From Innovative Italian to Delectable Desserts, Don’t Miss These Five New Toronto Hotspots
Toronto is a foodie’s dream. In a country where Tim Horton’s doughnuts and ketchup chips are the most well-known cuisine, Toronto stands out. The city is a multicultural hub, and that idea is expressed in its restaurants, leading to a creative, ever-changing culinary flavor. It is a trend that has brought some of the world’s best chefs north, from David Chang (who opened a Momofuku in 2012) to Jamie Oliver (who opened the first North American iteration of Jamie’s Italian here). While there are some incredible well-established restaurants, there are also new standouts opening up all the time. Check out five new Toronto eateries getting major attention.
Kojin
Built around a large wood grill and named after the Japanese god of fire,
Kojin is David Chang’s newest Toronto restaurant; however, you won’t find the kimchee and pork buns typical of Chang’s other restaurants here. Instead, the menu is the vision of head chef Paula Navarette and based on the cuisine of her native Colombia.
Momofuku Kōjin, 190 University Ave., 647-253-6227
Giulietta
Giulietta, Rob Rossi’s new Italian restaurant, is a revelation, as it marks a different direction for the chef. The cooking here is light and beautiful. Come for the bone-in pork chops, and stay for the pasta.
Giulietta, 972 College St., 416-964-0606
Donna's
Opened in the fall on Landsdowne by chefs Peter Jensen and Jed Smith (both formerly of Shoto) along with Jensen’s wife Ann Kim,
Donna’s mixes a little bit of weird, a little bit of improv, and a whole lot of talent to create one of Toronto’s best new restaurants. The simple interior allows the staff to focus on the food, and they knock it out of the park every time. Donna’s boasts a menu filled with classics as well as dessert to die for.
Donna’s, 827 Lansdowne Ave., 416-536-1414
Alobar
Alobar is Patrick Kriss’ new Yorktown location, and if his other restaurants Alo and Aloette are any indications, it’s going to thrive. The foie gras parfait, tuna belly tartare, and black tiger shrimp will all have you running back for more. Alobar is more than just food--the cocktails are on-point, too. Hand-chipped ice cubes, premium liquor, and one of the best wine lists in the city make Alobar an immediate destination.
Alobar, 57A-162 Cumberland St., 416-961-1222
Arthur’s Restaurant
Arthur’s Restaurant will have you mesmerized from the moment you walk through the doors. From the old-school playlist to the ceiling sculpture that hangs above it all, Arthur’s is a spectacle. Steven Salm, president of the Chase Hospitality group, named the restaurant after his father--an inspiration behind the restaurant’s dinner club-style menu. Oysters Rockefeller, matzo ball soup, and Dover-style fillet are just a few of Arthur’s standout dishes. Stop in for the food, and grab an annual membership, which will get you wine discounts and valet parking.
Arthur’s Restaurant, 12 St. Clair Ave. E., 647-348-7000
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