9 brand-new Toronto bars and restaurants that every local should try before summer's over
Toronto's food and drink scene is already world-class, but it's getting a fresh boost with a wave of new spots that have recently across the city.
While it's never easy to say goodbye to beloved bars and restaurants, each closure makes room for something new. And with every newcomer comes fresh competition, raising the bar and giving Torontonians even more tasty options to choose from.
Some are already making waves, while others have the city buzzing with anticipation ahead of their debut.
Here are some of the best new Toronto bars and restaurants that you should visit before the summer is over (and you can thank us later!).
Queens Harbour
When: Open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Address: 245 Queens Quay W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This sprawling 23,000-square-foot restaurant opened on Toronto's Harbourfront on Friday, July 11.
With space for 800 guests and what's being billed as the largest retractable rooftop in Canada, it stands out as one of the city's most notable openings this year.
The menu draws from Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, served in a contemporary setting with views of the waterfront and the CN Tower.
It also offers a selection of cocktails, spirits, wines, and more, along with an open kitchen and sushi bar.
Vinny
When: Open Sundays to Wednesdays, 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., Thursdays to Saturdays, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Address: 480 King St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Vinny is a new vinyl-focused sound bar on King Street West, designed by Toronto's NIVEK REMAS studio. The space blends music, design, and nostalgia, with an emphasis on community and discovery.
Its interior feels like a collector's home, featuring stacks of records, vintage speakers, eclectic artwork, and furnishings that appear to have been thoughtfully accumulated over time.
Designed to feel warm and lived-in, Vinny offers a space to eat, drink, and enjoy a curated musical experience in an unconventional setting.
Oche
When: Open Tuesdays to Thursdays, 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., Fridays 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturdays 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. Closed on Sundays and Mondays
Address: 461 King St. W. Laneway, Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: For those unfamiliar with darts, the name Oche (pronounced ock-eee) might be puzzling, but it refers to the line players stand behind when throwing at the board.
Located on King Street West, Oche is a dedicated darts bar that combines food, drinks, and gameplay. The venue features 13 dartboards, a full-service bar, and a restaurant serving cocktails and shared plates.
While darts are the main draw, Oche also offers other interactive games, making it a lively hangout for casual players and aspiring Luke Littlers alike.
Central Taps
When: Open Mondays to Wednesdays 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., Thursdays and Fridays 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m, Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Address: 114 Ossington Ave., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This Calgary-based bar and restaurant chain recently opened its first Toronto location on Ossington.
Central Taps now has three locations across Canada, with another in Vancouver.
The Toronto outpost features a colourful interior and a roomy patio, along with a wide-ranging menu that includes everything from tacos and sushi to pizza and more.
Beso by Patria
When: Open Sundays to Wednesdays, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Thursdays to Saturdays, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Address: 478 King St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Beso by Patria recently reopened following a redesign, offering a new look and an updated approach to Spanish cuisine.
The interior features bold illustrations of matadors, flamenco dancers, and bullfighters, creating a lively atmosphere that nods to tradition.
The menu includes a range of cocktails and dishes that reflect various Spanish influences, inviting guests to experience the city's vibrant food culture in a relaxed setting.
Rayah
When: Open Wednesdays to Sundays (Café and pâtisserie, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., restaurant 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.)
Address: 507 Parliament St., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This new restaurant at Parliament and Carlton brings Moroccan flavours with a French twist.
The colourful storefront stands out, and the interior has a stylish, inviting vibe.
Known for its fully halal and alcohol-free menu, the spot is quickly gaining popularity in the neighbourhood. It serves pastries, mint tea, and coffee throughout the day, then shifts to hearty dinners rich with layered spices and comforting flavours in the evening.
Portland Square
When: Hours vary depending on venue
Address: 600 King St. W., Toronto
Why You Need To Go: Portland Square, a new multi-level dining venue at Portland and King, officially opened on Friday, July 25.
The building houses four distinct concepts: Rodeo Dive, a country-themed sports bar set to open on the main floor this fall; the Portland Room, a flexible event space on the second floor; Honey Chinese on the third floor, serving a modern take on Chinese cuisine alongside cocktails; and Primadonna, an Italian-American restaurant located on the fourth floor and rooftop.
The Lunch Lady
When: Open Tuesdays 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Wednesdays to Sundays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Closed on Mondays.
Address: 93 Ossington Ave., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Lunch Lady opened its new location on Ossington Avenue in June, honouring Co Thanh, who passed away unexpectedly shortly after arriving in Toronto last May.
Co Thanh earned the nickname "The Lunch Lady" after being featured on the late Anthony Bourdain's show, No Reservations, during his 2008 visit to her stall in Ho Chi Minh City.
With her family's blessing, the new spot aims to carry on her legacy by serving the same rotating noodle soup dishes she was known for, made with the care and authenticity she brought to every bowl, according to an Instagram post from The Lunch Lady.
Convivium Dining Community
When: Daily from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Address: 83 Yonge St., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Convivium is a new food and event space located on Yonge Street between Adelaide and King.
Housed in the historic Tin & Copper Smith Building, which dates back to 1857, the space spans three floors and combines dining with creative and collaborative areas.
The venue offers a European-inspired menu, alongside areas for private events, media production, and community gatherings, aiming to bring together chefs, artists, and professionals under one roof.
Enjoy, Toronto!
