Discover Toronto's 19 Top Restaurants: A Culinary Journey

Toronto is a vibrant metropolis, a melting pot of cultures reflected beautifully in its diverse culinary scene. Whether you're a local food enthusiast or visiting this incredible city, exploring its restaurants is an adventure in itself. From fine dining experiences with Michelin stars to cozy, authentic eateries, Toronto offers an impressive array of places to eat that promise memorable dishes and delightful atmospheres. In this article, we will introduce 19 remarkable restaurants in Toronto that you simply cannot miss, highlighting their unique charm and must-try offerings.

Table of Contents

• 1. Quetzal
• 2. Sushi Yugen
• 3. MIMI Chinese
• 4. PAI
• 5. Giulietta
• 6. Osteria Giulia
• 7. Alo
• 8. Scaramouche Restaurant
• 9. Alobar Yorkville
• 10. Bar Raval
• 11. Canoe
• 12. Bar Isabel
• 13. Don Alfonso 1890
• 14. Famiglia Baldassarre
• 15. Actinolite Restaurant
• 16. Prime Seafood Palace
• 17. General Public Restaurant
• 18. Kellys Landing
• 19. Baro

1. Quetzal

Experience high-end Mexican cuisine, where smoke and unique flavors ignite your senses.

Step into Quetzal and be greeted by the inviting aroma of wood and smoke, setting the stage for an incredible culinary journey. Patrons consistently praise this Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant in Toronto for its truly unique dining experience, often opting for the curated tasting menu which offers an excellent variety of dishes. Highlights include the phenomenal Al Pastor, Tlayuda, and Duck Breast, praised for their incredible taste and perfectly balanced flavors. The attentive and friendly service ensures a memorable occasion from start to finish, making it a top choice among restaurants in Toronto for special celebrations.

• Rating: 4.7 (1.32k google maps)
• Address: 419 College St
• Phone: +1 647-347-3663
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Curated tasting menu featuring Tlayuda, Duck Breast, Al Pastor, and various seafood and meat options.

Read more: 5 Must-Try Spanish Tapas Spots in Toronto: A Culinary Guide

2. Sushi Yugen

An extraordinary omakase experience that transports you directly to Japan.

For sushi connoisseurs, Sushi Yugen offers a truly extraordinary omakase experience, frequently lauded as one of the best in Toronto. Guests consistently rave about the serene ambiance and authentic decor that whisk them away to Japan. Each of the 10 masterful nigiri bites showcases precision and artistry, with pristine seafood and perfectly seasoned, airy shari (rice). The engaged chefs and informative staff explain each dish, making for a memorable culinary journey that is well worth the price for its high-quality fish and exceptional presentation.

• Rating: 4.7 (367 google maps)
• Address: 150 York St
• Phone: +1 416-363-1888
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: 10-piece omakase menu featuring chilled scallop, tuna, cuttlefish, and unique appetizers like white fish truffle.

Read more: 22 Best Pasta Restaurants in Toronto You Can't Miss

3. MIMI Chinese

Elevating Chinese cuisine with bold flavors and immaculate service.

MIMI Chinese is renowned for its elevated Chinese restaurant experience, praised for both its delicious food and exceptional ambiance. Diners consistently highlight the char siu and the sea bass as absolute must-tries, with the scallion fried rice often called the best. The attentive servers are praised for explaining the menu and offering helpful recommendations, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. It’s a fantastic choice among Toronto restaurants for a date night or special occasion, offering a fresh take on traditional Chinese dishes that are packed with flavor.

• Rating: 4.4 (733 google maps)
• Address: 265 Davenport Rd
• Phone: +1 416-505-0799
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Char Siu, Sea Bass, Scallion Fried Rice, Shrimp Toast, and the impressive Four Foot Belt Noodle.

Read more: 14 Best French Cuisine in Toronto for an Authentic Taste

4. PAI

Your go-to for authentic Northern Thai flavors in a vibrant setting.

PAI Northern Thai Kitchen stands out as one of the best Thai restaurants in Toronto, drawing crowds with its authentic, bold, and fresh flavors. Guests rave about the perfectly balanced spices and fragrant herbs in every dish, especially the signature Khao Soi, a rich aromatic coconut curry noodle. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, described as modern with a cozy, bohemian flair that enhances the dining experience. Expect a wait, but many agree that the delicious food and friendly, prompt staff make it absolutely worth it.

• Rating: 4.6 (13.581k google maps)
• Address: 18 Duncan St
• Phone: +1 416-901-4724
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Khao Soi, Papaya Salad, Chicken Pad Thai, Green Curry, Seafood Mix, Fritters, and Mango Sticky Rice.

5. Giulietta

A truly exceptional Italian dining experience with dishes bursting with flavor.

Giulietta is celebrated as one of Toronto’s finest Italian restaurants, consistently delivering an exceptional dining experience. Diners are captivated by the beautifully presented, vibrant, and delicious dishes, with the gnocchi and lobster risotto frequently highlighted as absolute standouts. The service is consistently top-notch—attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly—making guests feel completely taken care of. It's the perfect spot for a date night, where every dish, from the fried artichokes to the impressive steak, bursts with authentic flavor.

• Rating: 4.6 (1.533k google maps)
• Address: 972 College St
• Phone: +1 416-964-0606
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Fried artichoke, seafood stew, crudo, pizza, gnocchi, lobster risotto, beef tartare, canoli, and tiramisu.

6. Osteria Giulia

Elegant Northern Italian cuisine, where fresh seafood and homemade pasta shine.

Osteria Giulia offers a polished and elegant take on Northern Italian cuisine, widely regarded as one of Toronto's best Italian restaurants. The menu, focusing on fresh seafood and house-made pastas, features standout dishes like the black cod and beautifully prepared crudo. Guests praise the delicious and thoughtfully prepared dishes, highlighting the exceptional quality of food deserving of its Michelin star. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, complemented by friendly and attentive staff who ensure a truly memorable dining experience.

• Rating: 4.4 (736 google maps)
• Address: 134 Avenue Rd
• Phone: +1 416-964-8686
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Tuna, caviar burrata, veal carpaccio, black cod, hand-cut tajarin pasta, focaccia di recco, rack of lamb, steak, and mushroom dishes.

7. Alo

A culinary masterpiece of Modern French tasting menus and impeccable service.

Alo is an absolute masterpiece in Toronto's culinary world, offering an exceptional Modern French fine dining experience that truly lives up to its Michelin star reputation. Guests are consistently blown away by the creative, dynamic flavors and the meticulous care put into every dish on their blind tasting menu. The service is described as flawless and top-notch, with staff being attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely making guests feel special. From unique appetizers to exquisite mocktail pairings, Alo provides an unforgettable culinary adventure, making it a pinnacle among Toronto's best restaurants.

• Rating: 4.6 (2.028k google maps)
• Address: 163 Spadina Ave.
• Phone: +1 416-260-2222
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Blind tasting menu (changes seasonally) featuring exquisite appetizers, main courses like lobster and omelettes, and delightful desserts. Wine and non-alcoholic pairings are available.

8. Scaramouche Restaurant

Dine with breathtaking Toronto skyline views and exquisite Modern French cuisine.

Scaramouche Restaurant is a culinary institution in Toronto, celebrated for its stunning views of the city skyline and consistently excellent Modern French cuisine. Diners praise the beautifully composed plates, bursting with flavor, and the elegant yet comfortable atmosphere. The service is consistently polished, professional, and genuinely warm, striking a perfect balance between attentiveness and discretion. From the soft gnocchi and delicious French ham to the perfectly cooked grilled lobster and exquisite desserts, Scaramouche ensures a delightful and unforgettable fine dining experience, ideal for special occasions.

• Rating: 4.7 (1.571k google maps)
• Address: 1 Benvenuto Pl
• Phone: +1 416-961-6240
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Highlights include Gnocchi, French ham, Mushroom soup, Lobster risotto, Roasted duck, Foie gras, and a variety of superb desserts like bread pudding and coconut cream pie.

9. Alobar Yorkville

Chic, sophisticated, and world-class cuisine with extraordinary cocktails.

Alobar Yorkville delivers a fantastic dining experience, often described as modern, sexy, and sophisticated with a relaxed, edgy vibe. This award-winning restaurant boasts a Michelin-star chef, ensuring world-class cuisine that showcases extraordinary talent. Guests consistently praise the exceptional service—warm, welcoming, and attentive—and the awesome beverage program. From impressive starters like foie gras to incredibly tender steaks and unique canestri pasta, Alobar offers approachable yet technically brilliant food, making it a standout among Toronto's best restaurants for those seeking a chic fine dining experience.

• Rating: 4.3 (643 google maps)
• Address: 162 Cumberland St
• Phone: +1 416-961-1222
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Foie Gras, Beet Salad, Ricotta Mezzelune pasta, Whole Grilled Lobster, Dover Sole, Iberian Pork Chop, Canestri pasta, and various creative cocktails.

10. Bar Raval

A lively Spanish tapas bar with an impressive, unique interior.

Bar Raval is a true gem in Toronto, offering a stand-up tapas bar experience reminiscent of those found in Barcelona, complete with an intricate, unique interior design that captivates visitors. Beyond its stunning looks, the bar serves up creative and varied drinks alongside delicious food options. Diners particularly enjoy the perfectly textured shrimp a la planxa, the flavorful fried eggplant with honey, and the delectable apple olive oil cake. Despite being a bit on the pricier end, many find the high-quality food, exceptional cocktails, and overall vibrant atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination for special occasions or a fun night out.

• Rating: 4.5 (3.03k google maps)
• Address: 505 College St
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Smoked Mackerel, Hokkaido scallop, Fried eggplant with honey, Wild mushroom with burrata, Shrimp a la planxa, Kitchen bread, and a selection of creative cocktails.

11. Canoe

Experience exceptional Canadian cuisine with stunning panoramic city views.

Canoe offers an unforgettable fine dining experience high above Toronto, providing stunning city views from its 54th-floor location. This establishment is consistently praised for its impeccable service, where staff go above and beyond to make guests feel special, even helping with photos at sunset. The Canadian cuisine is exceptional, with every dish on the tasting menu being unique, thoughtfully crafted, and bursting with flavor. Highlights include fresh oysters, delicious tartare, and tender lamb racks. It's the perfect place for special occasions or a refined night out, offering top-tier dining with a phenomenal view.

• Rating: 4.4 (3.433k google maps)
• Address: 66 Wellington St W 54th floor
• Phone: +1 416-364-0054
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Chef's tasting menu, Wild Mushroom Soup, Ahi Tuna, Cornish Hen, fresh oysters, tartare, and lamb racks.

12. Bar Isabel

Authentic Spanish tapas and a lively, charming atmosphere for a perfect night out.

Bar Isabel offers an exceptional Spanish tapas experience, frequently hailed as one of the best restaurants in Toronto for authentic Spanish cuisine. Guests love the cozy, intimate vibe, enhanced by the fun and charming interior decor. The food is consistently praised as amazing, with dishes like the Pan con Tomate with Boquerones and Jamón Ibérico, crispy Jamón Croqueta, and the tender whole octopus standing out as favorites. The knowledgeable servers provide excellent suggestions, making the dining experience even more enjoyable and ensuring every penny is well spent on the fantastic food and vibrant atmosphere.

• Rating: 4.5 (2.66k google maps)
• Address: 797 College St
• Phone: +1 416-532-2222
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Pan con Tomate (add Boquerones, Jamón Ibérico), Jamón Croqueta, Razor Clam Special, Half Octopus, Shishito Pepper, Patatas Bravas, Pork Secreto w/Chorizo Spice, and Basque cake.

13. Don Alfonso 1890

A luxurious Michelin-starred Italian experience with breathtaking city views.

Don Alfonso 1890 offers a truly luxurious and unforgettable fine dining experience in Toronto, consistently exceeding expectations. Guests are captivated by the stunning city views from its high-floor location and the elegant decor. The multi-course tasting menu, a contemporary interpretation of traditional Italian cuisine, is a consistent highlight, with dishes like the bread and truffle butter often cited as memorable. The service is impeccable, with staff demonstrating exceptional professionalism and making every occasion feel special, often surprising guests with complimentary desserts and cards for birthdays.

• Rating: 4.5 (1.416k google maps)
• Address: 1 Harbour Square 38th Floor
• Phone: +1 416-214-5888
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Multi-course tasting menu, signature bread with truffle butter, and a range of contemporary Italian dishes.

14. Famiglia Baldassarre

Serving Toronto's freshest, highest-quality handmade pasta, just like in Italy.

Famiglia Baldassarre is widely acclaimed for serving the best and freshest handmade pasta in Toronto, reminiscent of authentic Italian culinary craftsmanship. Despite often requiring a wait due to limited hours and seating, patrons agree it's absolutely worth it. The pasta is praised for being perfectly al dente and full of love, especially the Tagliatelle Ragu and Ravioli in Bianco. Beyond the dine-in experience, visitors can also purchase fresh pasta, ragu sauce, and guanciale to enjoy at home. It's a must-visit for anyone craving truly high-quality Italian food.

• Rating: 4.7 (922 google maps)
• Address: 122 Geary Ave
• Phone: +1 647-293-5395
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Tagliatelle Ragu, Ravioli in Bianco, Ravioli with Saffron, Spag & Meatballs, local cold asparagus, and Tiramisu.

15. Actinolite Restaurant

A love story to Canadian food, celebrating local produce and changing seasons.

Actinolite Restaurant is a hidden gem in Toronto, offering an exceptional dining experience that showcases a true love for local produce and seasonal ingredients. Guests are consistently impressed by the meticulously thought-out tasting menu, where every dish is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The outdoor garden seating creates a wonderfully cozy atmosphere, akin to dining in a friend's backyard. The staff are incredibly passionate and knowledgeable, eager to share details about each element and its sourcing. It's a truly amazing Canadian restaurant for a special occasion, celebrating the best of local ingredients.

• Rating: 4.6 (531 google maps)
• Address: 971 Ossington Ave
• Phone: +1 416-962-8943
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Seasonal tasting menu, Roast Duck, Mussels, Chanterelle Mushrooms, East Coast Lobster, and Chicken. Also offers a Neighbourhood menu.

16. Prime Seafood Palace

A visually stunning palace offering unpretentious, spectacular seafood and steak.

Prime Seafood Palace, from culinary maestro Matty Matheson, is celebrated as one of the best restaurants in Toronto. Guests rave about the stunning design and inviting ambiance that blends contemporary style with classic comfort. The service is consistently exceptional, with staff praised for being fabulous and attentive. While renowned for its seafood and steak, every dish is prepared with skill and packed with flavor. Must-try items include the Sicilian crudo, steak tartare, bone-in sirloin, and the incredible palace potatoes and chocolate cake. It's an experience that makes you feel enveloped in a warm, gluttonous delight.

• Rating: 4.4 (587 google maps)
• Address: 944 Queen St W
• Phone: +1 416-551-8038
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Sicilian Crudo, Steak Tartare, Bone-in Sirloin, Lobster Pasta, Palace Potatoes, Chocolate Cake, and Parsnip Ice Cream.

17. General Public Restaurant

A new, hip Toronto restaurant delighting with unique flavors and excellent cocktails.

General Public Restaurant has quickly emerged as a talked-about spot in Toronto, offering an elevated take on British cuisine in a space with unique, vintage-inspired decor. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and bustling, creating a fun vibe for diners. Guests particularly enjoy the thoughtfully crafted cocktail selection and highlights like the bluefin carpaccio and the incredibly special burger (available during happy hour). The staff is consistently kind, attentive, and efficient, ensuring a seamless dining experience where every dish is made with fresh, local ingredients and packed with flavor.

• Rating: 4.5 (185 google maps)
• Address: 201 Geary Ave
• Phone: +1 416-571-1788
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Mushroom Schnitzel, Sausage, Bluefin Carpaccio, Lamb Tartare, Cod Rosti, Burger (happy hour only), Skate Wing, Chips, and various unique cocktails.

18. Kellys Landing

A lively downtown spot offering generous portions and a laid-back patio vibe.

Kellys Landing is a popular and lively restaurant right in the heart of downtown Toronto, known for its casual pub atmosphere and inviting patio. It’s a fantastic choice for a meal before a game or a relaxed night out, offering a diverse menu with generous portions. Diners enjoy the exceptional calamari appetizer, the delicious beef rigatoni, and the highly recommended pistachio gnocchi. The service is often praised for being friendly, attentive, and efficient, making sure guests feel well taken care of even during busy times.

• Rating: 4.4 (6.349k google maps)
• Address: 123 Front St W
• Phone: +1 647-776-1133
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Calamari, Nachos, Chicken Wings, Fish Tacos, Pistachio Gnocchi, Beef Rigatoni, Steak Frites, Beet and Goat Cheese Salad, and Moroccan Curry Chicken.

19. Baro

A Latin-inspired King West hotspot with vibrant drinks and delicious shareable plates.

Baro is a dynamic Latin-inspired restaurant in downtown Toronto, offering a modern, upscale vibe that's perfect for a night out. The gorgeous rooftop patio and the vibrant Fiesta Hour add to the fantastic atmosphere. Guests are consistently impressed by the delicious and beautifully plated food, with many recommending the Big Ass Board, Big Mac empanadas, and the unique duck fried rice. The staff are exceptionally friendly, attentive, and super helpful, making sure every detail enhances the dining experience. For those looking for delicious dishes and a lively ambiance, Baro is a must-visit among Toronto restaurants.

• Rating: 4.3 (3.528k google maps)
• Address: 485 King St W
• Phone: +1 416-363-8388
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Big Ass Board, Big Mac Empanadas, Beef Tacos, Duck Fried Rice, Asparagus Caesar, Tuna Ceviche, Lamb Skewers, Truffle Frita, and Churros.

Conclusion

Toronto's culinary landscape is undeniably rich and varied, offering an array of fantastic restaurants to explore. From the Michelin-starred sophistication of Quetzal and Alo to the comforting authentic pasta at Famiglia Baldassarre, and the lively tapas scene at Bar Raval, there's truly something for every palate and occasion. Whether you're seeking a romantic fine dining experience, a vibrant spot for a night out with friends, or a cozy eatery for delicious comfort food, these top restaurants in Toronto will meet your needs exceptionally well. Choose a place that suits your preferences, and don't forget to share your experience with us in the comments section below this article!