Toronto’s Top 10 : Restaurants


  1. Colborne Lane

    This
    modern, post-industrial restaurant is a mecca for lovers of molecular
    gastronomy, and Claudio Aprile is Toronto’s most proficient and
    enigmatic culinary maestro. His tasting menu, bursting with delicious
    surprises, is a must. Both Food & Wine Magazine and Condé Nast Traveler voted Colborne Lane as one of the most exciting new restaurants in the world.

    • 45 Colborne St

    • 416 368 9009

  2. The Fifth

    This
    restaurant styles itself as a club (and yes, non-members do pay
    slightly more); the freight-elevator ride to the fifth floor loft only
    adds to the exclusive feel of the place. A prix fixe menu favors French classics such as foie gras,
    duck breast, and langoustine. In winter, candles, fireplace, and
    couches make things lavishly cozy. In summer, try for a table on the
    rooftop terrace.

    • 225 Richmond St W

    • 416 979 3005

  3. Canoe

    Stellar
    views from the 54th floor of the Toronto Dominion Bank Tower make this
    one of the most enchanting rooms in the city. Lunchtime business crowds
    may close deals over lobster clubhouse sandwiches on brioche, but the
    evening ambience is decidedly more romantic. Menu mainstays include
    quintessentially Canadian caribou and bison .




    Canoe

  4. Starfish

    This
    low-key, sophisticated restaurant specializes in fish and seafood,
    particularly oysters – almost 20 varieties of them, with fresh French
    oysters on Thursdays. Preparations such as lobster bisque give a nod to
    Gallic cooking, with its classically complex flavors. Save room for
    dessert, all of which are excellent. The reasonably priced wine list is
    mainly French .




    Starfish’s catch of the day

  5. Senses

    Presentation
    is at its artful best at this exquisite restaurant, where beauty
    matches flavor to titillate all the senses. Chef Claudio Aprile’s
    tasting menu mixes Asian, Latin, and French elements to delightful
    effect, with many vegetarian-friendly choices. Scrumptious desserts.

    • 328 Wellington St W

    • 416 935 0400




    Senses

  6. Chiado

    Dine
    on the freshest fish and seafood to be had in the city, flown in from
    the world’s wharfs daily and transformed into the most luxurious of
    Portuguese fare. The wine list is replete with unusual offerings which
    the waitstaff are expert at elucidating and pairing with dishes. Try
    wines by the glass at the tapas-style wine bar, Senhor Antonio, in the
    restaurant’s cozy annex addition, where cheaper prices mean some of the
    best value in town.

    • 864 College St

    • 416 538 1910




    Chiado

  7. Sushi Kaji

    Masterful
    chef Mitsuhiro Kaji creates the city’s premiere Japanese cuisine at
    this farwestend restaurant. There are two private rooms, but better to
    perch at the eight-seat sushi bar to enjoy the food-as-theater
    experience. Premium sakes are the perfect accompaniment to excellent –
    and generously portioned – sushi, sashimi, and creative cooked offerings .

  8. Lai Wah Heen

    With
    exceptional Cantonese cuisine, this elegant two-level restaurant in the
    Metropolitan Hotel redefines and updates classic Chinese fare. Haute
    details include silver chopstick rests and starched linens on the round
    tables, which are suitable for large groups and conducive to sharing
    (smaller tables also available). Sunday dim sum is particularly popular.

    • 108 Chestnut St

    • 416 977 9899

  9. Noce

    This
    intimate restaurant serves marvelous Italian food, delivered with
    welcoming, friendly service. The homemade pasta specials are always
    superb, as are grilled and roasted meats. The summer patio is great for
    al fresco dining.

    • 875 Queen St W

    • 416 504 3463

  10. Ultra Supper Club

    This
    elegantly appointed eatery strikes a fashionable balance between
    restaurant and nightclub. Chef Chris Zielinski’s ambitious menu places
    emphasis on seasonality and originality. Enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop
    terrace in summer.

    • 314 Queen St W

    • 416 263 0330