29 Best French Cuisine Spots in Ontario: A Culinary Journey
Ontario's vibrant culinary scene offers a delightful array of French cuisine, ranging from sophisticated fine dining establishments to cozy, authentic bistros. Whether you're seeking classic Parisian ambiance, innovative modern French dishes, or the comforting taste of traditional French fare, this guide will introduce you to some of the most notable places where you can experience the exquisite flavors of France right here in Ontario. Prepare for a gastronomic adventure that promises delicious dishes, impeccable service, and memorable dining experiences across the province.
Table of Contents
- The French (Hamilton)
- The French (Cambridge)
- Lucie
- La Plume
- Batifole
- La Palette
- Le Baratin
- Alo
- Le Sélect Bistro
- Dreyfus
- Auberge du Pommier
- Le Paradis
- Le Swan
- Côte de Bœuf
- Le Montmartre
- Maison Selby
- Scaramouche Restaurant
- REIGN Restaurant + Bar + Bakery
- Sorrel
- LOUIX LOUIS
- Parquet
- Biff's Bistro
- Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie
- Frenchy Bar et Brasserie
- Lapinou
- Alobar Yorkville
1. The French (Hamilton)
A Hamilton gem serving incredible French fare with impeccable service.
Customers consistently praise The French in Hamilton for its "incredible food" and "fantastic dinner" and lunch experiences. Many highlight the "expertly prepared" dishes, "authentic flavors," and "beautiful presentation." The "warm interior decor" and "friendly service" also receive high marks, making it a favorite for those seeking quality French cuisine. Patrons rave about the rich French onion soup, succulent lamb, classic beef bourguignon, and perfectly cooked chicken. It's truly a top spot for French dining in Hamilton.
- Rating: 4.6 (1,798 google maps)
- Address: 37 King William St, Hamilton, ON L8R 1A1
- Phone: +1 905-528-3737
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Known for French onion soup, lamb, beef bourguignon, chicken, gourmet burgers, and delicious eggs Benedict for brunch.
Read more: 14 Best French Cuisine in Toronto for an Authentic Taste
2. The French (Cambridge)
Cambridge's charming French bistro with incredible flavors.
This Cambridge location of The French is celebrated for its "incredible" and "expertly prepared" dishes, often bursting with authentic French flavors. Guests frequently commend the "beautiful" interior and the generally "great experience," noting specific favorites like the rich Mushroom Tart and the delightful Ricotta Gnocchi. While some mention service can sometimes be slow, the delicious food and elegant atmosphere typically make up for it, transporting diners to a European setting.
- Rating: 4.4 (142 google maps)
- Address: 58 Grand Ave S, Cambridge, ON N1S 0B7
- Phone: +1 519-622-6351
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highlights include the Mushroom Tart, perfectly cooked Duck Breast, Ricotta Gnocchi, baseball cut steak, and brunch favorites like crab cake Benny and bananas Foster.
3. Lucie
An absolutely exceptional dining experience for authentic French cuisine in Toronto.
Dining at Lucie is described as an "absolutely exceptional experience" where the service is truly "impeccable" and the food is "pure art." Patrons repeatedly praise the delicate balance of tastes and stunning presentation, especially noting the scallop and the banana dessert. This Toronto establishment is hailed as one of the best French restaurants for classic, authentic French cuisine, with every dish featuring "rich, flavorful sauces just the way real French food should be."
- Rating: 4.8 (427 google maps)
- Address: 100 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5C 2W1
- Phone: +1 416-788-9054
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Features highlights like the scallop, smoked trout with passion fruit sauce, bison, calamari, and banana dessert.
Read more: Discover the 8 Best Italian Food Restaurants in Ontario
4. La Plume
Blending contemporary design with classic European elegance in Toronto's dining scene.
La Plume offers a delightful experience, with its "charming French decor and theme." Diners appreciate the "very nice" and accommodating service, which even allows for customized drinks. The main dishes are described as tasting "exactly how you expect them to," with the duck breast standing out for its seasoning and crisp skin. It's a "beautiful restaurant" with a "warm, cozy atmosphere," making it a great choice for French-inspired dining in Toronto.
- Rating: 4.2 (523 google maps)
- Address: 453 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1E7
- Phone: +1 647-258-5205
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Popular choices include Beef Tartare with pickled veggies, steak frites, octopus, and duck breast.
5. Batifole
An authentic French bistro where the chef makes you feel at home.
Batifole is highly praised for its "authentic French cuisine" and "cozy atmosphere." Customers frequently mention the chef's personal touch, as he often comes out to greet tables and explain dishes, creating a welcoming and hospitable environment. The food is consistently described as "incredible" and "outstanding," with particular highlights being the "best duck confit" many have ever had, flavorful truffle foie gras, and perfectly cooked scallops. It’s a true hidden gem for French food lovers in Toronto.
- Rating: 4.7 (604 google maps)
- Address: 744 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1Y3
- Phone: +1 416-462-9965
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Must-try dishes include Duck Confit, Cassolette D'Escargots, Pan-Seared Scallops, Cassoulet Royal, Hanger steak with Bordeaux sauce, and Soufflé.
Read more: 26 Must-Try Indian Food Spots Across Ontario: A Culinary Journey
6. La Palette
Transport yourself to France with genuine French cuisine and a cozy, artistic ambiance.
La Palette offers a truly "genuine and authentic" experience, with an atmosphere that makes you feel as if you've "walked into a new country, the country of France." Diners consistently highlight the exceptional quality of the food, with the horse steak being "so tender and juicy" and the Bouillabaisse equally delicious. The attentive service, knowledgeable staff, and overall cozy yet artistic decor contribute to an "amazing experience" that many believe should be on the Michelin Guide.
- Rating: 4.5 (1,350 google maps)
- Address: 492 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2B2
- Phone: +1 416-929-4900
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Standout dishes include the horse steak, Bouillabaisse, beef tartare, duck confit, various pâtés, and delightful crème brûlée and lemon tart desserts.
7. Le Baratin
A charming and affordable French culinary gem with a homey feel.
Le Baratin is celebrated as an authentic French restaurant offering excellent quality at very reasonable prices. Guests consistently praise the delicious food, from fresh and flavorful appetizers to perfectly cooked main courses. The "cozy and charming" atmosphere, along with "friendly and attentive staff," creates a delightful dining experience. Many customers describe it as the "best French food" they've had in Toronto, noting highlights like the duck confit and swordfish.
- Rating: 4.7 (1,275 google maps)
- Address: 1600 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6K 1T8
- Phone: +1 416-534-8800
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highly recommended dishes include the Duck Rillettes, Escargots in creamy garlic sauce, flavorful Swordfish, crispy Duck Leg, and delicious steak frites.
8. Alo
A culinary masterpiece where creativity and precision elevate French dining.
Alo offers an "incredible experience" for those seeking modern French cuisine. Diners consistently praise the "exceptional" food, highlighting the dynamic and impressive flavors in every dish. The service is described as "flawless," with thoughtful wine and non-alcoholic pairings that perfectly complement the tasting menu. Alo is considered a "culinary masterpiece" where "creativity, patience, and care shine through," making it one of the best fine dining experiences in Toronto and a top destination for French food enthusiasts.
- Rating: 4.6 (2,028 google maps)
- Address: 163 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5V 2L6
- Phone: +1 416-260-2222
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Offers a constantly changing tasting menu with exceptional dishes, often featuring seafood, and highly recommended mocktail and wine pairings.
9. Le Sélect Bistro
An authentic Parisian experience with classic French dishes in the heart of Toronto.
Le Sélect Bistro is revered as a "classic" French restaurant that provides an authentic Parisian ambiance right in Toronto. The vintage decor and French music perfectly set the tone for a delightful meal. Customers consistently praise the "excellent service" and "amazing food," with particular highlights including the salmon, beef tartare, and delicious duck confit. It’s a go-to spot for a quality French dining experience, perfect for celebrations or a taste of France.
- Rating: 4.4 (2,945 google maps)
- Address: 432 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1E3
- Phone: +1 416-626-6262
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Popular items include Beef Tartare, French onion soup, Duck Confit, and a variety of well-prepared meat and seafood dishes.
10. Dreyfus
A tiny, charming spot delivering grand French flavors and fantastic service.
Dreyfus is praised for its "incredible food and atmosphere," paired with "excellent service." Despite its "tiny" size, the restaurant delivers "grand" taste, with dishes that are "beautifully balanced — bold in flavour, creative yet restrained." The rotating menu keeps things fresh and exciting, and staff are commended for their thorough knowledge and passion. Diners especially love the perfectly cooked proteins and often call it one of the best French restaurants in Toronto.
- Rating: 4.6 (482 google maps)
- Address: 96 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1G6
- Phone: +1 416-323-1385
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Features a rotating menu but past highlights include Roasted chicken with chantrelles and black truffle, Beef Tongue, Duck Breast, and Pommes Dauphine.
11. Auberge du Pommier
An elegant French restaurant offering a consistently fantastic dining experience.
Auberge du Pommier is consistently rated as one of Toronto's best fine dining experiences, particularly for French cuisine. Guests are "greeted warmly" and treated to "excellent service" that is both "attentive and knowledgeable." The food is described as "divine," "inspired," and "delicious," with dishes "made to perfection." The elegant and romantic atmosphere, often enhanced by beautiful outdoor patios, makes it an ideal choice for special occasions and memorable meals.
- Rating: 4.5 (2,223 google maps)
- Address: 4150 Yonge St, North York, ON M2P 2C6
- Phone: +1 416-222-2220
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highlights include the Foie Gras appetizer, roasted duck, steak, and a variety of exquisite desserts.
12. Le Paradis
Toronto's hidden gem for authentic French bistro fare at a great value.
Le Paradis is praised as a "wonderful place" and a "hidden gem" offering authentic French cuisine at "very reasonable prices." Diners are consistently impressed by the "delicious food," generous portions, and extensive wine selection. The "cozy inside" atmosphere, coupled with "great service" from "super kind and friendly" waitresses, makes it a highly recommended spot. Signature dishes like the duck confit and beef bourguignonne receive high praise, cementing its reputation as a top French restaurant in Toronto.
- Rating: 4.5 (880 google maps)
- Address: 166 Bedford Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 2K9
- Phone: +1 416-921-6424
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Must-try dishes include Duck Confit with cherry, Beef Bourguignonne, Escargot, Icelandic cod, and house-made sorbet and lemon tart.
13. Le Swan
A unique French-diner fusion spot with delicious and comforting dishes.
Le Swan offers a distinctive blend of "half French and half diner" vibes, creating a "cozy diner environment" with excellent food. Patrons consistently rave about the "delicious" and "very thoughtful" elevated dishes. The steak frites is a standout, described as "extremely tender" with "perfect flavor." Other favorites include the fondue appetizer and the comforting hot chicken sandwich. The "friendly and knowledgeable staff" contribute to a "super lovely dinner spot" that is perfect for an intimate night out or a casual, delicious meal with a French twist.
- Rating: 4.6 (844 google maps)
- Address: 892 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G3
- Phone: +1 416-536-4440
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highlights include Steak Frites, Fondue, Hot Chicken Sandwich, Beef Bourguignon, and the classic Croque Madame, along with delightful milkshakes and chocolate terrine.
14. Côte de Bœuf
An intimate French butcher-shop style restaurant with Toronto's best beef tartare.
Côte de Bœuf is consistently lauded for having the "best beef tartare" in Toronto, with generous portions of fresh, flavorful raw beef. This "tiny and busy" spot offers a "cozy and intimate atmosphere," making it a perfect choice for a date night. Beyond the standout tartare, customers praise the fresh oysters, tasty mussels, and superb dry-aged steaks. The service is often highlighted as "amazing," "personable," and "attentive," ensuring a delightful French dining experience even with a potential wait.
- Rating: 4.4 (798 google maps)
- Address: 130 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z5
- Phone: +1 416-532-2333
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Specializes in Beef Tartare, various cuts of dry-aged steak (like the Côte de Bœuf), fresh oysters, and escargots.
15. Le Montmartre
A homely and traditional French restaurant offering excellent value.
Le Montmartre is described as a "homey feel French restaurant" that transports diners to "an old, classy building." It's praised for its "outstanding" food quality and "very reasonable" prices, offering fantastic value for authentic French cuisine. Customers particularly enjoy the delicious soups, velvety mussels, and perfectly prepared duck. The staff are consistently noted as "attentive and professional," making every visit a lovely and welcoming experience.
- Rating: 4.5 (466 google maps)
- Address: 911 Sheppard Ave W, North York, ON M3H 2T7
- Phone: +1 416-630-3804
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highlights include Duck Confit, Liver in wine, Grouper, flavorful soups (especially mushroom), and excellent rack of lamb.
16. Maison Selby
Elegant charm and French flair in a beautifully restored Toronto mansion.
Maison Selby is a "refined gem nestled in a beautifully restored heritage building," offering an "elegant yet inviting ambiance." Guests frequently praise the exceptional service, with staff described as "kind, attentive, and knowledgeable." The food is consistently called "delicious," "outstanding," and "perfect," showcasing a simple yet innovative menu. It's an ideal spot for a fancy meal, birthday celebrations, or any occasion requiring a touch of French elegance.
- Rating: 4.4 (1,523 google maps)
- Address: 592 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON M4X 1L4
- Phone: +1 647-943-1676
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Popular dishes include Beef Tartare, mushroom soup, steak frites, roast chicken, and apple clafoutis.
17. Scaramouche Restaurant
Fine dining with breathtaking Toronto skyline views and impeccable French-inspired dishes.
Scaramouche Restaurant is a "culinary institution in Toronto," offering an "unforgettable experience" with its "breathtaking views of Toronto’s skyline." From the moment guests arrive, the "warm, professional, and attentive" service sets a high standard. Every dish is "perfectly crafted, bursting with flavor, and beautifully presented," making it a top-tier French-inspired dining destination. Highlights include the tender gnocchi, exquisite French ham, and the "best bread pudding."
- Rating: 4.7 (1,571 google maps)
- Address: 1 Benvenuto Pl, Toronto, ON M4V 2L1
- Phone: +1 416-961-6240
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Known for Gnocchi, French ham, roasted duck, foie gras, lobster risotto, and their famous coconut cream pie.
18. REIGN Restaurant + Bar + Bakery
An elegant dining experience within the historic Fairmont Royal York.
REIGN, located in the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, offers an "elegant yet inviting ambiance" that perfectly sets the stage for a refined meal. Diners consistently praise the "delicious food" and the "out of this world" service. Highlights include perfectly cooked porterhouse steak, flavourful steak tartare, and excellent lobster linguini. The atmosphere, often accompanied by live piano music, creates a "classy dining lounge" experience that is both sophisticated and welcoming, making it a stellar choice for French-inspired dining in Toronto.
- Rating: 4.4 (529 google maps)
- Address: 100 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5J 1E3
- Phone: +1 416-368-2511
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Signature items include the Reign Caesar salad, Lobster Linguini, Porterhouse steak, Steak Tartare, and the popular Toffee Pudding.
19. Sorrel
A delightful French culinary experience with exceptional service and a cozy atmosphere.
Sorrel is hailed as a "perfect place for a delicious meal" and "one of the best in town" for French cuisine. Customers rave about the "amazing food," with standout dishes like the incredibly tasty Fried Calamari, the deeply flavorful Bouillabaisse, and the consistently praised Duck Confit. The "professional service," "cozy, elegant, and upscale" ambiance, and attentive staff make for an exceptional dining experience. It's highly recommended for its quality and inviting atmosphere.
- Rating: 4.5 (440 google maps)
- Address: 1158 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4W 2L9
- Phone: +1 416-926-1010
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Popular items include Beef Tartare, Fried Calamari, Bouillabaisse, Duck Confit, Hanger steak, and Crème brûlée.
20. LOUIX LOUIS
An opulent French-inspired restaurant with breathtaking views and exquisite dishes.
LOUIX LOUIS, perched on the 31st floor of the St. Regis Toronto, offers a truly "opulent and memorable" dining experience. The ambiance is grand, with soaring ceilings and "panoramic views," setting a luxurious stage. Guests consistently praise the "impeccable" service and "magnificent" food. Highlights include the "creamy and tasty" foie gras, delicious crab salad, and perfectly cooked steaks. The restaurant is celebrated for its ability to create a "luxurious and elegant atmosphere," making it perfect for special occasions.
- Rating: 4.2 (1,655 google maps)
- Address: 325 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5H 4G3
- Phone: +1 416-637-5550
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Known for their impressive Steak, Lobster Risotto, Beef Wellington, Crab Salad, Foie Gras, and the famously massive King's Cake.
21. Parquet
A sophisticated and cozy French bistro with wonderfully flavourful dishes.
Parquet offers a delightful French bistro experience with a "sophisticated yet inviting" ambiance. Guests consistently praise the "fabulous" and "incredibly flavourful" food, highlighting unique and well-balanced dishes. The service is often described as "outstanding," "attentive," and "welcoming," making for a comfortable and enjoyable meal. Standout items include their creative cocktails, the incredibly tender Sablefish, and the must-try Apple Tarte Tatin, solidifying its place as a top French restaurant in Toronto.
- Rating: 4.4 (177 google maps)
- Address: 97 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1G4
- Phone: +1 416-922-2345
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highly recommended dishes include the mushroom lentils, cod beignets, classic Steak Frites, Duck Confit, Sablefish, Cassoulet, and Apple Tarte Tatin.
22. Biff's Bistro
A genuine French bistro offering classic dishes executed to perfection.
Biff's Bistro is praised for serving some of the "best French food" many customers have ever had, with classics executed to perfection. The atmosphere is described as "lovely" and "genuine," creating a "breathe of fresh air" in downtown Toronto. The French onion soup is a consistent highlight, often called the "best I've tried ever." Service is noted as "amazing," "knowledgeable," and "attentive," contributing to a fantastic overall experience, whether for a pre-game dinner or a special occasion.
- Rating: 4.4 (1,209 google maps)
- Address: 2 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1G4
- Phone: +1 416-860-0086
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Must-try items include French Onion Soup, Beef Bourguignon, Steak Frites, Escargot, Foie Gras, and Crème Brûlée.
23. Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie
A French bistro in the Distillery District with captivating decor and delicious fare.
Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie offers a truly captivating experience, with "beautiful decor" that "transports you to Paris." Located in Toronto's historic Distillery District, this spacious restaurant boasts a warm and stylish atmosphere. Guests consistently praise the "amazing food," noting generous portions and well-executed dishes like the frog legs and Nagano pork chop. The service is described as "attentive," "pleasant," and "helpful," making it a perfect spot for brunch, dinner, or special occasions.
- Rating: 4.3 (4,931 google maps)
- Address: 35 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4
- Phone: +1 416-203-2632
- Google Maps: [Navigate with Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Cluny+Bistro+%26+Boulangerie+35+Tank+House+Lane%2C+Toronto%2C+ON+M5A 3C4)
- Menu: Popular items include French Onion Soup, Frog Legs, Nagano Pork Chop, Potato Pavé, Salmon Crepe, and various macarons and cocktails.
24. Frenchy Bar et Brasserie
A chic French brasserie offering a relaxing atmosphere and excellent service.
Frenchy Bar et Brasserie, nestled within the Hilton Hotel in Toronto, provides a chic and elegant European atmosphere. Diners consistently praise the "excellent" and "superb" service, with staff making guests feel "at home." While some note that the food can be a bit salty, standout dishes like the Truffle Baked Brie and fresh oysters receive high acclaim. The live jazz band and comfortable seating contribute to a "relaxing atmosphere," making it a great spot for a nice meal or a special occasion.
- Rating: 4.3 (211 google maps)
- Address: 145 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2L2
- Phone: +1 416-860-6800
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highlights include Truffle Baked Brie, fresh Oysters, Seared Scallops, Duck Confit, Tuna Tartare, and classic French desserts like Lemon Tart and Crème Brûlée.
25. Lapinou
A cozy and chic King Street spot for globally-inspired French cuisine.
Lapinou is described as an "absolute gem of a spot" with a "cozy and chic" ambiance that feels more relaxed than other King Street establishments. Diners frequently praise the "top-notch" service and "amazing" food, particularly highlighting the unique and flavorful dishes. Many commend the "mouthwatering" bread with strawberry jam and cheese, and the exceptionally tasty cod and beef dishes. It's a Michelin-recommended gem that offers a "romantic vibe" with live music, making it ideal for date nights or group gatherings seeking quality French food in Toronto.
- Rating: 4.1 (691 google maps)
- Address: 642 King St W Suite 102, Toronto, ON M5V 1M7
- Phone: +1 416-479-4414
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Popular items include Beef Tartare, Fried Shrimp, various Wagyu beef bites, Cod, Short Rib, and their signature Banana Mousse Butter Tart.
26. Alobar Yorkville
A modern, sexy, and sophisticated spot with world-class French-inspired cuisine.
Alobar Yorkville is celebrated for its "modern, sexy, and sophisticated" ambiance, offering a fine dining experience that still feels relaxed. Patrons consistently give "5 stars for food, service, and ambiance," highlighting the exceptional quality of every dish. The "world-class cuisine" showcases extraordinary techniques, with highlights including the tender Iberian pork chop, and the "best pasta" many have ever tasted. Despite its small size and limited seating, the "warm, welcoming, and attentive" service makes it a highly recommended destination for French-inspired dining in Toronto.
- Rating: 4.3 (643 google maps)
- Address: 162 Cumberland St, Toronto, ON M5R 3N5
- Phone: +1 416-961-1222
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Popular choices include Foie Gras, Beet Salad, Ricotta Mezzelune, Whole Grilled Lobster, Dover Sole, Iberian Pork Chop, and Canestri pasta.
Conclusion
Ontario offers an incredible diversity of French cuisine, from classic bistros evoking Parisian charm to modern establishments pushing culinary boundaries. Whether you are looking for a romantic date night, a celebratory dinner, or simply craving delicious French dishes like steak frites, duck confit, or a perfect crème brûlée, the options above will meet your needs well. Explore these top places to eat in Ontario, savoring the rich flavors and inviting atmospheres. Choose a place that suits your preferences and needs, and don't forget to share your experience with us in the comments section below this article!