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Feeling hungry or eager to explore the tastiest foods in Toronto? You’ve come to the right place! Toronto has a wide variety of delicious dishes to please every palate. Toronto is a fantastic place to explore local food, with its diverse culinary influences from around the globe. You can find dishes inspired by India, France, Asia, Mexico, and many other countries all in one city. In this complete guide, we’ll be your culinary tour guides through Toronto. We’ll show you the must-try dishes that celebrate the city’s diverse flavors. In addition, we’ll reveal the best places to enjoy these delectable delicacies. Whether you’re a local foodie looking for new experiences or a visitor eager to enjoy Toronto’s famous cuisine, join us in experiencing the distinct flavor of Toronto’s food culture.
Peameal Bacon Sandwich / Carousel Bakery
The Peameal Bacon Sandwich, a beloved local classic, is one of Toronto’s iconic foods. This sandwich is made with crispy peameal bacon that has been coated in cornmeal and is served on a soft bun or Kaiser roll. Carousel Bakery in St. Lawrence Market serves the best version of this renowned sandwich. This family-owned bakery, which opened in 1977, has spent decades honing the art of the Peameal Bacon Sandwich. They employ high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and offer customizable toppings to ensure that each mouthful is savory and authentically Toronto.
Visiting Carousel Bakery in Toronto’s bustling St. Lawrence Market not only rewards your taste buds with this wonderful sandwich but also involves you in the city’s lively food culture. The crispy bacon, soft bun, and choice of condiments come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors, making this sandwich a must-try for anyone exploring the city’s culinary delights. Don’t miss the chance to savor this Toronto tradition and discover why Carousel Bakery is the go-to destination for the ultimate Peameal Bacon Sandwich experience.
TEXTURE- The Peameal Bacon Sandwich typically has a juicy and crispy texture. The peameal bacon is often crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the bun is soft.
INGREDIENTS- Peameal bacon, Bun, Lettuce, Tomato, Mayonnaise.
| Food Name | Peameal Bacon Sandwich |
|---|---|
| Where to Enjoy | Carousel Bakery |
| Address | 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3, Canada |
| Website | http://www.stlawrencemarket.com/vendors/vendor_detail/56 |
| Opening Hours |
Monday : Closed Tuesday : 9am–7pm Wednesday : 9am–7pm Thursday : 9am–7pm Friday : 9am–7pm Saturday : 7am–5pm Sunday : 10am–5pm |
| Phone Number | +1 416-363-4247 |
| Price | Start from $6.45 |
Churros / Pancho's Bakery
For an authentic taste of Spain right in the heart of Toronto, make sure to try the churros at Pancho’s Bakery. Churros, the beloved Spanish treat, are fried to golden perfection and generously coated in sugar. At Pancho’s Bakery, you’ll find churros that are handcrafted with precision, offering the perfect balance of crunchiness on the outside and softness on the inside. These delectable churros are often served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce, creating a heavenly combination that’s impossible to resist.
If you’re craving something sweet, stop by Pancho’s Bakery for a delightful experience. The aroma of freshly fried churros fills the air, setting the stage for a culinary adventure. Whether you enjoy your churros inside the cozy bakery or take them to go, you’ll be treated to an authentic and unforgettable churro experience that captures the essence of Spain. Don’t miss the chance to savor these sweet sensations at Pancho’s Bakery, where tradition and quality come together to create a truly exceptional churro.
TEXTURE- Churros are typically crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a slightly doughy texture.
INGREDIENTS- Flour, Water, Sugar, Salt, Oil, Cinnamon and sugar.
| Food Name | Churros |
|---|---|
| Where to Enjoy | Pancho's Bakery |
| Address | 214 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L4, Canada |
| Website | https://www.panchosbakery.com/ |
| Opening Hours |
Monday : 10am–9pm Tuesday : 10am–9pm Wednesday : 10am–9pm Thursday : 10am–9pm Friday : 10am–9pm Saturday : 10am–9pm Sunday : 10am–9pm |
| Phone Number | +1 416-854-8770 |
| Price | Starting from $5 |
Bagels / St Urbain Bagel Bakery
If you’re in Toronto and looking for a light but satisfying meal, try some truly unique bagels. To taste this delectable delight, go right to St. Urbain Bagel. The hallmark of these bagels is their exceptional chewiness, a hint of sweetness, and the smoky notes acquired from baking in wood-burning ovens. The menu at St. Urbain Bagel boasts a diverse range of flavors, from classic sesame and poppy seed to inventive options like cinnamon raisin and everything bagel. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious bagel experience in Toronto, St. Urbain Bagel is highly recommended.
What makes this place truly special is the way they make their bagels – sticking to the traditional methods that have been perfected over time. Imagine mouth melting flavour of these hand-rolled bagels that have been cooked in sweet honey water before being baked to perfection in wood-fired ovens. It’s a flavor sensation unlike any other. St. Urbain Bagel’s creations are a treat for your taste senses, So, if you’re a food enthusiast or just someone who loves a good bagel, don’t miss the chance to visit St. Urbain Bagel. It’s a hidden gem in Toronto’s food scene that’s waiting to be discovered and savored.
TEXTURE- Bagels have a chewy and slightly dense interior with a firm, shiny, golden-brown crust. They are boiled before baking.
INGREDIENTS- Bagels are made from high-gluten bread flour, water, yeast, sugar, salt, and malt, and can be topped with various seeds or seasonings.
| Food Name | Bagels |
|---|---|
| Where to Enjoy | St Urbain Bagel Bakery |
| Address | 93 Front St E #11, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3, Canada |
| Website | http://www.stlawrencemarket.com/vendors/vendor_detail/103 |
| Opening Hours |
Monday : Closed Tuesday : 9am–7pm Wednesday : 9am–7pm Thursday : 9am–7pm Friday : 9am–7pm Saturday : 9am–5pm Sunday : 10am–5pm |
| Phone Number | +1 416-364-8305 |
| Price | Start from $1.80 |
Review on Google: “Excellent bagel place in the city. There’s always a short lineup in the morning. I like the savoury bagels like spinach and cheese which are very tasty. Worth a stop if you’re at the St. Lawrence” —Clam
Nachos / Sneaky Dee's
Try nachos at Sneaky Dee’s in Toronto and you won’t be disappointed. These nachos are a standout must-try. They offer a taste journey like no other, with crispy tortilla chips as the canvas and a lavish drizzle of gooey melted cheese as the foundation. What makes Sneaky Dee’s nachos exceptional is the variety of customizable toppings, from spicy jalapenos to creamy guacamole, refreshing salsa, and cool sour cream. For those seeking a heartier experience, adding spicy ground beef or succulent pulled pork is an option. Every bite is an explosion of flavors and textures, making Sneaky Dee’s a nacho lover’s paradise.
Sneaky Dee’s is not just a restaurant; it is a renowned place known for its large portions and vibrant atmosphere, often featuring live music and quirky decor. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or having it for yourself, indulging in Sneaky Dee’s nachos is a celebration of culinary creativity. So, if you’re in Toronto and craving nachos that take comfort food to a whole new level, make your way to Sneaky Dee’s and enjoy the nacho feast that has won the hearts and appetites of Toronto’s culinary fans.
TEXTURE- Nachos feature crispy tortilla chips topped with melted cheese for a gooey and crunchy combination. Additional toppings like tomatoes, jalapeños, and sour cream add various textures.
INGREDIENTS- Core ingredients include tortilla chips, meltable cheese, and customizable toppings like tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole.
| Food Name | Nachos |
|---|---|
| Where to Enjoy | Sneaky Dee's |
| Address | 431 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 1T1, Canada |
| Website | NA |
| Opening Hours |
Monday : 11am–3am Tuesday : 11am–4am Wednesday : 11am–4am Thursday : 11am–4am Friday : 11am–4am Saturday : 9am–3am Sunday : 9am–3am |
| Phone Number | +1 416-603-3090 |
| Price | Starts From $30 |
Margherita Pizza / North Of Brooklyn Pizzeria
This Margherita Pizza is something you must try in Toronto if you love pizza. This Margherita pizza is a masterpiece of minimalism, featuring a thin, chewy crust topped with vibrant tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. North Of Brooklyn Pizzeria excels in delivering this classic pizza to perfection, because of their dedication to using high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship. Their thin, crispy crust provides an ideal canvas for the harmonious blend of flavors, making every slice a delightful culinary experience.
When you go to North Of Brooklyn Pizzeria, it’s not just about eating a Margherita pizza. It’s like going on a trip to discover how amazing pizzas are made. The place feels welcoming, and you can smell the delicious pizzas being baked. Whether you’re with friends or on your own food adventure, this pizzeria brings a piece of Italy to Toronto. If you love pizza or classic Italian flavors, you should definitely check it out. It’s a must-visit for pizza fans!
TEXTURE- Margherita pizza offers a harmonious blend of textures – a thin, crispy yet slightly chewy crust, moist tomato sauce, creamy melted fresh mozzarella, and fragrant, slightly crispy basil leaves.
INGREDIENTS- Key ingredients include pizza dough, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil.
| Food Name | Margherita Pizza |
|---|---|
| Where to Enjoy | North of Brooklyn Pizzeria |
| Address | 650 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1E4, Canada |
| Website | NA |
| Opening Hours |
Monday : 12pm–10pm Tuesday : 12pm–10pm Wednesday : 12pm–10pm Thursday : 12pm–10pm Friday : 12pm–10pm Saturday : 12pm–10pm Sunday : 12pm–10pm |
| Phone Number | +1 647-352-5700 |
| Price | Starts from $19 |
Signature Singaporean Slaw / Lee Restaurant
The Signature Singaporean Slaw at Lee Restaurant in Toronto is a culinary masterpiece that fuses Asian flavors and textures in a way that’s both innovative and delicious. This dish, created by renowned Chef Susur Lee, is a harmonious blend of finely shredded vegetables, including daikon, carrot, cucumber, and crispy taro root, providing a refreshing and crunchy base. The unique feature of this dish is the clever mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors in the dressing. It consists of hoisin sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, and a hint of chili heat, which work together to turn a simple slaw into a flavorful experience. To further enhance the taste, the dish is garnished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, adding depth and aroma to the dish.
Lee Restaurant offers an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for savoring the remarkable Signature Singaporean Slaw. Chef Susur Lee’s culinary expertise is on full display in this iconic dish, which has become a fan favorite at the restaurant. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a sensory adventure that embodies the innovative and multicultural spirit of Toronto’s food scene. Whether you’re a seasoned food connoisseur or an adventurous eater seeking to try new flavors, The Signature Singaporean Slaw is a must-try dish that truly showcases the city’s broad and unique food landscape.
TEXTURE- This slaw offers a delightful mix of textures with its crisp and crunchy vegetables like cabbage and carrots, complemented by crispy fried shallots or nuts.
INGREDIENTS- Ingredients include cabbage, carrots, fried shallots or nuts, and a flavorful dressing combining sweet, tangy, and savory elements.
| Food Name | Signature Singaporean Slaw |
|---|---|
| Where to Enjoy | Lee Restaurant |
| Address | 497 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Y3, Canada |
| Website | https://leerestaurant.com/ |
| Opening Hours |
Monday : 5pm–10pm Tuesday : 5pm–10pm Wednesday : 5pm–10pm Thursday : 5pm–10pm Friday : 5pm–11pm Saturday : 5pm–11pm Sunday : 5pm–10pm |
| Phone Number | +1 416-504-7867 |
| Price | Starts from $39 |
Butter Tarts / Doo Doo's Bakery
In Toronto, there’s a sweet treat you absolutely must try, and that is Butter Tarts. And when it comes to the best place to find them, Doo Doo’s Bakery is where you can enjoy them. Butter Tarts are like tiny, delicious pies. They have a gooey and sugary center made with butter and sugar. Sometimes, they even have pecans or raisins for extra flavor. It is a flavor explosion that results from the contrast between the sweet filling and the flaky crust.
Doo Doo’s Bakery has been creating these delectable Butter Tarts for a significant amount of time, making them true masters of this craft. When you go there, you’ll feel like you’re in a cozy bakery with the wonderful smell of freshly baked goods all around. You can enjoy your Butter Tart right there with a nice cup of coffee, or you can take some home for later. No matter how you have them, these tarts are a taste of Canadian tradition you don’t want to miss in Toronto.
TEXTURE- Butter tarts have a delightful texture with a flaky pastry crust that gives way to a gooey, sweet filling.
INGREDIENTS- They are made with a pastry shell of flour and butter, filled with a mixture of butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
| Food Name | Butter Tarts |
|---|---|
| Where to Enjoy | Doo Doo's Bakery |
| Address | 187 County Rd 28, Bailieboro, ON K0L 1B0, Canada |
| Website | https://doodoos.ca/ |
| Opening Hours |
Monday : Closed Tuesday : 9am–5pm Wednesday : 9am–5pm Thursday : 9am–5pm Friday : 9am–5pm Saturday : 9am–5pm Sunday : Closed |
| Phone Number | +1 705-939-1394 |
| Price | Starts from $17.50 |
Caesar / Hunters Landing
When in Toronto, don’t miss out on trying the iconic Canadian cocktail, the Caesar, at Hunters Landing. This zesty and savory drink is a must-try for those looking to experience a Canadian beverage classic. The Caesar is a Canadian treasure, made with vodka, Clamato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and slightly spicy cocktail. Toronto’s Hunters Landing is the ideal location to savor this traditional Canadian beverage. They are known for their dedication to creating the perfect Caesar, using top-notch ingredients and carefully balancing flavors to ensure each sip is a delightful experience.
This iconic Canadian cocktail is best enjoyed in the lively atmosphere of Hunters Landing. With an extensive drink menu and attentive staff, this spot provides the perfect setting to savor a Caesar and experience Canada’s rich culinary culture. Whether you’re sharing this classic cocktail with friends or embarking on a solo adventure through Toronto’s bar scene, Hunters Landing is a must-visit destination for anyone eager to toast to their time in the city.
TEXTURE- Caesar is a creamy and tangy cocktail with a slightly thick consistency, featuring a salted rim.
INGREDIENTS- It typically includes vodka, tomato or Clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lime or lemon juice, and garnishes like celery, lime, and pickles.
| Food Name | Caesar |
|---|---|
| Where to Enjoy | Hunters Landing |
| Address | 82 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 4A6, Canada |
| Website | https://www.thelandinggroup.ca/ |
| Opening Hours |
Monday : 11:30am–12am Tuesday : 11:30am–12am Wednesday : 11:30am–12am Thursday : 11:30am–1am Friday : 11:30am–2am Saturday : 10am–2am Sunday :10am–11pm |
| Phone Number | +1 647-352-6082 |
| Price | Starts from $23 |
Conclusion
Toronto boasts a wide range of cuisines that food enthusiasts can savor. To kick off your day, try the Peameal Bacon Sandwich, a local favorite. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the crispy and sugary Churros. For a satisfying meal, the Montreal-style Bagels are worth a try. Moreover, try the Signature Singaporean Slaw for its unique blend of flavors. And of course, a visit to Toronto is incomplete without sampling the iconic Canadian dessert, Butter Tarts, and enjoying a Caesar cocktail for a true Canadian twist. Every dish in Toronto has a unique and delicious story to tell, making the city’s food scene a feast for your taste buds.
