Downtown dining has never been so diverse. Or deliriously delish.
We’ve surveyed the scene to find Toronto’s top five new restos, the most eco-conscious cantinas and veggie-friendly venues (vegan even), the best in brunch, the classics we love and the tastiest of the all-day cafés. From low-key to high-end, these are places where you can actually sit down and savour the vibe, not grab a quick slice or vindaloo to go.
A quartet of adventurous chefs chime in with their favourites – and the ones they wish hadn’t gone away – and we also point you to some of summer’s primo patio real estate – look for the symbol.
Not got enough on your plate? You do NOW!
Top 5 new restaurants
Recently launched eateries light up the food scene
Top 5 locavore restaurants
Keep it cool and conscious at spots that honour the planet
Top 5 vegetarian restaurants
Chefs’ meatless menus show cutting-edge creativity
Top 5 brunch spots
Where to get the best weekend chow-downs
Top 5 classic restaurants
These places have thrived for years for good reasons
Top 5 cafés
Grab lunch at casual spots like these
Top 5 luxe restaurants
These spots guarantee a spectacular big night out
Chef’s night out: Where the pros eat
Doug McNish
Formerly of Live Organic Food Bar, Urban Herbivore and Prime Steakhouse (!) and author of Eat Raw, Eat Well: 400 Raw, Vegan And Gluten-Free Recipes (Robert Rose)
Donna Dooher
Executive chef and co-owner of Liberty Village’s critically acclaimed Mildred’s Temple Kitchen
David Haman
Co-owner and chef at Woodlot, where you can find one of the best veggie menus in town
John S. Lee
Owner of 2011 NOW Readers Poll-winning fish ‘n’ chip shop Chippy’s
