When it comes to food – Toronto doesn’t play around. Recent years have seen the restaurant scene literally blow up, with hundreds of new restaurants added over the past couple of years. People are eating out more and taking food more seriously in general, with food culture and events experiencing paralleled growth. One thing I have definitely noticed lately is that with this ‘bubble’ comes a greater need for knowledge of where to go, what’s new and what’s good. So if you’re visiting Toronto this summer, here’s a list of some of the best spots and upcoming events, no matter what you crave. First off, the get here, check out Air Transat for flights from London to Toronto, or Hip Munk for all other routes.
Asian Food
When it comes to Asian cuisine Toronto boasts a huge selection, and with so many options, each has their specialty. For the best dumplings, Mother Dumplings is hard to top. The best Wonton Soup can be found at Jim Chai Kee Noodles while the best cheap sushi can be found at Sushi on Bloor. For Peking duck, check out New Sky in China town.
Mexican Food
The Taco has risen to the forefront of the food scene in Toronto in recent years, and in turn several Mexican themed restaurants have been born. Of these, the two undisputed best are Grand Electric, known for its tuna ceviche and fish tacos, and La Carnita, known for its wide range of eclectic tacos and unique take home artwork.
Vegetarian
For starters, Kupfert & Kim is a vegan take-out spot located inside First Canadian Place that specializes in vegan and gluten-free rice or quinoa bowls as well as healthy breakfast options. You’ve also got Woodlot Restaurant and Bakery, which isn’t exclusively vegetarian, but its Canadian inspired menu features several meatless winners like the Russet Potato Gnocchi.
Seafood
New on the scene, but definitely exhibiting veteran seafood handling skills is Rock Lobster on Ossington. This place specializes in Lobster, with menu main stays such as the Lobster Role and Lobster Poutine, but they also have an impressive raw bar selection. Another newbie on the established Toronto seafood field is Hoof Raw Bar, sister to Black Hoof and specializing in raw goodies, sashimi and seafood charcuterie.
Meat Lovers
Also part of the new wave of restaurants backed by young and innovative chefs is Bestellen, where you can order a full rotisserie crackling pig (72 hours in advance) and one of the best steaks in Toronto. For fresh Canadian inspired ingredients like venison and the best beef cheeks you’ll ever taste, pay a visit to Bohmer, another Ossington Ave gem.
Upcoming Food Events
The Stop’s Night Market is on June 18 & 19 and features all you can eat and drink for $50. For the city’s best street food and craft beer, check out CraveTO at the Evergreen Brick Works on May 24th. Taste of the Danforth puts all of Greek Town on display, and serves up amazing Greek food for cheap. It requires no ticket and is on from August 9-11. Finally, there is city’s first ever Halal Food Fest TO on June 1 & 2, with free entrance, cooking demos, food sampling and a bazaar.
There you have it: a solid start on where to eat and what to check out this summer in Toronto. When visiting the 4th largest city in North America, one thing you definitely won’t miss is the vast abundance of food options – so hopefully this will help you out. Just make sure to bring your appetite!