Toronto is famous as a city full of interesting people, breathtaking landmarks, exciting festivals and live music. It’s also one of the most family-friendly places you’ll ever find, with a slew of fun activities for children and the “young at heart” of all ages.
However, one aspect of Toronto living shines above all others: the incredible, diverse dining scene. 2022 marks a particularly exciting year for food lovers as a whopping 13 restaurants made it into the Michelin Guides for the first time ever. If you didn’t already know, this publication is the definitive guide for food aficionados worldwide. Achieving a single star is the height of achievement in the culinary world.
Since food is the one thing that can always bring family and friends together, let’s take a look at some of our favourite neighbourhoods with the best restaurants.
The Annex
A restaurant doesn’t have to make the Michelin Guides to delight your tastebuds. There are high-quality culinary options on every corner, from casual pub fare to fine dining. However, you’ll find many that did make the cut either in or within minutes of the Annex, one of Toronto’s trendiest midtown neighbourhoods. Here are a few notable examples:
Sushi Masaki Saito
Masaki Saito has earned the coveted honour of being the only chef in the world to earn two Michelin stars in both Toronto and New York. His high-end masterpieces dazzle the senses, not just taste, but sight, texture, and smell. You may have to wait for the pleasure of dining at Sushi Masaki Saito as the word of its quality has gotten out. Currently, they are booking reservations a month in advance!
Aburi Hana
Translated from Japanese, Aburi means “flame seared,” and many of the delicious creations from Chef Nakagawa incorporate the technique. The result is a dish that is smoky, tender, and overloaded with flavour. Add a curated selection of sparkling sake and wine, and you’ll quickly see why Aburi Hana has achieved a coveted Michelin star.
Alobar Yorkville
Though officially located in Yorkville, Alobar Yorkville is just minutes from the Annex. This unassuming, simply decorated bistro is full of surprises. Every creative European and Asian-inspired dish is made from scratch, offering choice seafood, fish and chops, and a selection of world-class wines. Another Michelin star winner for their outstanding menu options!
Enigma Yorkville
At Enigma Yorkville, you’ll enjoy a culinary celebration of the freshest, finest seasonal foods sourced locally and abroad. Chef Quinton takes a truly unique approach to service. There are no a la carte dishes to choose from. Instead, everything is served on a seasonal blind-tasting menu. You never know what to expect, except that these gourmet offerings have earned a Michelin star. The restaurant is in such demand that you can only get a table by reserving well in advance.
Believe it or not, for some people, the incredible dining options are only the second-best thing about Toronto life. For them, it’s all about the shopping. Find out more in our posts below:
- Our Top Local Toronto Boutiques for All Your Holiday Shopping
- 5 Toronto Furniture Stores to Give Your Home a Makeover
- Top 4 Stores for Balcony Gardeners in Toronto
St. Lawrence Market
Fresh food is the name of the game for St. Lawrence Market, which attracts thousands of visitors each year. You’ll find more than 120 vendors under the same roof, offering a unique array of fresh vegetables, curated meats, creative condiments, and much more. The neighbourhood itself is family-friendly, full of people from all different cultural backgrounds.
A walk around brings you to a plethora of dining options. There are too many fantastic restaurants, bistros, and cafes to count, but only one Michelin star winner:
Don Alfonso 1890
The modern menu at Don Alfonso 1890 is designed to dazzle and delight. Sitting on the 38th floor of the Weston Harbour Castle, the view of the harbour is as spectacular as the food. It isn’t just a Michelin star winner. The restaurant has earned a host of accolades, including being named the Best New Restaurant in the World by Gambero Rosso.
Thinking of relocating to Toronto? Here are some of the great neighbourhoods to consider:
King West Village
King West Village offers the epitome of downtown living. As soon as you step outside your door, you’ll be greeted by the sight of majestic skyscrapers, with every convenience and amenity minutes away. You’ll also have easy access to countless upscale restaurants and patios.
Edulis
A tiny restaurant with big flavour, Edulis has received many awards and accolades, including a Michelin star and being voted #1 Best New Restaurant in Canada by EnRoute Magazine.
This hidden gem on Niagara street offers an inspired and ever-changing menu full of seasonal ingredients. You will have to plan ahead as dinner bookings are sold out a month in advance. When you finally get the chance, you’ll find it was worth every minute of the wait. No tips are required at Edulis, and yet the service will speak for itself.
As you can see, Toronto has so much to offer people from all backgrounds and walks of life. It isn’t just the food, the festivals, or the restaurants. It’s the shopping, the convenience, the excitement, and above all, the sense of community.
If you want to know more about the neighbourhoods we serve, please reach out to us today. You can email ERICA@ERICAREDDY.COM or call 416.443.0300 for a free consultation.
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