Photo via @bar_isabel Instagram
There’s no doubt that at one point in your life, you’ve either explored Toronto’s Little Italy or at least stopped by one of the many restaurants and bars, for a quick bite and drink. We all live pretty busy lives, especially in a city like ours, but if you’ve ever wanted to expand your tastebuds and explore a different part of Toronto, we’ve got the perfect list for you.
Come hungry and get ready to sip on some of the best cocktails around. Little Italy is home to some of the world’s best restaurants and bars. And if there’s one thing you should do this year, it’s making a reservation at one of these local spots.
Though a fan favourite in the summer, Little Italy is a familial and welcoming part of the city that must be enjoyed in any season.
So without further delay, here are 10 Little Italy restaurants and bars that you need to check out this year:
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Bar Isabel serves contemporary Spanish dishes with a focus on Catalan cuisine. They serve more of a family-style menu with an extensive cocktail and wine list that you can’t skip out on.
Where: 797 College Street
One of the most beloved family-owned restaurants in the city! Cafe Diplomatic serves the highest quality Italian food and coffee menu since 1968. They’re a popular spot, especially in the summer where you can kick back on the patio and have a few cocktails and nibble on some mouthwatering eats.
Where: 594 College Street
If you’re looking for elevated Mexican cuisine, check out La Bartola. Though they do have tacos, quesadillas, and starters, each dish is Mexican-inspired which means that Mexican ingredients are used to create a sort of fusion menu that may not be as traditional as you may think. But that’s the great part about it, they step out of the box to provide you with a memorable dining experience and whisk you away to a world of flavours with every bite. They have a curated list of Mezcal, cocktails, Mexican-style beer, and beer on tap.
Where: 588 College Street
More Italian choices, yes please! Il Padrino serves the most deliciously authentic, home-style Italian dishes. More specifically, Il Padrino serves dishes inspired by the Southern Italian City of Bari so you can expect authentic pasta and pizza dishes.
Where: 579 College St
This casual fine dining spot not only offers a French-focus menu but also a 3,000-bottle cellar and a program curated by co-owner and sommelier Jonathan Bauer.
Where: 597 College Street
Another classic Italian restaurant that serves great food and a memorable experience. They specialize in handcrafted pizzas cooked in a wood-burning oven and pasta.
Where: 665 College St
Experience the flavours of Latin America at Que Rico Tapas Bar. Enjoy a menu of cuisine from countries such as Cuba, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Colombia, Peru, and more. Come for the food and stay for the vibes.
Where: 720 College Street
Are you ready to eat? Kasai Grill House offers All You Can Eat Korean BBQ, Sushi, and Izakaya. You can expect a selection of appetizers, meats, seafood, vegetables, desserts, and more.
Where: 650 College Street
Here’s another AYCE dinner experience and it’s all about sushi. Sashimi Island is a small nook on College Street that might be easy to miss but once you find it, you’ll be hooked. You can expect all your favourite, classic sushi options and then some.
Where: 635 College Street
Described as “a Barcelona-inspired pinxto bar”, Bar Raval is known for its small plates, and list of cocktails, beer, and wine. This popular late-night spot was voted in the top 10 of the annual Canada’s 100 Best Bars back in 2022. Not only is it recognized in Toronto but also on a global scale.
Where: 505 College Street
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