to be Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar. When it’s time for coffee, stop for a legendary cup at family-run Cafe Landwer.

Yorkville and The Annex

Yorkville is known for its elegant streets lined with luxurious boutiques and high-end dining experiences. Its neighbouring district, The Annex, boasts a rich cultural scene of galleries, museums and theatres, along with an array of eateries. This area is an ideal destination for art and culture enthusiasts, surrounded by leafy streets and beautiful parks, perfect if you want to unwind and indulge in a serene urban oasis.

Before you explore, fuel up with the Bang Bang Broccoli at innovative PLANTA Yorkville or savour a fresh slice of focaccia while you stroll Eataly, a massive Italian marketplace with three restaurants, nine take-away counters and a cooking school.

For a dollop of opulence, stop in for a martini and baked brie at Joni in the Park Hyatt’s massive dining room adorned with local art pieces. Gather for a great meal at UTSAV, a cozy spot serving authentic Indian fare in the heart of Yorkville. Or to experience what Forbes declared one of the best steakhouses in America, pull up a chair at STK Toronto.

Chinatown/Kensington Market

Toronto's Chinatown is a bustling district brimming with authentic Asian culture and cuisine. Its many Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese eateries represent some of the best restaurants in Toronto with their traditional and modern takes on Asian food. Next door, Kensington Market, one of the city's most colourful neighbourhoods, bustles with vintage shops, vegetable stalls and eclectic eateries.

Stop at Mother’s Dumplings, recognized by MICHELIN and voted the best dumplings in Toronto by many outlets. Another classic is Swatow Restaurant, where they’ve been slinging quick, hot, high-quality Chinese dishes for 40 years or Asian Legend, known for their traditional Northern-style dim sum and stir fry.

Try mouth-watering Japanese-Korean fusion and browse an enormous array of creative sushi options at To-Ne Sushi. Leave room for Honeymoon Dessert, the beloved dessert shop from Hong Kong serving unique dishes like the mango pillow and cashew peanut soup.

A few streets over, Sunnys is a fellow MICHELIN-starred restaurant inspired by casual and energetic dining experiences across China. Sample Baja-style tacos at Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos, authentic Chilean empanadas and humitas at Jumbo Empanadas, Italian-Jamaican fusion favourites at Rasta Pasta and homemade pastries at Wanda’s Pie in the Sky.

West End

Queen West, King West and Parkdale

There is so much to explore in Toronto’s West End. Queen West is known as one of the world's coolest neighbourhoods, full of boutiques, galleries and street art, while King West is renowned for its nightlife with some of the city's best bars, restaurants and clubs. Head further west into Parkdale and experience another hot spot for contemporary urban culture.

When happy hour strikes, grab some tasty sliders and reasonably-priced drinks on the patio at Pennies. Or try the Lychee Sangria and take in the dramatic atmosphere at Saku.

Watch the chefs in action at BARO, a multi-level restaurant that takes a modern twist on traditional Latin fare. Or get a short rib Wellington for the table at Lapinou Bistro.

Cocktails on Ossington are a must. Stop at Paris Paris, a beautiful, airy bistro converted from an auto garage. For a late-night snack, taste one of the city’s best Indian roti at Mother India and for brunch, treat yourself to the delectable brioche French toast at Chantecler.

Little Italy

Toronto's Little Italy beckons visitors with its charming streets adorned with colourful murals, lively cafes and some of the most popular Italian restaurants in Toronto. The scent of freshly baked pastries and espresso fills the air, and live music spills onto the sidewalks after sunset.

From savouring traditional Italian cuisine to exploring quaint shops and gelaterias, Little Italy is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

For a truly authentic Italian dining experience, enjoy burrata con prosciutto at Trattoria Taverniti, owned by mother and son and steeped in family tradition. But Little Italy isn’t only home to Italian fare. Reserve a table at Bar Isabel for creative, contemporary Spanish dishes and cocktails in an old-world atmosphere or discover upscale French cuisine with a Canadian twist at Pompette.

The best way to top off your Little Italy experience is with authentic gelato and sorbet and an excellent traditional Italian coffee at Dolce Gelato.

The Junction

The Junction brings together history, creativity and community spirit in one place. Its thriving arts scene includes galleries, studios and street art showcasing the creativity of local artists.

The area also offers diverse culinary options with intimate cafes, craft breweries and artisanal eateries that make for an eclectic dining experience reflecting the neighbourhood's vibrant energy.

Sample delicious Middle Eastern fare at Parallel and watch the freight trains roll by from the mezzanine. Grab a seat on the massive patio at Piri Piri Grill for fresh takes on Mediterranean classics and great cocktails. Check out Playa Cabana Cantina to satisfy your craving for tacos and tequila or discover amazing Italian sandwiches on house-made bread at Mattachioni.

For a plant-based option, Bellona Kitchen is Toronto’s vegan Italian restaurant. If you’re craving bold flavours, Isaan Der is an authentic Thai kitchen and bar serving distinct and fiery dishes inspired by the chef’s culinary travels across Thailand.

Dundas West/Little Portugal

Toronto's Little Portugal and Dundas West are dynamic neighbourhoods that blend the old-world charm of Portuguese culture with contemporary nightlife.

Indulge in authentic Portuguese and Brazilian cuisine and take in the lively atmosphere of eclectic shops, vibrant street art and bars that host live music and DJ sets. This area provides a flavourful mix of traditional culture and a taste of the city’s trendy social scene.

Reserve a table at Via Norte Restaurant and discover why it has been repeatedly recognized as one of the top Portuguese restaurants in Toronto. Or try the focaccia with maple truffle butter at Antler Kitchen & Bar, a popular spot that celebrates Canadian cuisine through foods that are local, seasonal and wild.

If you’re in the mood to indulge, experience Le Baratin, where classic French food is celebrated, sauces are made in-house and charcuterie is locally sourced. Or, if you’re in the mood for something truly unexpected, experience a modern take on Malaysian street food at Soos with teapot shots and shareable plates.

East End

The Danforth

The Danforth, also known as Greektown, offers visitors a slice of Mediterranean life in the big city, featuring independent shops, theatres and quaint cafes. The area warmly invites you to indulge in a feast of Greek cuisine, music and entertainment.

For a real taste of Greek cuisine, stop at Mezes, where dishes are made from cherished recipes and served family-style. For more spice, order a curry or jerk chicken dish your senses won’t soon forget at much-loved Simone's Caribbean Restaurant. Enjoy craft beer and southern comfort food at The Wren or visit their sister pub, The Wood Owl, for big, multicultural flavours paired with great wine.

Try authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Rendez-Vous Ethiopian Restaurant, an immersive experience and community staple or sip French 75s and browse the feature dishes at the romantic Taverne Tamblyn. Also, make sure to treat yourself to some handmade hot cross buns at Celena’s Bakery.

Gerrard India Bazaar (Little India)

Gerrard India Bazaar is a bustling neighbourhood that immerses visitors in the sights, sounds and flavours of South Asia. Its colourful storefronts, aromatic spice shops and authentic Indian restaurants offer a real taste of Indian culture right in the heart of Toronto.

If you’ve never experienced the sweet, savoury, crunchy experience of Indian chaat food, you have to check out Bombay Chowpatty. You’ll relish the thalis and curries at Motimahal Restaurant, a popular haunt serving authentic Indian dishes since 1976.

For great beer and a cool atmosphere, stop into Lake Inez (or better yet, reserve a spot at their next “mystery patio” exclusive tasting event). Taste notable flavours of Toronto at Lazy Daisy’s Cafe, maker of the #1 breakfast sandwich in the city (declared by multiple outlets) or the famous Glory Hole Doughnuts, an award-winning Toronto staple and a doughnut you’ll never forget.

Leslieville and The Beach

Leslieville and The Beach are charming neighbourhoods brimming with character, featuring delicious restaurants, boutique shops and scenic waterfront views. Leslieville's eclectic mix of vintage stores, eateries and cafes creates a uniquely inviting atmosphere, while The Beach boasts sandy shores, lush parks and a lively boardwalk. 

For a nautical theme, visit Eastside Social and enjoy delicious seafood dishes inspired by coastal cultures from around the world.

Line up early for Egyptian brunch at Maha’s Egyptian Brunch and try their award-winning lentil soup or dig into elevated comfort food by the fireplace at Maple Leaf Tavern.

For more uniquely Toronto experiences, try diner-inspired fine dining at Mira Mira or order the classic giant meatball at Gio Rana’s Really Really Good Restaurant. It’s possibly the only establishment in Toronto (or anywhere, for that matter) with a gigantic nose looming above its front doors.

With so much to choose from, foodies will love exploring and enjoying foods and flavours in every neighbourhood across the city.