Have some visitors coming over the holidays and not sure where to take them to eat?
It seems like a new restaurant pops up every day in the city, but when it comes to showing someone what Toronto’s food scene has to offer, sometimes you gotta stick to the classics!
Here’s our list of 10 of the best Toronto restaurants to take someone visiting the city.
Recent Posts:
The best new Toronto restaurants & bars that opened in 2023
Here’s where you can get all-you-can-eat tacos in Toronto
Lambo’s
Touring the city and need a quick bite?
Lambo’s is a Toronto staple located in the Trinity Bellwoods area serving up some of the city’s favourite deli-style sandwiches. If you’re stopping by we recommend The Italian Trio, Caprese, or Classic Combo sandwich but you really can’t go wrong with whatever you choose.
Good news if you’re out of the east end – Lambo’s recently opened a new location on Queen Street E so you can enjoy no matter which end of the city you’re on.
Where: 176 Bellwoods Ave & 1372 Queen Street E
Paradise Grapevine
Looking for a cool spot with cozy vibes?
Paradise Grapevine has everything you need for a great night. To accompany their long list of funky wines are the perfect pairing snacks including their Cheese Plate, Spicy Guindilla Peppers, Sourdough Bread, Brie de Meux and Truffle Chips.
If you can’t get enough of the wines, grab one to go! Paradise Grapevine’s bottle shop is one of the best parts.
Where: 841 Bloor Street W
Prime Seafood Palace
Get the full culinary experience at Canadian chef Matty Matheson’s Prime Seafood Palace.
This restaurant located in the heart of Queen West will have your jaw on the floor as soon as you walk in with a stunning interior to match its incredible menu.
It’s no wonder this restaurant made it onto the Toronto Michelin Guide with dishes such as Sicilian Crudo, A5 Wagyu, Steak Tartare, and Lobster Spaghetti.
Where: 944 Queen Street W
View this post on Instagram
Milou
If there is one thing you have to do with someone visiting Toronto it’s take them for brunch.
Milou won’t let you down, known for its mouth-watering brunch menu featuring its classic Milou Breakfast, BLT Sandwich, and Pain Perdu. If you can’t make it for brunch don’t take this restaurant off your list! Milou also offers a delicious dinner, dessert, and snack menu.
Where: 1375 Dundas Street W
Minami
Take your sushi game to the next level!
Minami is another spot with an Instagram-worthy interior, food and cocktails you can’t miss out on, located on King West. The Salmon or Albacore Oshi, Wagyu Carpaccio and Salmon Crudo are just a few of the must-haves on this menu.
Don’t forget dessert while you’re here – Minami’s Japanese-inspired treats like the Japanese Cheese Tart or Dark Chocolate Cake with mango passion fruit curd and sorbet will leave a lasting impression.
Where: 225 King St W Suite 100
View this post on Instagram
Gusto 101 & 501
This Italian spot has to be one of the most popular Toronto restaurants.
With two locations, one on the city’s west end and one on the east end, Gusto is known for some of its signature dishes like the famous Mafalde Ai Funghi. Whether it’s pasta, pizza, or one of their salads, any choice is a good choice. Oh, did we mention their house wine on tap is $1 an ounce?
Where: 101 Portland St & 501 King St E
PAI
If it’s good enough for Simu Liu then it’s good enough for us!
Yep – the actor named this Northern Thai food spot as one of his personal favourite Toronto restaurants and we get why. This restaurant is another one that made the Michelin Guide, serving up a long list of yummy choices like Khao Soi, Gaeng Panang or their classic Chef Nuit Pad Thai.
Trust us – whoever you bring here will not be disappointed.
Where: Various Locations
Pizzeria Badiali
It’s no surprise that this joint has gone viral for its pizza slices.
Badiali usually has a line but trust us – it’s worth it. The Vodka Pie, Mushroom Bianco, Margherita or Pepperoni are a few of the options. And don’t forget to grab sauce! The Green Garlic Ranch and Hot Honey are *chefs kiss*.
Where: 181 Dovercourt Rd
View this post on Instagram
Bar Raval
Bar Raval is one spot you cannot miss for cocktails.
The unique interior and woodwork are truly a must-see and the drinks will have you wanting even more. The Under The Bridge with Red Pepper Agua Santa Mezcal and the Raval Martini are a couple of our favourites.
And no worries – Bar Raval’s tapas-style menu has lots of delicious food options too.
Where: 505 College St
Mamakas Taverna
We would be doing you and your visitors a disservice if we didn’t mention Mamakas.
Mamakas is right on Ossington Ave, serving some of the best Greek food around in the style of shared meze plates. Okatpodi, Xifias, Kotopoulo, and Baklava Cheesecake are on our list of must-tries.
Where: 80 Ossington Ave
One thing is for sure – whoever is visiting you in Toronto isn’t leaving hungry!
