The longer you live in Toronto, the more it feels like home. What is there not to love about this great city? It’s exciting and busy, full of friendly faces but not overcrowded. There is a stellar transit system that quickly takes you almost anywhere you want to go. For a busy metropolis, there are beautiful green spaces and parks everywhere. To top it all off, there is no end to the leisure activities you can enjoy in the city.
However, let’s not kid ourselves. It’s really all about the food! And Toronto has one of the best dining scenes you can find anywhere. There is simply no better way to bond with your friends and loved ones than by sharing a meal together.
What are some of the best neighbourhoods for food lovers?
Bloor West Village
I bet you didn’t know you could travel the world in just eight blocks! Bloor West Village offers a vast selection of restaurants in almost every ethnic flavour imaginable, and everything is within minutes of each other! Whether you’re craving Japanese, Italian or Indian cuisine or just want something sweet, you’ll find it right around the corner.
Do you want to know what else Toronto has to offer, other than an amazing food scene? Check out some of our other posts:
Here are a few of our favourite restaurants in Bloor West Village:
Flame Food and Design
What could be better than an upscale Turkish restaurant and trendy shop all in one building? Add in one of the best patios in the neighbourhood, and you’ve just discovered your next favourite hotspot at Flame Food and Design.
Bloom Restaurant
Have you ever had authentic Latino cuisine, with dishes from Spain, Cuba, Peru and Argentina? If not, head on over to Bloom Restaurant, where the atmosphere is almost as inviting as the food.
Ka Chi on Bloor West Village
A Korean BBQ is the perfect way to celebrate with friends, so why not visit Ka Chi on Bloor West Village? You’ll find Asian comfort foods like fried rice and ramen, and other culinary treats like seafood pancakes or beef glass noodles. Stop by for a quick brunch or a full-course meal!
It isn’t just the restaurants that put Bloor West Village at the top of this list. Walk along the street, and you’ll find fresh fruit markets and other small vendors that will delight your senses and your taste buds.
And don’t forget about the Toronto Ukrainian Festival this September, where you can enjoy authentic European fare while dancers, singers and musicians entertain you as you dine!
Parkdale
Parkdale is one of Toronto’s oldest neighbourhoods, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more diverse area or dining scene. There are several Tibetan restaurants in the area. Each one has a slightly different twist, so you have to try them all. Parkdale provides dining options in many flavours. Here are a few of our favourites:
Tibet Kitchen
The beautiful patio alone makes Tibet Kitchen worth a visit, and the food will keep you coming back for more. If you’re looking for a casual night out while enjoying a taste of momos, chicken chilli or phingsha, then come on over!
Grand Electric
What could be better than a night out with friends at a large communal table with tacos, quesadillas and other Mexican favourites? The dining room at Grand Electric can accommodate parties of up to 10. If you have a large group, head on over to the patio, where they can seat up to 14 people.
Restaurant Le Phénix
Want to enjoy some authentic French dishes in a casual, unpretentious setting? Restaurant Le Phénix is well known for its relaxing atmosphere, where classics like baguettes, escargot, spring lamb are on the menu.
The Junction
Do you love good food and beer? Then a visit to the Junction is a must. You’ll find breweries everywhere, offering casual but satisfying cuisine and every kind of beer on tap you can imagine. Here are a few places you have to try:
Hole in the Wall
The entryway is notoriously hard to find, and that is part of the fun. Once you’ve found the Hole In The Wall, you can expect to enjoy creative dishes, delightful cocktails and a funky atmosphere. The menu constantly updates, but you can always rely on delectable staples like fish & chips, burgers and wood-fired pizza.
Nodo Junction
Italian comfort food at Nodo Junction is exactly what you need to warm up on a cold day. Or to cool down on a hot day. To celebrate with friends or contemplate life over a plate of linguine. In other words, it is always the perfect time for pasta. Try something new and daring, or stick with the classics like fettucini or rigatoni. The extensive menu always has something for every taste.
Luna Junction
Luna Junction has been a fixture of the neighbourhood for over 20 years. Their delicious Mediterranean and Portuguese-inspired dishes keep residents and visitors coming back for more. Whether you want to stop for a quick lunch or linger over a drink after dinner, you are welcome at the Luna Junction.
If all this talk about food makes you want to live in Toronto, check out some of our listings here.
High Park
High Park may be famous for its parks, green spaces and playgrounds. However, don’t be fooled. The food scene of the neighbourhood is equally worth your attention. What are some of the best spots to satisfy your hunger after exploring nature?
Here are some options that will never disappoint:
The Grenadier Cafe
The food at The Grenadier Cafe is simple yet delicious, with popular items even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Sit down for a casual brunch or have pancakes for supper with the all-day breakfast option. Their real claim to fame, however, is the view. The patio overlooks the park and offers a breathtaking view from Spring until Fall.
Bukhara Grill
While you’re waiting, the rustic setting, dark wood floors, white tablecloths and beautiful artwork will take you away to a different world. The atmosphere at Bukhara Grill is only the beginning. Once your selection from the traditional Indian menu arrives, you’ll forget all about the setting as you dig into the delicious food.
The Mugshot Tavern
No description of the High Park food scene would be complete without mentioning The Mugshot Tavern. Yes, the food is delicious. You can’t go wrong with options like poutine, mac & cheese fritters or southern fried chicken. What really makes your night, however, is the friendly staff and the humour. The restaurant is decorated with celebrity mugshots. You can dine as you discuss who did what.
Roncesvalles Village
Welcome to Roncevalles Village! Or “Roncy” as the residents call it. You’re about to discover one of the trendiest spots in Toronto. What gives this neighbourhood so much character? Walk around all day, and there’s hardly a chain business in sight. Instead, you’ll find countless creative, independently owned greengrocers, delis, coffee shops and bakeries. The food scene in Roncevalles is one of Toronto’s best. With over 60 restaurants to choose from, it’s hard to pick a favourite. However, we’ll give it our best shot:
La Cubana
A deli, a takeout restaurant and a dining area all in one, La Cubana provides Cuban comfort food that will make your mouth water. Everything is made in-house. If you dine in, you can browse their extensive drink selection, including their own brand of craft beer.
Chopin Restaurant
Roncevalles has a large Polish community that cherishes their heritage, and it is reflected at Chopin Restaurant. It is a modern menu filled with European and Polish delights. Try some pierogi, schnitzel or potato pancakes for starters. If your timing is right, you may also get to enjoy live entertainment.
Bar Bacan
Bar Bacan offers a celebration of Latin flavours. Whet your appetite with yuca fries or sweet plantains, but save room for the main course. Choose from empanadas, arepas or a selection of vegetarian or vegan options.
Do you want to know more about the neighbourhoods in the West End? You can find all of our guides right here.
