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Top 10 Places for Tapas in Toronto
Ready to embark on a flavour-filled adventure through Toronto’s tapas scene? We’re talking small bites with big taste.
From cozy corners to buzzing hotspots, these places turn every meal into a fiesta of flavours. Join us for a culinary journey, exploring Toronto’s tapas treasures one delicious bite at a time!
Flor 2 Tapas
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Address: 722 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1C4
Contact details: +1 416-516-2539
Opening hours: Tuesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Friday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Check out Flor 2 Tapas in Little Italy – it’s this cool spot in the basement of the Axis Club. The menu’s got it all, from octopus tartare to tempting piri piri marinated chicken sliders and beef sliders with caramelized onions and manchego.
And if you’re feeling a bit hungry, they’ve got you covered with options like picanha steak and pan-seared branzino. Now, let’s talk about drinks – you’ve got the usual suspects like beer, wine, and spirits, but the real gems here are the cocktails.
Classics like the Sidecar or Negroni are making waves, and if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, the Bailey’s Espresso Martini is dangerously good. Flor 2 Tapas isn’t just a place; it’s a hidden gem for a laid-back tapas adventure with killer cocktails.
Pro tip:
- Just a heads-up: they’re all about private events at Flor 2 Tapas. They’ll set you up with a chef, ready to craft a menu of your dreams for up to 70 people. And if you’re feeling the vibe, they can kick it up a notch – think DJ and full club mode, perfect for up to 100 party animals.
Bar Raval
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Address: 505 College St, Toronto, ON M6J 2J3
Contact details: [email protected]
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Food enthusiasts in Toronto who know what’s up are about snagging a spot at Bar Raval. It’s this cozy and lively joint that has the town talking, especially for its stellar tapas and pintxos.
Now, heads up – it’s a tapas and pintxos kind of vibe, so get ready to order up a storm and share the goodness. You can’t miss the house-smoked mussels with chili and fennel – seriously addictive!
By the way, you’ve gotta dive into this must-try pancetta with rhubarb at Bar Raval. And if you’re feeling the classics, no worries – they’ve got your back with plates of top-notch manchego and Serrano ham.
Pro tips:
- Just so you know, getting a table might take a bit because they don’t do reservations. So, if you’re thinking of swinging by for a business dinner, make sure you’re cool with it lasting a while.
Patria
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Address: 478 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1L7
Contact details: +1 416-367-0505
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Step into Patria, where they’ve mastered the art of authentic Spanish cuisine, bringing flavours straight from the motherland. Imagine daily fresh fish, octopus, and shrimp – a seafood fiesta that pairs perfectly with their extensive collection of vino, cócteles, and cerveza.
The craft meats take a charcoal journey to perfection, and let’s not forget the must-try paella collection. And the crowd-pleaser Datiles ($16.00) – dates wrapped in bacon and Manchego cheese, marinated in a sherry reduction is a sweet and salty perfection!
Plus, their drinking game is strong. They’ve put their own spin on traditional cocktails, giving you a taste of Spain right in the heart of Toronto.
Pro tips:
- Just a heads-up, the menu can be a bit on the pricey side, especially considering the portion sizes. You’re probably looking at around $75 per person.
Bar Isabel
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Address: 797 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1C7
Contact details: +1 416-532-2222
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Saturday to Sunday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Picture this: a spot in Little Italy that transports you straight to Spain. It’s got that sultry vibe and dishes up some seriously traditional eats for its eager crowd.
While the mains might tempt you, trust me, go all-in on the gossamer slices of the “world’s best jamon,” croquetas, pan con tomate, and other classic tapas – satisfaction guaranteed. And the vibe inside is like an old European bistro meets a hint of speakeasy charm.
Oh, and the jazz soundtrack is cranked up to the perfect volume. It’s a sensory journey you won’t want to miss!
Pro tips:
- They’re cool with dietary needs, and most dishes go gluten and dairy-free, and even vegan. Feel free to call them for more details to help you sort it out.
- Just a heads-up: if you’re thinking of bringing your cake, there’s a little thing to know – they charge a cutting fee of $6 per person.
- You can dive into their tasting menus any day without the need to pre-order by chatting with your server when you’re there. Prices range from $75 to $125 per person.
Bar Chica
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Address: 75 Portland St, Toronto, ON M5V 2M9
Contact details: +1 416-479-9779
Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM; Thursday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Sunday: 10:30 AM – 1:00 AM
Tucked away in plain sight at 75 Portland Street, Chica is like a hidden gem with windows all decked out for that extra dash of privacy. Imagine it as a nod to those secret laneway tapas bars in Barcelona – old-world Spanish charm meets modern flair—a playful and seductive vibe.
Here’s the scoop: they’re all about shaking up the tapas scene, inviting guests to dive into elevated sharing plates paired with craft cocktails and a hefty list of Spanish wines and sherries. Whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a late-night recharge, Chica’s got you covered.
Keep an eye out for standouts like patatas bravas and shortbread tarts filled with duck liver parfait and sherry gelee – they’re the real stars!
Pro tip:
- Dive into the unlimited tapas brunch plates with bottomless Sangria – choose red, white, or sparkling, or sip on all three. It’s $55 for the full brunch experience with coffee or tea, or you can go for $45 with bottomless Sangria.
Tapas at Embrujo
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Address: 97 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1N2
Contact details: +1 647-705-7880
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
If you’re craving an authentic taste of Spain in Toronto, Tapas at Embrujo is your go-to spot. Since 1972, they’ve been dishing out mouthwatering Spanish cuisine, bringing nearly 50 years of flavorful experience.
Nestled on Danforth Avenue, this award-winning gem captures the true essence of Spanish cuisine. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a fun hangout with friends, Tapas at Embrujo guarantees to leave a lasting impression.
Their menu boasts classics like tortilla de patatas, Gambas al ajillo, and paella. And here’s the kicker – they hold weekly traditional Spanish Flamenco entertainment straight from Spain, turning your meal into a full-on Spanish experience.
Pro tips:
- On Flamenco nights, there’s a $5 per person show fee, and you need to make a minimum food purchase of $20 per person. If you’re catching the show, aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before it kicks off for your seating.
The Carbon Bar
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Address: 99 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1S1
Contact details: +1 416-947-7000
Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Thursday to Saturday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
If you’re after a tapas-inspired menu with a twist, head over to The Carbon Bar. This spot brings an eclectic vibe with a rock ‘n’ roll feel, serving up Southern-inspired bites that break the mould – think K.F.C. (Korean fried cauliflower) and chorizo-stuffed squid.
Even though the dishes are indulgent, the meat comes from local Cumbrae Farms. While The Carbon Bar is all about barbecue, it’s an upscale joint, so the prices match the experience.
Oh, and don’t miss their theme-fitting burger, topped with a hefty slice of smoky brisket, American cheese, charred and pickled chilli peppers, lettuce, pickles, and burnt onion aioli.
Pro tip:
- If you want more privacy, the Green Room upstairs has a sound barrier and a balcony. The Chef’s table offers a semi-private view of culinary magic, and the lounge with a walk-up bar is separate, ensuring privacy with velvet ropes.
Madrina Bar y Tapas
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Address: 2 Trinity St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4
Contact details: +1 416-548-8055
Opening hours: Monday to Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Wednesday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Nestled in the historic heart of Distillery District’s main square, Madrina seamlessly blends the old and the new, inhabiting a century-old Victorian building once home to Tappo Wine Bar. Exuding true Catalan charm, the interior effortlessly combines whimsy with class.
Here at this elegant Distillery District gem, Executive Chef Ramon Simarro weaves his Spanish heritage with seasonal ingredients, crafting whimsical twists on classic tapas. Take, for instance, the crispy patatas bravas adorned with dabs of sriracha sauce and wasabi aioli.
And to complete the experience, their drinks menu boasts over 70 gins and an impressive array of imported wines, perfectly complementing the traditions and creative flair of their culinary offerings. It’s a delightful fusion of history and innovation!
Pro tips:
- Madrina Bar y Tapas usually has plenty of reservation slots available, even as late as a day in advance. However, an early booking might secure you a better timeslot.
Campo
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Address: 244 Jane St, Toronto, ON M6S 3Z1
Contact details: +1 647-346-2267
Opening hours: Wednesday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Sunday: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
At Campo, you’ll find delightful lobster salads, mushrooms, and polenta. Be sure not to miss the heavenly tiramisu, pudding, and cheesecakes.
It’s a paradise for wine lovers, too. Campo serves up simple, rustic, and hand-made meals using locally and seasonally sourced ingredients.
With an Italian and Spanish-inspired menu, every course is a burst of flavour. And don’t even get us started on their amazing cocktail and wine lists!
Pro tips:
- Campo is a hot spot, so consider getting there early before it fills up!
- They only accept Debit, INTERAC e-Transfer, and Cash, so plan accordingly.
Casa Paco
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Address: 50c Clinton St, Toronto, ON M6G 2Y3
Contact details: +1 416-533-4488
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 6:00 PM – 11:30 PM; Sunday: 3:00 PM – 8:00 AM
Step into Casa Paco, a delightful spot in Little Italy dishing out Spanish- and Italian-influenced goodness, complete with crafted zero-proof cocktails. If you’re a paella enthusiast, circle Sundays on your calendar for a visit.
Beyond their regular menu, their Sundays feature a special “fancy” paella, which includes lobster, runner beans, and saffron aioli for a tempting $45. Dive into an exquisite experience with Casa Paco’s well-priced Paella Sunday menu.
Lastly, the dishes may look unassuming, but take a bite of the grilled artichokes escalivada, bruleed chicken liver parfait, or piquillo peppers finished with pil-pil, and you’ll realize that appearances can be deceiving.
Pro tip:
- If you’re upping your bread game, go for the extras! They’ve got fantastic add-ons like the fire-roasted Piquillo Peppers.
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on Toronto’s tapas treasures – go ahead and embark on a flavour-filled journey. Whether you’re craving the classics or daring culinary twists, these spots have you covered.
So, gather your crew, savour those shared plates, and let Toronto’s tapas scene treat your taste buds to a fiesta!
