Following two years of restaurant closures amid the pandemic, Toronto’s culinary scene finally feels like its back in full swing. And now diners can finally sink their teeth into some incredible new dining options that opened up just in time for summer. From a cozy snack bar to a must-try seafood hotspot from a popular Canadian chef, these are the must-try restaurants of the summer right in Toronto.
Here are new Toronto restaurants that you need to try ASAP.
Casa Madera
Address: 550 Wellington Street West
Located in 1 Hotel, Casa Madera resembles a beachside restaurant in Tulum. Diners can look forward to a menu celebrating the culinary traditions of Mexico and the Mediterranean while DJs play alongside talented performance artists.
J’s Steak Frites
Address: 1198 Queen Street West
This Parisian-style steakhouse is located in the heart of vibrant Queen West and serves diners dishes brimming with top-quality ingredients, cheery music, and great friendly service.
Mademoiselle Toronto
Address: 563 King Street West
From the team behind MARBL, Mademoiselle offers a sophisticated, fine-dining experience, with inspiration from Southern France and the Mediterranean coast in the heart of King West.
Soluna
Address: 312 Queen Street West
If you’ve been dreaming of a coastal getaway look no further than Soluna. Located on Queen West – where Cube Nightclub used to be – guests can enjoy spritzy cocktails on the rooftop terrace to the lively downstairs where they can dance the night away.
Prime Seafood Palace
Address: 944 Queen Street West
The latest venture by famed food personality Matty Matheson just opened its doors in Toronto’s west end. Diners can look forward to Atlantic seafood and beef sourced from Ontario farms, including Matheson’s own local farm. Prime Seafood Palace, has been years in the making, so you know it’s going to be good.
Valerie
Address: 111 Princes’ Blvd.
Fresh and creative sushi, cocktails, and panoramic city and skyline views will all make you feel on top of the world at this new addition on the rooftop at Toronto’s Hotel X.
Wilma Snack Bar
Address: 214 Ossington Avenue
Wilma is a cozy and inviting space on Ossington serving elevated snacks like fried artichoke, duck liver crostini, and cured meats that pair effortlessly with the extensive wine and cocktails list.
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When it comes to cuisine, Toronto is one of the best cities to live in. There is no shortage of different types of food; basically everything under the ethnic rainbow. Better yet, if you’re looking for a dining experience that’s unique and unforgettable, then these spots have you covered there as well. Among the plethora of eats, there are also some pretty interesting restaurant concepts out there. Forget just sitting down for a meal, because that’s so last year.
Take a look at 15 of the most unique restaurant experiences in Toronto right now, and satisfy your curiosity AND taste buds all in one go.
Poop Cafe
Instagram/@gazels_frostedheaven
This one might be a bit controversial, but believe it or not, it’s insanely popular. Eating out of the toilet isn’t just for the dog anymore, because now you can eat out of a toilet bowl when you visit Poop Cafe on Bloor Street. This dessert shop serves up treats like ice cream, lattes, and much more out of, yup you guessed it, toilet-shaped cups and bowls.
Storm Crow Manor
Instagram/@ambernaujok
Voted as Toronto’s Greatest Geek Bar by Toronto Star, Storm Crow Manor is filled with theme rooms, secret doors, bubbling cocktails, randomly-generated burgers, and tentacles. What’s even cooler is that you can do shots called “Brian Fluid” and order Star Wars-inspired bowls!
Hana Sushi
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If you’ve ever wanted to dine at a restaurant where a monorail will serve you and you can order on an iPad, then head over to Hana Sushi. The sushi here is super fresh and if you’re not in the mood to converse with a server, then this place is definitely for you.
SPiN
Instagram/@paigewhyton
Looking for a cool place to play ping pong with friends? Head to King West’s SPiN and play a few rounds while indulging in tasty eats and drinks. This spot is definitely a far cry from the regular ol’ restaurants and bars on the trendy strip.
O.Noir
Instagram/@ubatuab
Judging by the name O.Noir, you can probably guess what this resto is all about: eating in total darkness. Relying on your senses alone is going to give you a totally different experience and our spidey senses are tingling. But don’t worry, O.Noir let’s you pick your meals before entering and there are some surprise options for the more adventurous folk.
Figures
Instagram/@figurestoronto
Figures is easily one of the coolest themed restaurant in Toronto. What looks like a simple comic book store from the front, actually has a secret entrance to the dining area within. If your favourite superheroes were in need of a speakeasy, this would be it as Figures pays full-blown homage to all the comic book classics, right down to the names of the drinks.
Tilt Arcade Bar
Instagram/@tilttoronto
Tilt Arcade Bar is like a blast from the past with every old-school arcade game imaginable. While it isn’t a formal sit down restaurant, the menu has everything from poutine to corndogs. It’s the perfect fuel as you take a break from one of the 14 different pinball machines, skee ball, and Nintendo 64.
Sultan’s Tent and Cafe Moroc
Instagram/@honolulucookie25
Get ready for a ride on a magic carpet! The Sultan’s Tent and Cafe Moroc will transport you to, literally, a whole new world. Complete with divans, cushions, fabric tents, and candles, you might actually forget that you’re still in Toronto. Not to mention, there are belly dancers meandering about while you enjoy the Moroccan-French cuisine.
The Shameful Tiki Room
Instagram/@themodernbartender
The Shameful Tiki Room has become one of the most coveted Parkdale destinations, perhaps because it always feels like summer there. Dishes come in items like Tiki heads, while your drink might be served in a volcano bowl. When dining here, plan to stay for a while because you’ll be on Island time because there’s no need to rush when you’re in paradise.
360 Restaurant
Instagram/@christian.iacovelli
Okay, while 360 Restaurant in the CN Tower might not be anything new, the novelty never wears off. There’s something about dining way up in the sky in a rotating room that promises a unique dining experience. You’ve definitely never witnessed spectacular views of the city like this during dinner before.
Copacabana Brazilian Steakhouse
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Copacabana is a haven for carnivores, as you’ll be surrounded by juicy spires of meat. Rather than ordering one dish, servers will come around with massive sticks of meat and carve off pieces of whatever you’re craving. Can’t choose between steak and chicken? Have them both! Literally: there isn’t a limit on how many times you can carve, eat, and repeat.
The Lockhart
Instagram/@marywojcicki
Sorry no muggles are allowed at The Lockhart – only wizards. This Harry Potter-themed bar and restaurant will alight the magic in anyone with all of its drinks, or rather potions and concoctions. Not to mention the accompanying Harry Potter decor might start to fool you into thinking you’re a student at Hogwarts.
Mysteriously Yours
This dining experience doesn’t come without a good old fashioned murder mystery. The interactive dinner experience at Mysteriously Yours sees diners trying to figure “whodunnit”, but not without freshly prepared food and drinks of course. Top it off with a prize for whoever guesses the murderer first, and you have one entertaining meal.
Robo Sushi
Instagram/@ijgamalinda
This North York gem may seem slightly out of the way, but believe us, it’s totally worth the drive. As the name suggests the futuristic restaurant is run by primarily by robots. Some friendly robot greeters will take you to your seat, and three tiered robot servers will bring out your food. Once you take the food from the trays, your robo-server will ask you for a high five and then be on its merry way.
Mustafa Turkish Pizza
Instagram/@karonliu
Mustafa can be found not too far from Yorkdale Shopping Centre and it’s definitely a resto to check out if you’re in the area. Specializing in Turkish cuisine and pizza, eat your delicious food and flatbread in a dining room that looks like one of Turkey’s scenic caves. The decor even features fake vines, wooden tables, and benches made from whole tree trunks to complete the vibe.
Featured Image: Instagram/@thesultanstent
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From January 25th to February 7th Winterlicious is back, which means it’s time to explore some of the best restaurants in the city without breaking the bank!
From Yorkville to West Queen West to the Financial District, there are tons of amazing options, and we’ve rounded up the best places to check out during Winterlicious.
Reservations are now open, so make sure to book yours while there are still spots available (they’ll fill up fast!).
Bar Buca
Instagram/ @barbuca
This Italian-inspired kitchen and bar is the perfect King West hot spot to duck into if you’re wanting to check out Winterlicious. They only accept walk-ins, so whether you can’t commit to a reservation or you just find yourself in the area, this is the spot for you. Their menu, created by Chef Rob Gentile, is packed with flavour and features lot of vegetarian options. We recommend the Pasta E Broccoli, the Calamari Grigliata, and the Panna Cotta for dessert!
Cactus Club
Instagram/ @cactusclubcafe
Originally hailing from the west coast, Cactus Club has become a Toronto staple. Drinks after work? Cactus Club. Power lunch with your team? Cactus Club. Girls night? Cactus Club. Fantastic Winterlicious offerings? Cactus Club. Their lunch menu features some of their classic dishes (hello Butternut Squash Ravioli and Feenie Burger) and is a great choice for a power lunch. From their dinner menu, we recommend the Peppercorn Sirloin, Grilled Dijon Salmon, and the Key Lime Parfait Duo to finish it off.
Bosk
Instagram/ @boskto
Located in the Shangri-La Toronto, Bosk is a sophisticated, polished and delicious Winterlicious option. Their asian-inspired dishes (with a distinctly Canadian flare) are packed with flavour, and the environment is stunning; the recipe for a perfect date night! We recommend the Hen Egg Pasta Sheets, the Slow Cooked Beef Short rib and the Prawn Terrine. Their wine wall also holds over 700 bottles, so your server will be able to recommend the perfect one to compliment your meal.
The Drake
Instagram/ @zalbertsen
This Toronto classic is the perfect blend of culture, art, and delicious food. Their Winterlicious menu, this year created by Chef Zac Albertson, is perfect for the cold snap Toronto’s currently facing (Beer Cheese Soup, hello!). Walking into The Drake, you will immediately feel welcomed and at home with staff eager to greet you day and night. While you’re checking out the Winterlicious menu, why not make it a full night with a show at The Underground; they always have amazing artists coming in, check out their listings here.
Mistura
Instagram/ @mistura_sopra
Mistura may be one of the lesser known restaurants participating in Winterlicious, but don’t sleep on this one. Their classic Italian food is second to none, with family recipes that have been on the menu for upwards of 20 years. We recommend trying out the Beet Risotto (it has delicious chunks of gorgonzola cheese throughout it), Nonna’s Lasagna and Tiramisu to finish!
Cafe Boulud
Instagram/ @abhishekdekate
Cafe Boulud in the Four Seasons Toronto is a full culinary dining experience that isn’t to be missed. From the mind of Chef Daniel Boulud, the menu is a bright mix of fresh and classic flavours. Be sure to order the Butternut Squash Soup, and the Grapefruit Sundae for dessert.
Insomnia
Instagram/ @insomniatoronto
This go-to Annex hotspot located at Bloor and Bathurst is known for their cocktails and brunches, and specifically for their famous home fries. For Winterlicious this year, you can take advantage of their brunch offerings with their $23 lunch seating, featuring classics like the PB & J Buckwheat Short-Stack, Eggs Memphis, and their Vegan Chocolate Layer Cake! If you’re going for dinner, the Fried Chicken and Waffles paired with one of their cocktails is a must.
Honourable Mentions:
Oretta
Instagram/@oretta
Located on King St. West just west of Bathurst is the ultra-Instagrammable Oretta. Visitors can slide into the art deco-inspired space for a $28 lunch seating featuring dishes like Beef Carpaccio, Burrata Pugiliese, veal ragu, pan seared salmon, and Sicilian Cannolo, or plan a dinner date for $48 per person and nosh on mains like flat iron steak and pan seared sea bass. Whatever dish you choose, you won’t regret it!
Noce
Instagram/@noce
Another Italian spot that can’t be beat is Noce, and they’ve got 20 years of experience to prove it. Head to this Queen West establishment for a $33 lunch that features wood fired arctic char, grilled Cornish hen, “Sex In A Pan” (aka Nutella and vanilla pudding in a pecan crust topped with mascarpone cheese, chocolate, and sponge toffee. Or indulge in their $53 dinner seating and experience a delicious wood fired Ontario veal chop and salmon crudo.
District Eatery
Instagram/@districteatery
District Eatery’s Winterlicious lunch and dinner run on the more affordable side, with a $23 lunch option that includes Grilled Peach and Beet Salad, Bowl of Zen (District’s take on the tuna poke), and Vegan Cheesecake. The dinner option will run you $33 for three courses with items like Piri Piri Roasted Chicken, Philly Carbone Flatbread, and Garlic Oil Zucchini Pasta. With lots of vegetarian and vegan options — and an amazing cocktail selection to boot — District Eatery is a a great option for everyone in your friend group!
Featured image: Instagram/ @boskto
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There’s no shortage of culinary marvels in Toronto. Multicultural, varying price points, and completely mouth-watering, Toronto’s food scene doesn’t disappoint. And in 2018, we were graced with even more amazing restaurants to add to our roster. Enough with the intro, let’s get to the good stuff.
Here are the top 7 Toronto restaurant openings this year.
Sara
Instagram/ @fooddudes
The newest restaurant by The Food Dudes, Sara opened its doors in October 2018. The 60-seat sister restaurant to Rasa sits on Portland near Adelaide in the heart of the King West district. Inspired by Japanese simplicity (Sara means “little plates” in Japanese,) and created with only the finest locally-sourced ingredients, Sara’s plates have already made their mark in the city. Jalapeno cucumber hamachi bites, Shanghai pork dumplings, and Pei aged rib eye offer just a glimpse of Sara’s delicious menu.
Seoul Shakers
Instagram/ @seoulshakersclub
A South American snack bar in the Bloordale area, Seoul Shakers is Leemo Han’s newest venture. The menu boasts Korean dishes with South American flair. Think Beef tartare topped with mongo squid sashimi and fried eggplant in a spicy sweet soy glaze. Open Monday through Saturday from 6 pm to 2 am, it’s the place to go for a feel-good dinner or a post-bar late night snack.
Alobar
Instagram/@elitegenmag
Created by the same people behind Alo and Aloette, Alobar is more than just a bar. The restaurant and cocktail bar, which is situated in Yorkville, offers an array of classically-inspired cocktails, brandies, wines, as well as classic upscale dining. On the menu, visitors will find mouth-watering options like torched hamachi, beef shortrib, Ontario lamb, and more, as well as Alo’s much-raved about Parker House rolls.
Le Swan
Instagram/@leswanfrenchdiner
Reimagined by Toronto restauranteur Jen Agg, this French diner, located at 892 Queen St. West, features some of the best comfort food in town. The menu boasts bistro classics and French-inspired dishes like French onion soup, beef (cheek) bourguignon, steak frites, mashed potatoes, meatloaf, and more.
Giulietta
Instagram/@giulietta972
If you’re looking for an upscale Italian eatery, look no further than Giulietta. Offerings include fresh pasta, pizza, meat and seafood dishes, all created by celebrated chef Rob Rossi. And diners can look forward to showstoppers like grilled octopus with white beans and herbed olive oil and sardinian culurgiones. Find Giulietta, which was recently named one of Canada’s top new restaurants, nestled at 972 College St.
Momofuku K?jin
Instagram/@hrhshayray
Located on the third floor of Momofuku (190 University Ave.), Kojin is the latest addition to David Chang’s family. But unlike Noodle Bar and the now-defunct Daisho and Shoto, Kojin offers diners a Latin American-inspired menu, which highlights Ontario’s finest seasonal ingredients. While the menu changes daily, here you can expect to nosh on shareable plates like the house made corn flatbread (which is paired with a variety of different accoutrements), or splurge on Ontario-sourced steaks (pictured in the featured image) and made-in-house sausage.
Featured image: Instagram/@momofukutoronto
Toronto’s streets are lined with restaurants serving up all different types of cuisine. There’s no denying that there are lots of options to choose from. But every now and then you happen upon a trendy eatery that’s everything you could hope for in a restaurant. You know, those places where the decor, vibe and menu come together to make it one of your new go-to spots. Take a look at our picks for the trendiest restaurants in Toronto.
1 Piano Piano
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There’s nothing not to love about Piano Piano. Playful yet sophisticated decor, welcoming vibes and a mouth-watering, elevated Italian menu. The space is brought to life with a whimsical interior and an exterior graffiti rose garden facade that makes it a true standout on Harbord Street. Choose from dishes like “The Pretty Woman” pizza, pumpkin agnolotti, and veal medallions. And if you want to share a meal with someone special, opt for the fried chicken or grilled opposite, both prepared for two!
2. Grey Gardens
https://www.instagram.com/p/BpIDU4YA5sJ/
Part wine bar, part restaurant, Grey Gardens is the perfect spot to enjoy a bite and glass of vino (oh, and don’t forget to ask about their secret sake menu!). Situated in Kensington Market, this trendy spot is perfect whether you’re going on a date or hanging out with friends. Offering plates like foie gras and duck terrine, pork chop with red cabbage and turnip, and white bolognese cavatelli, you’re sure to leave satisfied. The aesthetics don’t disappoint, either. Featuring a lively pastel mural, mint bar stools and gorgeous gold accents, it’s a place you’ll be more than happy to waste some time at.
3. La Palma
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlwDqglgmR3/
An airy Italian eatery with the most gorgeous design, La Palma is a Toronto must! Located on Dundas Street West near Trinity Bellwoods, you can sit and eat or grab-and-go from the bakery. If you want to experience all it has to offer, we recommend you stay. Their breakfast fare includes offerings like breakfast pizza, avocado crostini and greens, and chilled salmon. And on their lunch and dinner menu, you can find plates like Miami-style ribs, grilled halibut and 100 layer lasagna.
4. Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen
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Full of vibrant, tropical personality, Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen is one of the best restaurants to hit Toronto’s streets. With two floors of seating and a front and back patio open in warmer months, there’s room for us all to inhale Chubby’s delicious eats. Enjoy dishes including likkle Jamaican patties, kale and pomegranate salad, jerk chicken and Port Royal mac n’ cheese. Everything on the menu is shareable, so order a bunch and taste them all!
5. DaiLo
https://www.instagram.com/p/BpIOHGsA4MK/
An intimate restaurant specializing in French-Cantonese cuisine, make your way over to College and Palmerston for a meal you won’t forget! DaiLo’s menu consists of favourites like Sichuan braised beef, fried watermelon and the truffle fried rice, or opt for a $65 chef’s choice menu that showcases DaiLo’s full variety. If you’re more in the mood for a snack, head upstairs to LoPan, their dim sum snack and cocktail bar!
6. Alo
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One of Toronto’s most prestigious restaurants, Alo made the list of the world’s top 100 restaurants this year and snagged the first spot for Canada’s best restaurant in 2017 and 2018. Their menu is contemporary French, offering blind, multi-course tasting menus, which change with the season. Reservations open for two months at a time, so get ready to plan ahead if you want a spot at this trendy spot.
Featured image: Instagram/@chubbysjamaican
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One of the many perks of living in a big city is the availability of food at almost all hours of the night. Although, yes, Domino’s is delicious, when the late night munchies hit, it’s nice to know that you have other choices besides pizza. These restaurants have got you covered, with full menus and the option to dine in, even into the wee hours of the night. Calling all night owls, when the hunger pangs come knocking at your door, check out one of these delicious restaurants. Take a look at 13 places to get the best late night eats in Toronto below.
Fran’s Restaurant
200 Victoria St/ 20 College St
Fran’s Restaurant has not one, but two locations open 24 hours for your dining pleasures. Chalked full of your standard diner-type eats, the Toronto chain also boasts an all-day breakfast! Pancakes or eggs in the middle of the night? Yes, please.
Bier Markt
600 King St W/ 58 The Esplanade
Open to 12 am Sunday through Wednesday, and 2 am Thursday to Saturday, Bier Markt has an entire late-night menu to curb your cravings. Think pizza, fries, and comfort food; the perfect pairing to a nice cold beer or beverage when you’re seeking some eats past regular dinner hours.
Poutini’s House of Poutine
1112 Queen St W
If there’s one food in particular that tastes especially good after dark, it would have to be poutine. Lucky for you, Poutini’s House of Poutine is open to 12 am Monday to Thursday, and 3:30 am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Lakeview Restaurant
132 Dundas St W
The Lakeview Restaurant is probably Toronto’s most famous 24-hour diner, having had more than one movie filmed inside. Advertised as always open, the restaurant has a large menu with plenty of options including all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers, and more.
Earls
150 King St W #100
Late night dining can be upscale too – just take Earls for example. The premium casual restaurant is open to 2 am every single day of the week and you can rest assured that their kitchens are open late too; perfect for when you’re hungry and wanting a swanky glass of wine along with it.
Thompson Diner
51 Bathurst St
The Thompson Diner doesn’t skimp on their hours of operation, staying open until 3 am every day of the week. Along with some delicious comfort food, grab an upscale signature cocktail too. Sounds like a very enjoyable nightcap if I do say so myself.
Leslieville Pumps
929 Queen St E
Attention east-enders: a list of late night eats wouldn’t be complete without also including your area of the city. Leslieville Pumps, known for their tasty BBQ meats and poutine is open 24 hours. A pulled pork or chicken sandwich is just what the doctor ordered.
Sneaky Dee’s
431 College St
If you’re craving tacos and tex-mex, than Sneaky Dee’s should be a staple in your late night diet. Open until 2:30 am Sunday to Tuesday, 3 am Wednesday to Thursday, and 4 am Friday and Saturday, the College Street joint is a favourite of many.
Oddseoul
90 Ossington Ave
If you walk too fast you might miss Oddseoul on Ossington. The restaurant is inconspicuous with minimal signage, and it’s probably because the Korean-inspired snack food speaks for itself. Hit up this spot any day of the week, as they’re always open until 2 am.
7 West
7 Charles St W
Located in the ritzy Yorkville area, this romantic, multilevel cafe including a rooftop patio is open 24/7 for your dining pleasure. Get your fill of pasta, sandwiches, and drinks served literally at any hour of the night, or morning – depending on when you’re still awake.
Hemingway’s
142 Cumberland St
Hemingway’s is another Yorkville treat that stays open way past regular dining hours. The New Zealand-style pub serves draft beer and pub eats every day until 2 am and also has bragging rights due to their all-year rooftop patio.
Insomnia
563 Bloor St W
With a name like Insomnia it would be false advertising not to stay open late. Known for their brunch and comfort food, this Toronto resto is open until 2 am Sunday through Saturday. You can also count on some good beats, since there is always a nightly DJ on duty.
416 Snackbar
181 Bathurst St
416 Snackbar is another Toronto favourite that stays open until 2 am every day of the week. The menu features Asian-influenced small plates perfect for sharing, as well as craft brews and cocktails. While 416 has an ever-changing menu, their beloved Snack MO always remains the same.
Do you know any other places to get late-night eats in Toronto? Let us know in the comments.
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In a city where a new restaurant seems to open weekly, the last thing an existing hotspot can afford to become is stale or dated. Some of Toronto’s most beloved restaurants have gotten facelifts as of late, offering a fresh feel to the wining and dining experience. Check out the new looks at these favourite spots.
Sassafraz
Love it or hate it, Yorkville’s longtime staple Sassafraz is no longer the bright shade of yellow it has been for decades. After a two-year planning process, the restaurant – housed in a charming Victorian row house on Cumberland Street – has just re-launched with a new Soho-inspired look that shakes up its exterior, dining room, and S-Café. This sees the building’s exterior now a green sage colour (the doors remain the iconic yellow), and inside, you’ll find pale sage banquettes, walnut tables, and sparkling hurricane lamps and columns. Along with the renovation comes a freshly recreated menu full of internationally inspired dishes like Cape D’Or salmon with chilled soba noodles and ponzu dressing, and classic dishes like Fogo Island cod and chips.
Dbar
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My favourite corner @dbar. #toronto’s #livingroom by #dialoginteriors @dialogdesign
Just in time for TIFF in early September, dbar – the bustling bar inside the Four Seasons Hotel – revealed a whole new look. The lounge area now features a fresh and elegant blush and olive design by Alison McNeil, principal at DIALOG. Another impossible-to-miss talking point of the remodeled space includes large LED art screens behind the bar that display a 24-hour time-lapse of the city’s waterfront and downtown skyline, with a sunrise and sunset over the CN Tower all seen within minutes. The new look comes with a new menu, which features things like Sugar Cane Skewered Shrimp, Rillon on a Bun, Ham and Cheese Croquetas, and Tuna Crudo.
Labora
The award-winning King West Spanish spot, Labora, recently expanded its existing location after a successful first year in business. Originally located within Campo Food Hall, the entire 3,000 plus sq. ft. space is now dedicated entirely to Labora Restaurant and Bar. The newly remodeled space sees the restaurant’s seating capacity increased to 90 people and the spot now features a semi-private dining area for groups up to 12. In addition to more seating to mow down on the authentic Spanish fare – which includes menu highlights like Spanish cheese, tapas, and churros – the revamped spot now features 25 seats. Everything about the dining experience here now reflects that in coastal Mallorca, Spain.
Featured image: Instagram/ @alisondialog
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We’ve come a long way from the days of the simple grilled cheese – a few slices of Kraft Singles melted between two pieces of Wonderbread. While some of your lazy Sunday cooking sessions may still look like this, Toronto restaurants have taken their grilled cheese sandwiches up a notch. Some keep it classic with an added twist, while others go full-on eccentric. Here are the best restaurants in Toronto to satisfy your grilled cheese craving.
1. Brooklyn Tavern
The Pork Carnitas Grilled Cheese at Brooklyn Tavern is not to be missed. Made with cheddar cheese and pork carnitas, and served with a side of slaw and fries, it’s the perfect place to get your fix. And if your appetite is a little more hearty, don’t worry, you can always top your sandwich off with a fried egg for $2 more.
Image: Instagram/ @sophie.louise.w
2. The Stockyards
It doesn’t get much better than the grilled cheese at The Stockyards. They serve up the ideal twist on the classic grilled cheese with smoked cheese, green apple, caramelized onion, and thyme-scented sourdough. Yum.
Image: Instagram/ @liam.owens
3. Maha’s Egyptian Brunch
The grilled cheese at Maha’s is comfort food at its finest. Made with juicy dates that are sauteed in butter before added to their three cheese blend of Gouda, havarti and swiss, you’re in for a sweet treat. Stacked on egg bread, drizzled with honey and served with cumin home fries, salata balady or lentil soup, you’ll get the perfect blend of sweet and savoury.
Image: Instagram/ @imashleeeeya
4. Completo Club
For a Chilean spin on the classic grilled cheese, head to Completo and order their Loaded Grilled Cheese. Complete with aged cheese, diced tomato, refried beans, mashed avocado, roasted red pepper sauce and homemade hot sauce, it’s a true gooey masterpiece.
Image: Instagram/ @cathryn_moffett
5. Aunties & Uncles
Aunties & Uncles is one of Toronto’s go-to brunch spots, and if you’re craving a grilled cheese, it’s the place to go. It doesn’t stray far from the classic grilled cheese, made with tomatoes and challah bread, but the cherry on top is definitely their made-from-scratch ketchup for dipping.
Image: Instagram/ @jenna11235
6. Rashers
Known for making the perfect bacon sandwiches, it’s no surprise you can find a couple of delicious bacon-filled grilled cheese sandwiches at Rashers. Try the Bacon Grilled Cheese made with aged cheddar and smoked strip bacon, or if you’re in the mood for something sweet, opt for the Apple and Maple Grilled Cheese with maple glazed bacon, year aged cheddar and homemade apple chutney. And this just in, you can build your own, so choose your favourite ingredients and go wild!
Image: Instagram/ @rashersto
7. Hair of the Dog Pub
The Butter Chicken Grilled Cheese at Hair of the Dog Pub is an absolute must-try. Made with spiced curry chicken, a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and loaded on challah bread, you’ve never had grilled cheese like this before.
Image: Instagram/ @lauraheartsmusic
Featured image: Instagram/ @thestockyards
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Being a quarter Chinese, I grew up with dim sum as a typical Sunday meal, and it’s still one of my favourite ways to spend a Sunday morning today. From shrimp noodle rolls to deep-fried spring rolls, sticky rice and all types of dumplings, it doesn’t get any better in my books. Pair your dim sum eats with tea for the ultimate mouth-watering feast.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional dim sum restaurant, or want to go a little more upscale, these are the best places to get dim sum in Toronto.
1. Dim Sum King
Image: Instagram/@paychen
One of the only restaurants left with old-school cart service in Toronto, Dim Sum King is one of the best dim sum spots in Chinatown. The traditional dishes are always served fresh and daily specials make it a hot spot for Torontonians. Make your way up to the top floor and join the fast-paced eatery.
2. Luckee
Image: Instagram/@luckeeto
Blending Chinese tradition with culinary mastery, Susur Lee’s Luckee is a great spot for upscale dim sum. From lobster and asparagus dumplings to lobster rice roll with poached medallions, and crispy vegetable spring rolls, you can stick with classics or take things up a notch. Pair the beautifully presented dishes with a cocktail or sake and you’re in for a treat.
3. Rol San
Image: Instagram/@stephlimm
Don’t be surprised if you have to wait for a table at Rol San. The average wait time is 15-minutes (and even higher at peak meal times), but it will be worth it. Open until 2 am, it’s a popular late-night joint, which means you can enjoy dim sum at pretty much any time of the day.
4. Pearl Harbourfront
Image: Instagram/@pearltoronto
If you’re in the mood for dim sum with a view, check out this spot inside Queens Quay terminal at Harbourfront. Another one of the few dim sum places that still pushes carts around, you’ll get that authentic feeling with a panoramic view of Lake Ontario and the islands. Sip on jasmine, chrysanthemum or oolong tea while you enjoy traditional dishes like siu mai and steamed curry cuttle.
5. Rosewood
Image: Instagram/@katerryna
An all-day dim sum spot in the heart of Chinatown, Rosewood has become a local favourite. Offering the classics like steamed dumplings, steamed rice rolls, congee, and fried dishes like squid tentacles and shrimp and chive dumplings, it’s a go-to spot for your dim sum cravings.
Do you know any other great dim sum places in Toronto? Let us know in the comments.
Featured image: Instagram/ @luckeeto
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With summer coming to an end, it’s time to trade in our salads and barbequed dishes for comfort food, and it doesn’t get much better than a piping hot bowl of ramen on a crisp fall night. There are plenty of places to get the traditional Japanese dish in Toronto, but some places just do it better. If you’re looking to step up your ramen-slurping game this fall, here are 5 of the best places to get a bowl in Toronto.
Ramen Isshin
Their name means “One Heart One Ramen” and it’s clear they put their hearts into every bowl of simmering ramen they make. Their signature ramen is their Wok Fried Red Miso Ramen, but also make sure to try their exotic ramens including tsukemen, their famous black sesame tan tan noodle, and their white sesame shio ramen. Yes, you’ll be coming back here more than once! They also offer a large selection of vegetarian ramens with a vegan rice noodle option.
Image: Instagram/ @ramenisshin
Ryus Noodle Bar
If you need any indication of just how good this ramen bar is, it was just selected as the only Canadian ramen house to be included in the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, a Japanese ramen museum (yes, it’s a thing!) showcasing the best ramen from across Japan. They only open up two spots for non-Japanese ramen stalls, meaning it’s officially one of the world’s best. You can visit Ryus Noodle Bar in Toronto at its single location at Broadview, just north of Danforth to see what all the fuss is about.
Image: Instagram/ @ryus_noodle_bar
Kinton Ramen
Kinton Ramen is one of the most well-loved ramen bars in Toronto, and for good reason. It was one of the first authentic ramen bars to open in Toronto in 2012 and has since grown to nine locations in Toronto and two in Montreal. Their rich, flavourful soup base is made by simmering pork and chicken bones for over 20 hours, giving it an incredibly rich flavour. You can choose between pork and chicken broth (or a vegetarian option), a variety of soup flavours, thin or thick noodles and extra toppings!
Image: Instagram/ @kintonramen
Sansotei Ramen
Sourcing the highest quality ingredients both locally and directly from Japan suppliers, Sansotei Ramen has seven locations across the GTA, so you can get your fix whether you’re downtown Toronto, in North York, Markham or Mississauga. Their pork bone broth is made fresh daily, and you can choose from thick or thin noodles, and a wide variety of soups, including their signature creamy tonkotsu.
Image: Instagram/ @sansoteiramen
Ajisen Ramen
This ramen house started out in Kumamoto, Japan in 1968, growing to over 800 across the globe, including four locations in Toronto and the GTA. Ajisen Ramen features over 40 kinds of ramen on their menu, and their ramen is made in-house every day. Known for their “The King of White Broth”, a pork-based soup with high-quality ingredients, they also offer soup bases including tomato, curry, kimchi, and miso. If you’re into spice, make sure to try out their Aso Volcano Ramen to bring the heat!
Image: Instagram/ @ajisenramen.canada
Do you know any other great places to get ramen in Toronto? Share with us in the comment section.
Featured image: Instagram/ @helloteri
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