Start crossing off that bucket list, try something new, and check out a new restaurant this year. If that’s on your mind, we’ve got the perfect list for you.
It’s time to ditch King Street for a bit and explore the next most popular block in Toronto if you haven’t already. The Ossington strip is home to a handful of hidden gems and must-try, popular restaurants and bars.
At this point, you’ve either run through the strip and all it has to offer or you don’t know where to start. It’s all good, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s a list of 10 restaurants and bars on the Ossington strip that you need to enjoy this year:
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Sweaty Betty’s
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This popular dive bar has all the elements for a great night out. Good music, chill vibes, and a great drink menu. If you’re looking for a last-minute spot for a few drinks, Sweet Betty’s is the place to be.
Where: 13 Ossington Ave
Season Six
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If you’re one of the many people looking for gluten-free options, Season Six has an entire menu dedicated to it. It is a full-service dining spot, cocktail bar, and quick-service kiosk.
Where: 188 Ossington Ave
Downtown Winery
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This subtle spot is a gem hidden in plain sight. Although it may not stand out amongst the rest, it definitely does when it comes to its wine list. Need a glass of red? You’ll enjoy the wine bar.
Where: 30 Ossington Ave
Pastiche
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Pastiche is the spot to go when you’re searching for a late-night adventure. Shaken, swirled, or stirred – its cocktail menu is small yet mighty but we’re sure they’re able to whip something up for you if you may not vibe with one. Oh, and stop by for some eats too, it can’t always be about drinks… or can it?
Where: 59 Ossington Ave
UNION
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Now here’s a spot where you can enjoy some delicious French cuisine in an inspired Paris bistro. Their menus are updated daily in order to make sure that they are using the freshest local and seasonal ingredients around.
Where: 72 Ossington Ave
Reposado
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Look up before you miss this top spot. Reposado Bar is the kind of bar you stop at for a few tequila shots with some good company as you enjoy live music. Their kitchen is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm.
Where: 136 Ossington Ave
Bar Koukla
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If you know Mamakas Taverna, then you’ll love Bar Koukla – it’s what they describe as the “younger, more rebellious sibling,” but we love her. They’re an Aegean-inspired meze and wine bar that’s open late for you night owls.
Where: 88 Ossington Avenue
Paris Paris
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If there’s one place you need to check out on Ossington, it’s Paris Paris. An auto garage turned restaurant and bar, Paris Paris is as great in the winter as it is in the summer thanks to its inviting and warm space. They offer a seasonal, contemporary, bistro-inspired menu and a wonderful wine, spirits, and cocktails menu,
Where: 146 Ossington Avenue
Bar Shozan
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Here’s another Japanese restaurant that serves some of the most mouthwatering dishes around. Bar Shozan specializes in Japanese tapas, but you’ll be sure to find your favourite sushi, ramen, and teishoku set meals. Don’t forget about its list of sakes, wines, beers, and cocktails!
Where: 164 Ossington Ave
I Deal Coffee & Wine
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Coffee and wine. The two things that get us rolling through a Friday. Not only is this a place where you can get your caffeine fix as early as 7 am but you can stop by in the evening for a fine glass of wine, too.
Where: 162 Ossington Ave and 221 Sorauren Ave
Karen Doradea
Senior Staff Writer, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Netflix, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.
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