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The 10 Best Restaurants in Ontario
Ontario is a hotbed of culinary innovation and gastronomic greatness, and we’ve combed through the province to find the crème de la crème of its restaurant scene.
This isn’t about a quick bite at the corner dive anymore—it’s about top-tier chefs serving mind-blowingly good meals.
So, whether you’re a die-hard food adventurer or someone simply wanting to elevate their dining experience, buckle up and get ready to drool over delectable descriptions of these best restaurants in Ontario. Read on!
Lake House Restaurant
Website: http://lakehouserestaurant.com/
Address: 3100 N Service Rd, Vineland Station, ON L0R 2E0, Canada
Contact details: +1 905-562-6777
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Alright, you food-loving legends, it’s time to talk about the Lake House Restaurant that’s right on the edge of Lake Ontario. If there’s anything better than enjoying a plate of great food, it’s savouring it with a view that deserves a postcard.
The interior here is all gorgeous wood and warm lights! And with the lake as its backdrop, dining at the Lake House is like sitting in a beautiful, edible landscape painting.
The Lake House plays around with a lot of local and international ingredients, creating yummy dishes that keep you coming back for more. One moment you’re enjoying succulent steak, and the next you’re feasting on seafood.
Get ready to get your drinks on here as well since they boast an extensive wine selection!
| Local tip: Try to book early if you want a table by the window; the view is killer, especially during sunset. And don’t miss out on their house-made desserts; the cheesecake is legendary! |
Bar Isabel
Website: http://barisabel.com/
Address: 797 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1C7, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-532-2222
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 PM to 11 PM
Bar Isabel is a place known for its fun vibes, trendy craft cocktails, and, most importantly, its unforgettable Spanish cuisine.
The moment you walk in, you’ll be hit with the irresistible aromas of tapas, grilled seafood, roasted meats, and cheeses—it’s a food lover’s paradise!
They masterfully balance traditional Spanish flavours with a one-of-a-kind contemporary twist. Sorry to say, but this ain’t your grandma’s cooking!
Beyond the food, there’s the décor, and, oh boy, is it worth mentioning? The low light, vibrant colours, and traditional Spanish theme all blend together, creating a cosy atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends or that special one.
A warning though: you might end up spending more time here than you planned!
| Local tip: You absolutely have to try the seafood! The flavours are rich and absolutely out of this world! |
Lazy Daisy’s Cafe
Website: https://lazydaisyscafe.ca/?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb-website
Address: 1515 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4L 2A4, Canada
Contact details: +1 647-341-4070
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 8 AM to 3 PM
- Thursday to Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM, 4 PM to 8 PM
Starting off with the ambiance, Lazy Daisy’s packs a big punch for such a modest place. Though it’s not a palace, the cosy atmosphere here is, dare I say, priceless?
With its down-to-earth decor that oozes an endearing hominess (we’re talking comfy chairs and friendly grins), it’s easy to feel instantly cosy and ready to feast on the gastronomic delights served up.
Don’t just take my words at face value; explore Lazy Daisy’s menu yourself and watch as your scepticism transforms into high praise. Their culinary prowess lies in blending traditional Canadian flavours into innovative dishes that tantalise your taste buds.
Pancakes that easily melt in your mouth, scrambled eggs cooked to fluffy perfection, and a medley of sandwiches to wow the most particular gourmet
| Local tip: For those visiting over the weekend, ring ahead to reserve your spot—it can get pretty busy. Also, save some room for their homemade cookies; they’re something out of a dream! |
Buca Osteria & Bar
Website: http://buca.ca/
Address: 53 Scollard Street front entrance located via Yorkville Avenue through the Four Seasons Courtyard, Toronto, ON M5R 0A1, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-962-2822
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 5 PM to 10 PM
Alright, how about we talk Italian? No, seriously. Let me take you to an incredible Italian place right in the heart of Ontario—Buca Osteria & Bar. And no, we’re not talking about your regular fast-food pasta or pizza type!
Buca is where you’ll find authentic Italian cuisine that showcases the freshest of ingredients. Yeah, they like to keep it real and stick to the whole Italian thing of incorporating seasonal produce into their dishes.
If you fancy pasta, I guarantee you, they’ll serve you some of the best, served al dente. If charcuterie is your thing, you’re in luck, too!
As well as amazing food, Buca has this classy yet rustic decor that feels comfortably chic and authentically Italian, like you’ve just stepped into a fashionable trattoria in Rome. Those brick walls and high ceilings? Super charming and totally sets the mood!
| Local tip: The seafood dishes are to die for; their freshness and flavours are unbeatable! |
Canoe
Website: http://www.canoerestaurant.com/
Address: 66 Wellington St W 54th floor, Toronto, ON M5K 1H6, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-364-0054
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 11:45 AM to 11:30 PM
Alright, next on our culinary trip across Ontario, we’re heading over to the widely-acclaimed Canoe. This spot is really up there. Literally!
It’s perched on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, and boy, does it offer some breathtaking views of the city! Canoe prides itself on serving dishes inspired by Canada’s rich history and landscape.
If you’re someone who appreciates locally-sourced gourmet meals that pay homage to the country, Canoe would be your gastronomic paradise. The views and the food may steal the show, but the ambiance is a showstopper on its own.
But hey, a great restaurant isn’t just about the food and the views! The stellar service at Canoe is worth jotting down in your memory bank.
| Local tip: Try the ‘Tasting Menu’. It offers a well-rounded experience of what Canoe has to offer! |
Terra Restaurant
Website: http://www.terrarestaurant.ca/
Address: 8199 Yonge St, Thornhill, ON L3T 2C6, Canada
Contact details: +1 905-731-6161
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 5 PM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 5 PM to 10 PM
Let’s head out to Thornhill, home to one of Ontario’s best-kept secrets—Terra Restaurant. This gem has been serving up unforgettable meals since it first fired up its stoves back in 1995, and it’s made quite the name for itself.
Terra showcases a menu highlighting locally inspired cuisines, and they know a thing or two about making a good impression. Their delicious dishes will send your taste buds into overdrive, and the presentation? Yep, another superb!
But it’s not all about the fancy food! Terra’s setting? It’s downright charming. The place exudes a cosy, homely feeling while keeping things elegant with its unique combination of modern and rustic elements.
Let’s get real: You can’t put a price on a great dining experience, but at Terra, they make sure that you get your money’s worth. You know what they say: good food is a good mood, and Terra Restaurant is sure to put you in high spirits!
| Local tip: Definitely give their seafood a try; it’s scrumptious and cooked to perfection! |
DaiLo
Website: http://www.dailoto.com/
Address: 503 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1A5, Canada
Contact details: +1 647-341-8882
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 5 PM to 11 PM
DaiLo gets your taste buds buzzing with an exciting blend of Chinese flavours and French techniques. Hats off to Chef Nick Liu for his culinary genius!
Now, what’s up with DaiLo? I hear you ask. Well, picture this: Chinese-inspired dishes with a wicked cool twist.
This restaurant has made their menu accessible, no matter your past experience with Asian cuisine. All palate preferences have been considered, and vegetarians, you’ve not been forgotten!
The decor here is clean and simple, with stunning artwork scattered around, and the place is packed with good vibes. I mean, who wouldn’t love hanging out in a place that has a modern oriental mural on its wall and serves up some top-class grub?
| Local tip: Their Crispy Octopus Tacos are a must-try! |
George Restaurant
Website: http://www.georgeonqueen.com/
Address: 111C Queen St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1S2, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-863-6006
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 5:30 PM to 9 PM
George Restaurant, located in the bustling city of Ontario, has made its mark as a high-quality gastronomic oasis. To kick things off, let’s just admit that sometimes it’s the little details that quietly steal the show—and George has this down to fine art.
Upon entering, you’re enveloped in a space that boasts a sophisticated yet approachable design. But let’s get straight to the good stuff: the grub.
Imagine a spread that brings together everything from perfectly seared scallops to tender bison, and even a risotto!. At George, they’ve got this knack for whipping up Canadian classics and giving them a cheeky twist with flavours from around the globe.
But wait, there’s more! You can’t have an epic meal without a shout out to the crew that brings it all together. Some might think this is just the icing on the cake, but wait until they get a taste of the magic that George whips up!
| Local tip: Parking can get a tad tricky in the area, so arrive early or opt for a taxi. And for an added surprise, inquire about the multi-course tasting menu—it’s truly a gastronomic extravaganza! |
Bar Raval
Website: http://www.thisisbarraval.com/
Address: 505 College St, Toronto, ON M6J 2J3, Canada
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 1 AM
We’re dialling things down a notch and heading to an out-of-this-world Spanish tapas bar next—Bar Raval. This place is seriously something else. And their tapas? Absolutely top-tier!
Their dishes are simple yet full of flavour, showcasing fresh ingredients in a way that’ll make your taste buds dance Flamenco! These guys have done an amazing job of keeping things authentic while adding a little bit of that magical Bar Raval twist to the recipes.
But it’s not just about the grub! Walking into this joint, it’s like stepping into a modern Spanish art piece.
They’ve got this funky curved wooden bar, and the entire place is so uber-cool, you’ll want to snap a picture for your Instagram. It’s laid-back, it’s stylish, and it’s casual, just the way we Canadians like it!
| Local tip: Their cold tapas selection is absolutely legit, and whatever you do, don’t forget to try their exceptional cocktails. |
Scaramouche Restaurant
Website: http://www.scaramoucherestaurant.com/
Address: 1 Benvenuto Pl, Toronto, ON M4V 2L1, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-961-8011
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 5 PM to 9 PM
You’d be hard-pressed to find a more perfect spot for a fancy night out than Scaramouche Restaurant. This place has been around since 1980, and let’s just say they’ve got this fine dining thing down to a tee!
Starting with the food, Scaramouche proposes a culinary adventure that you don’t want to skip. Their menu is a perfect blend of classic and modern.
The dishes? Pure elegance on a plate, folks. It’s a bit like jazz; it has its roots in the classics, but it’s not afraid to improvise and play around with the notes a little.
But it isn’t just the food that’s got everyone talking; the ambience here is absolutely stellar. You’ve got dark wooden panels, plush seating, and soft mood lighting.
It’s comfortably swanky and has this intimate vibe that makes it feel like you’re dining at an elite club. Heck, if I could, I’d move in!
| Local tip: Don’t miss out on their panoramic view of the city; it’s absolutely breathtaking, and while you’re there, be sure to try their heavenly lobster bisque; it’s worth every penny. |
