The Best Neighbourhoods for Foodies in Toronto

Toronto is a foodie’s dream. Being such a diverse city, visitors will marvel at the vast array of dishes from around the world. There’s a lot to choose from- so we’ve outlined some of the best neighbourhoods for food lovers and tourists along the City Sightseeing Toronto tour route. We hope you are hungry!

Old Toronto/St.Lawrence Market (Stop 19)

The St. Lawrence Market is a no-brainer for those looking to grab a delicious bite to eat. Located in the heart of Old Toronto, the market’s rich history has played a major role in defining the city’s culinary scene. You will find a mix of Canadian favourites and international flavours, so show up with an empty stomach and curiosity!

Montreal-style bagels at St. Urbain are served hot out of the oven and a great option for those looking for a quick bite on a budget. Carousel Bakery has perfected their famous peameal sandwich – a classic, simple Canadian dish made up of smoky peameal bacon and the bakery’s signature honey mustard sauce. Fish and chips can be found at Buster’s Sea Cove, a popular lunch spot for those working in the nearby Financial District. Remember not to skip out on dessert, the best Portuguese tarts in the city are baked fresh daily at Churasco’s. 

Kensington (Stop 11)

Kensington Market is home to a very diverse range of cuisines to accommodate every craving, culinary preference, and budget. Over the years, Caribbean, Chinese, Latin American, and Vietnamese immigrants have settled in the market, each making their unique culinary mark on the neighbourhood. In the summer, tourists hit up Pedestrian Sunday, a monthly street festival with plenty of food offerings sold from outdoor vendors.

Poke has emerged as one of the biggest food trends in Toronto, and the freshest fish in town can be found at North Poke, a tiny, standing-room-only spot in the heart of the market. Right next door, locals flock to Torteria San Cosme for meaty Mexican street style sandwiches and elote. If you can’t get enough Mexican food, tacos are also a popular choice in Kensington Market, and Seven Lives prepares them to perfection. Amongst an abundance of casual eateries, Grey Gardens is a formal, sit-down spot for those looking for a long wine list and cozy ambiance. Don’t forget to head over to Bunner’s Bake Shop for gluten-free, vegan baked goods and homemade soft serve!

Baldwin Village (Stop 11)

Baldwin Village is nestled between Chinatown and Japantown, so naturally, you’ll find a handful of Asian cuisines in this neighbourhood. Omai is one of the newest additions, serving up sushi, handrolls, and lots of sake. Visiting Toronto in the winter months? Don’t miss out on Kinton Ramen, a staple for Torontonians trying to warm up in the cold. Down the street, Thai food can be found at the colourful and vibrant Koh Lipe. Those dropping by the Art Gallery of Ontario can head across the street to the Grange Mall for modern Japanese food at Manpuku. 

Koreatown (Stop 8)

Attention Tourists: make sure not to bypass Koreatown, a strip of boutiques and budget-friendly restaurants of between Christie and Bathurst on Bloor Street. Korean Village is a Koreatown classic, the staff is as friendly as the dishes are delicious. Ever wanted to try a few variations of traditional tofu stew? Buk Chang Dong Soon Tofu is the place to do it. Or, if Korean-Mexican fusion sounds like your thing, hit up Barrio Coreano for unique flavours and plenty of margaritas. Tacos el Asador is a great option for Latin American eats, and Japanhako is home to the only authentic yakitori grill in Toronto. Get takeout and enjoy your meal at Christie Pits, one of the largest green spaces in the city.

Harbord Village (Stop 8)

Tourists may encounter Harbord Village while walking from Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood to Kensington Market. Surrounded by residential streets, Harbord village is easy to miss, but not a destination to skip. The street is mostly made up of restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops, so there are plenty of enticing options for visitors.

Skippa is new on the block, and the best place to go for sushi and Japanese small plates. For upscale dining, head to Piano Piano for wood-fired pizza, charcuterie, and a much-loved mushroom cavatelli. Rasa offers international tapas in a cozy, dimly-lit setting. For quick eats or take-out,  Matha Roti, Harbord Fish and Chips, Harbord Bakery, and Almond Butterfly are all adored Harbord Village residents.