Summer is almost here and patio season has officially kicked off! If you’re looking to try something new or would love to explore all the wonderful restaurants and bars along the Ossington strip, we’ve got the perfect list for you.
It’s time to expand your horizons and explore the next most popular block in Toronto, besides Queen Street, if you haven’t already. The Ossington strip is home to a handful of hidden gems and must-try, popular restaurants and bars.
Here’s a list of 14 restaurants and bars on the Ossington strip that you need to enjoy this year:
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La Banane
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Here’s where you’ll find some of the best French-inspired cuisine on Ossington. La Banane is the perfect excuse to get dressed up and enjoy a fine dining experience.
Where: 227 Ossington Ave
Bar Koukla
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 Ave
Bar Shozan
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
Downtown Winery
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
Foxley
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This walk-in only establishment has been a fan favourite for years. They’re known for their ceviche, asian and Pan-Latin dishes. Want to enjoy dinner on a patio? they have a secret-though-not-so-secret patio in the back.
Where: 207 Ossington Ave
I Deal Coffee & Wine
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
ODDSEOUL
They’re baaack! ODDSEOUL has officially reopened and they’re ready to serve you some of the best Korean dishes. Paired with one of their deliciously crafted cocktails, you can’t go wrong here.
Where: 90 Ossington Ave
Paris Paris
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 summer spot. They offer a seasonal, contemporary, bistro-inspired menu and a wonderful wine, spirits, and cocktails menu,
Where: 146 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
Reposado
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.
Where: 136 Ossington Ave
Rhapsody
A one-of-a-kind sensory experience has opened up on the Ossington strip! Rhapsody offers a “symphonic fusion of food, drink, and music, with a whimsical woods-inspired backdrop.” Expect mouth-watering Peruvian-Japanese fusion-inspired tapas bites.
Where: 214 Ossington Ave
Sweaty Betty’s
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
UNION
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
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.
Karen Doradea
