The 40 Most Important Restaurants In Toronto
Toronto has quickly become a foodie's paradise. From spots serving up trendy foods like sushi burritos, scoops of cookie dough and charcoal anything, Toronto has been on the ball when it comes to the food scene. In celebration of the massive (and still growing) food culture within the city, we're wrapping up the most important spots.
Whether you are looking for the coolest restos, bars or café's, we've got you covered! These spots are hands down some of the most hyped and incredible food and drinks places that have popped up or have gotten some serious attention during 2017. So get ready to make your own list from these spots to hit up during 2018!
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Mahjong Bar
Where: 1276 Dundas St W // Trinity Bellwoods
Type: Chinese small plates
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Mahjong Bar is a "secret bar" in the city that despite having recently popped up, has already become one of the city's most popular night spots. It's not hard to guess why considering the secret spot is hidden by neon lit convenience store front that would please any aesthetic fanatic. Apart from the design of the exterior as well as the tropical interior, the small plates are perfect for anyone who loves to order several appetizers at typical restos rather than a main course!
Bangarang
Where: 552 College St // Little Italy
Type: Game bar
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Bangarang was the long awaited sister to Track and Field, a lawn sports themed bar that immediately became popular in the city. The original location housing bocce ball and shuffleboard while Bangarang offers billiard games. If you're a fan of a good cocktail and the opportunity to do something other than just chat by the bar, this is definitely the spot for you to check out.
Pray Tell
Where: 838 College St // Little Italy
Type: Bar
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Let's be real, you have most definitely seen nearly this exact same photo on your Instagram feed at some point this past year. Pray Tell has been a majorly popular spot amongst Torontonians and who can blame visitors?! From the plant wall to the china plates and how incredible the actual food is (because while we can rave about how adorable this place is we still have to talk about the food too!), this place is definitely not overhyped!
Good Fortune
Where: 130 Eglinton Ave E // Yonge and Eglinton
Type: Secret Bar
Price: 💸
Why you should go: If you are a fan of the whole "secret bar" concept in the city, look no further than Good Fortune. The adorably designed spot might be a little tough to find (we won't spoil the fun of trying to find it of course), it's well worth it. The bar operates with a pretty small but delicious menu but the real feature at this spot is definitely the drink menu and tropical themed interior.
Night Owl
Where: 647 College St // Little Italy
Type: Bar
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Nightowl recently has been a super popular spot for Torotonians considering the sudden arcade game bar craze that has hit the city. While they serve a pretty standard drink menu, the interior design and flare of the space is nothing short of extraordinary. From the wallpapered walls to the fun eccentric touches throughout the spot, you definitely will be whipping out your phone once or twice to snap a photo for Instagram.
Locals Only
Where: 589 King St W // King St
Type: Bar and tapas
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: 2017 was definitely the year of bars with perfect Instagram opportunities, and Locals Only definitely was a front runner in that department. We'll just assume they started the whole wallpapered bathroom craze but don't just think you'll want to walk in, snap a pic and then leave. Apart from the cool bathrooms, they've got a small but great menu so you don't have to spend too much time milling over your food choices!
Tilt
Where: 296 Brunswick Ave // Bloor
Type: Game bar
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Like I said, arcade game bars were just a thing of sorts this year (I blame this entirely on Stranger Things). If you are looking for a bar that specialized in arcade games, definitely look no further than Tilt considering they don't treat their games as accessories. Rather the spot is dedicated to all kinds of fun games you can entertain yourself with in between rounds.
Rebel
Where: 11 Polson St // Pier
Type: Club
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: REBEL has become a hot spot not only for massive parties but for concerts as well. Massive artists such as SZA and Dua Lipa have taken the stage this past year, and apart from concerts they've hosted some pretty insane after parties such as this year's Jingle Ball after event hosted by none other than Cardi B!
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Sorry Coffee Co.
Where: 102 Bloor St W // Yorkville
Type: Café
Price: 💸
Why you should go: If you went to Sorry Coffee this past year and didn't relate the caption to "Sorry" by Justin Bieber, did you really go there? It's no secret as to why this spot got so popular considering they hit Toronto's current favourite aesthetic right on the head. From the marble counter top to the chrome accents and minimalistic styled menu, this place is a blogger's paradise. (The coffee's great too.)
ODIN
Where: 514 King St E // Regent Park
Type: Café
Price: 💸
Why you should go: ODIN was another hot spot this past year, once again no surprise why considering the design of the counter is out of bounds. There honestly is nothing like it in the city and the minimalistic styled space in general has made it many local's favourite spot to study and get work done in between brews.
Offsite
Where: 867 Dundas St W // Dundas
Type: Café
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Offsite is another coffee spot that has been super popular and surprise, surprise it's another minimalistic spot with white and black accents! This spot has been the feature of ton's of locals photos, so much so that we're starting to think it's impossible to grab a coffee hear without grabbing a photo too!
Tucana Coffee
Where: 1413 Dundas St W // Roncesvalles
Type: Café
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Tucana Coffee has been subject to some serious hype considering they've put a bit of a spin on the white styled coffee spots that are popping up all over the city. While the space is extremely tiny, they've given it a ton of character with the tropical feature wall that has been attracting tons of Torontonians in from the street!
Dark Horse Café
Where: 684 Queen St W // Queen West
Type: Café
Price: 💸
Why you should go: How could we not mention Dark Horse? This chain of cafés around the city are constantly rammed with city-goers looking to grab a caffeine fix. It's pretty easy to guess why it's so popular considering how adorable the interior is and their incredible coffee!
Balzacs
Where: Multiple locations
Type: Café
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Balzac's is a staple coffee spot for tons of Torontonians considering their locations all over the city. Whether you are grabbing a brew from their original location or are on campus at Ryerson, the city practically runs on this stuff and 2017 hasn't changed that!
Quantum Coffee
Where: 460 King St W // King West
Type: Café
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Quantum is an adorably done space that serves some serious Distillery vibes with a slightly more modern touch. Apart from the adorable to-go cups and interior of the space, they've got a ton of house roasts for you to choose from- it's the perfect spot for any coffee connoisseur!
Pilot Coffee
Where: 50 Wagstaff Dr // Riverdale
Type: Café
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Pilot is an absolutely gorgeous space, but you don't need me to tell you that considering you only will need to scroll through their Instagram location for maybe a minute before adding it to your bucket list. Apart from the space's design, they serve up some incredible coffee, so yes, this place is definitely worthy for any coffee snobs out there.
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Café Can Can
Where: 89 Harbord St // Downtown
Type: Parisian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Cafe Can Can practically shut down the Toronto foodie Instagram when they started dropping photo of their adorable space. The French cuisine inspired spot serves brunch lunch and dinner but let's be real, brunch takes the cake at this spot. Plus it's the perfect lighting to capture this adorable spot!
The Broadview Hotel
Where: 106 Broadview Ave // Regent Park
Type: Eclectic
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: The Broadview Hotel's success ever since their recent opening has had a lot to do with the overall aesthetic of the space considering the design is hands down flawless. Though, don't be fooled into thinking that's all they've got going for them. Not only do they serve a great lunch and dinner service, but their breakfast menu is definitely something to write home about.
Early Bird Coffee & Kitchen
Where: 613 Queen St W // Queen West
Type: Café + brunch
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: How could we not include what was deemed as Toronto's "Prettiest Brunch Spot" this past year! From pink eggs benedict to flower decorated smoothie bowls, Early Bird goes all out for their brunch service that's hosted every day of the week- just try to hold off on digging in long enough to snap a good photo!
Baddies
Where: 679 Lansdowne Ave // Wallace Emerson
Type: Brunch
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Baddies is another brunch spot that has been crazy popular. From the exposed white brick to steel stools, the design of the space is absolutely ace and the quality of the food is just as good! From avocado toast to smoothie bowls, it's a spot that will please any brunch lover!
Saving Grace
Where: 907 Dundas St W // Little Italy
Type: Brunch
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Who doesn't love a classic brunch? Saving Grace operates on a rotating menu meaning that there's something different every time, so it's perfect for anyone who wants to switch up their brunch routine every so often. Though this space is extremely small and there is constantly a line or waiting list of some sort, so definitely pull yourself out of bed early for this spot's brunch!
Old School
Where: 800 Dundas St W // Kensington
Type: Brunch
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: How could we not mention Old School? While the brunch game in Liberty Village is insanely good, Old School definitely takes the cake. Not only do they have a great range of menu items that all taste better than the next, but they are all so damn photogenic! It's a foodie's paradise!
Starving Artist
Where: 810 College St // College
Type: Brunch
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Starving Artist is an oldie but a goodie, and the Toronto brunch scene considered to show Starving Artist's multiple locations major love this past year. Hands down they serve up the most delicious renditions of classic brunch favourites!
Gusto 101
Where: 101 Portland St // King West
Type: Brunch
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: How could we not mention the spot that Michelle Obama just hit up during her recent visit in Toronto? While she didn't stop for brunch, we definitely have to give it an honourable mention considering they serve a mean stack of pancakes!
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The Dime
Where: 538 Queen St W // Queen West
Type: Eclectic
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Queen Street Warehouse's newest venture has been a massive hit for any Toronto foodie, let alone one on a budget. The spot on Queen follows the same menu style as their original location, nothing on the food menu going over $4.95. Even with the low price, you get a pretty healthy portion for what you get. It's definitely a fan favourite for anyone who is a fan of small plates or tapas styled restos.
SU&BU
Where: 106 John St // King West
Type: Sushi
Price: 💸
Why you should go: SU&BU, also known as the spot that brought the ever so popular "Sushi Burger" to Toronto. The crazy dish earned some serious attention across the globe and foodies around the city rejoiced when this spot opened and started offering the interesting food concept.
Monga
Where: 692 Yonge St // Downtown
Type: Korean
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Monga had massive line ups when it first opened and we can't blame anybody who decided to stick it out in line to get their first bite. The spot features massive hand held pieces of Korean deep fried chicken as well as smaller nuggets if you are looking for finger food. The spicy spot continues to be a favourite for locals around the area!
Hanmoto
Where: 2 Lakeview Ave // Parkdale
Type: Japanese small plates
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Hanmoto has become crazy popular in recent months, their small plates menu si perfect for anybody who prefers ordering several appetizers whenever they go out rather than a main course. They've got a great atmosphere, great menu and great drinks, the spot has become a triple threat that city-goers can't stay away from!
Schmaltz Appetizing
Where: 414 Dupont St // The Annex
Type: Bagels
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Everybody loves a classic bagel with cream cheeses, but Schmaltz Appetizing took the concept to a new level when they spruced up smoked salmon bagels. From the fresh fish and capers to the healthy portions of cream cheese, they do the treat like no other bagel spot in the city ever could!
Wilbur Mexicana
Where: 552 King St W // King West
Type: Mexican
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Tacos once again reigned in 2017 as one of the most popular foods in the city. While there are a ton of new spots popping up, Wilbur Mexicana has continued to stay a city-favourite for tons of foodies. From their staple menu of fresh tacos and a massive selection of hot sauces to the impeccably designed interior, it's no secret why it's arguably the most popular taco spot in the city!
Oyster Boy
Where: 872 Queen St W // Queen West
Type: Seafood
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Oysters became a massive thing in the city and with that came tons of oyster bars popping up throughout Toronto. Though, if there is one spot that continues to serve some incredible oysters, it's definitely Oyster Boy!
WVRST
Where: 609 King St W // King West
Type: German
Price: 💸
Why you should go: WVRST brought a little piece of Germany to the city and has become widly popular in the city due to their insane offerings such as Kangaroo and Rabbit sausages! Whether you are down to try one of their wild options of just want a classic sausage and the German food hall ambiance, you are guaranteed to enjoy!
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Oretta
Where: 633 King St W // King West
Type: Italian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Oretta has been and continues to be a hot spot for Torontonians, especially any kind of blogger that lives in the city. From the gorgeous interior design to the actual food they offer, they cover all of the bases. Whether you are grabbing an early dinner or looking for late night wine and charcuterie, Oretta is definitely the spot to go to.
Blue Blood
Where: 1 Austin Terrace // The Annex
Type: Steakhouse
Price: 💸💸💸💸
Why you should go: Blue Blood's recent opening garnered the attention of any and all looking to splurge on a classic steak dinner. Not only is the interior absolutely stunning, but their a la carte styled menu is impressive. While it isn't anything different from a classic steak house, the reality of eating in a castle definitely spruces up the idea of it.
Planta
Where: 1221 Bay St // Yorkville
Type: Vegan
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Vegan restos were majorly popular this year with tons opening their doors around the city, from Hello123 to Hogtown Vegan's second location, clean and ethical eating is definitely in demand. Planta though definitely was a specifically anticipated spot considering the adorable interior and impressive menu!
La Palma
Where: 849 Dundas St W // Little Italy
Type: Italian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: La Palma's interior was what initially caught the Toronto foodie scene's attention, but once they released their menu (including a 100 layer lasagna), that's when the spot's popularity really took off. Their Italian inspired menu has routinely impressed anybody who's been able to snag a table, so if you haven't checked out the spot already it definitely should get added to your list!
Piano Piano
Where: 88 Harbord St // The Annex
Type: Italian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Piano Piano has been a major hot spot, so much so that it's been practically impossible for most people to make a reservation! The adorable painted exterior of the spot is fun and playful but their cooking staff definitely is not playing any games when it comes to creating their star dishes. From their pasta to pizza, they do Italian food like no other spot in the city can!
Figo
Where: 295 Adelaide St W // Downtown
Type: Italian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Figo is one of those spots that just hits every aspect of a great restaurant right on the head. From the design of the spot (and their incredibly crafted bar) to the overall ambiance, it's such a comfortable and enjoyable space to eat it. Plus the menu is perfect for anybody who loves Italian, or just pizza in general, seriously they serve hands down the best Burrata pizza this city has ever seen.
The Cheesecake Factory
Where: 3401 Dufferin Street // Yorkdale
Type: American style family restaurant
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: We couldn't be talking about the most hyped out restaurants of 2017 if we didn't mention The Cheesecake Factory! The American mega-chain's first Canadian endeavour still proves to be popular considering there are still hour long waits to even get a table, weeks after the spot has been open!
El Nahual
Where: 1993 Keele St // Amesbury
Type: Mexican
Price: 💸
Why you should go: With tacos still being crazy popular in the city comes 2017's hottest new taco spot, El Nahual. This spot definitely operates on a "no frills" mentality, so don't be expecting a gorgeous interior, but definitely do expect some fresh and incredible tacos that will keep you coming back time and time again for more!