We asked Torontonians which restaurants really deserve a Michelin star—Here's what they said
It's no secret that Toronto's food scene is pretty special, and the city's top restaurants are loved by locals and critics alike. While the Michelin inspectors have already made their official selections, their choices don't always line up with the favourites of the people who know the city best: its locals.
To better understand which restaurants might earn a Michelin star if Torontonians were in charge, we asked locals to weigh in on the spots they think deserve that prestigious recognition.
If you're unfamiliar with the Michelin star system, here's how it works: Restaurants are judged on five main criteria—ingredient quality, mastery of cooking techniques, the chef's unique expression through the food, harmony of flavours, and consistency from visit to visit.
A one-star restaurant offers "high-quality cooking, worth a stop," while two stars signal "excellent cooking, worth a detour." Three stars are reserved for world-class restaurants that are a must-visit destination.
It's a thorough process, with anonymous inspectors evaluating everything from the taste of the food to the restaurant's atmosphere. That said, not all restaurants in the Michelin Guide get a star; many exceptional places are recognized for their excellence without quite meeting the star criteria.
The 2024 edition of Toronto's Michelin Guide was released in September, and four new restaurants in and around the city earned a star: DaNico, Hexagon, Restaurant Pearl Morisette and The Pine.
Restaurant Pearl Morisette also received a Green Star, recognizing sustainability; while four others were awarded Bib Gourmand status (excellent food at affordable prices). However, two well-known spots—Yukashi on Mount Pleasant and Alobar Yorkville—lost their star status.
With all of this in mind, we asked Toronto locals which restaurants they think should get some Michelin love. Here are some of the most likely suggestions and why these spots might have a chance at making the guide.
Constantine Toronto
Price: 💸💸💸
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Address: 15 Charles St E, Toronto, ON
Why it has a chance: Spearheaded by Chef Adam Lafleur, Constantine showcases the best of local, seasonal ingredients in thoughtful dishes where bold, aromatic flavours take centre stage.
Anchored by a wood-burning oven and hearth, the kitchen turns out perfectly crispy pizzas alongside expertly roasted and lightly smoked meats and seafood. Vegetable-forward dishes are the true stars here, with a focus on family-style dining that encourages sharing and savouring each bite. The experience is elevated by a meticulously designed wine program, offering a mix of old-world classics and modern selections.
With its creative menu, commitment to local ingredients, and warm, inviting atmosphere, Constantine has all the elements that could earn Michelin's attention.
Lake Inez
Price: 💸💸💸
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Address: 1471 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON
Why it has a chance: Lake Inez offers a unique blend of Eastern European and Southeast Asian flavours, creating a dining experience that's as eclectic as it is refined.
The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and intimate, enhanced by a stellar selection of craft beers and natural wines. With its creative fusion, commitment to quality, and laid-back charm, Lake Inez is a hidden gem that could easily find itself in the Michelin spotlight.
Miku Toronto
Price: 💸💸💸
Cuisine: Japanese
Address: 10 Bay St. #105, Toronto, ON
Why it has a chance: Since opening its doors in 2015, Miku Toronto has brought its signature Aburi-style sushi to the city's Harbourfront. Led by Head Sushi Chef Junnosuke Fujikawa, the restaurant is renowned for its flame-seared sushi, where high-quality seafood is enhanced by a unique searing technique that intensifies its flavours.
The menu doesn't stop at sushi—Miku also offers inventive land-based dishes and Japanese-European fusion desserts, all crafted with precision. The sleek, contemporary setting with a raw bar, sushi bar, and patio promises an inviting dining experience.
Add in an extensive sake list and carefully curated cocktails, and the fact its Vancouver location has already received a Michelin nod, and it's clear Miku Toronto has the potential to snag a spot on the list too.
Taline
Price: 💸💸💸
Cuisine: Armenian
Address: 1276 Yonge St, Toronto, ON
Why it has a chance: Taline has already earned a spot in the Michelin Guide for its fresh take on Armenian and Middle Eastern cuisine, though it hasn't received a star just yet. The restaurant is known for its flavourful, aromatic dishes, from unique salads to vibrant mezze platters, all made with high-quality ingredients.
Taline's charm lies in its ability to balance authentic flavours with a modern twist, creating dishes that are both comforting and exciting. The warm atmosphere and beautifully presented food make it a local favourite. With its strong focus on quality and flavour, Taline could one day be in the running for a Michelin star.
David Duncan House
Price: 💸💸💸
Cuisine: Steak and seafood
Address: 125 Moatfield Dr, North York, ON
Why it has a chance: David Duncan House is known for its classic steakhouse experience in a stunning historic mansion. Offering premium cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and timeless side dishes, this city spot combines traditional cooking techniques with high-quality ingredients.
The ambiance is a major draw, and the beautifully preserved heritage building provides a unique and elegant backdrop for fine dining. With its rich history, attention to detail, and fine dining fare, David Duncan House could be a contender for Michelin recognition in the future.
The wild cards
Of course, not all the recommendations were what you'd expect to see in the Michelin Guide.
Some people were convinced that Costco's hot dogs deserve a Michelin star. Others argued that the hot dog stand at IKEA is just as deserving, especially since it always seems to be packed like a fine dining restaurant at peak hours!
While these choices might not exactly fit the fine dining mould, Torontonians clearly have a soft spot for their comfort food staples.
Michelin star restaurants in and around Toronto
- Aburi Hana (102 Yorkville Ave, Toronto)
- Alo (163 Spadina Ave, Toronto)
- DaNico (296 Richmond St W, Toronto)
- Don Alfonso 1890 (1 Harbour Square, Toronto)
- Edulis (169 Niagara St, Toronto)
- Enigma Yorkville (23 St Thomas St, Toronto)
- Kaiseki Yu-zen Hashimoto (6 Garamond Ct, Toronto)
- Kappo Sato (575 Mount Pleasant Rd, Toronto)
- Osteria Giulia (134 Avenue Rd, Toronto)
- Quetzal (419 College St, Toronto)
- Restaurant 20 Victoria (20 Victoria St, Toronto)
- Shoushin (3328 Yonge St, Toronto)
- Sushi Masaki Saito (88 Avenue Rd, Toronto)
- Hexagon (210 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville)
- Restaurant Pearl Morissette (3953 Jordan Rd, Jordan Station, Niagara Region)
- The Pine (157 Mill St, Creemore, Simcoe County)
No matter which restaurants have a star, it's clear that Torontonians have their own favourites—and they don't need Michelin to tell them where to get a great meal!
Ristorante Sociale sign.
The bar at Ristorante Sociale.
The dining room at Ristorante Sociale.
Dancer at Ristorante Sociale.
Appetizers at Ristorante Sociale.
Cacio e Pepe at Ristorante Sociale.
Branzino at Ristorante Sociale.
Dessert at Ristorante Sociale.
Cocktails at Ristorante Sociale.
Drinks at Ristorante Sociale.
