Multiethnic, tasty and low cost cuisine: Toronto has a lot to offer even when it comes to food. Read the post and take note of the best clubs in town!
A city so multicultural that 911 is ready to answer in 150 different languages. Toronto is spoiled for choice when it comes to getting to know different cultures and, above all, to eat.
A multicultural cuisine
Canada, like the United States, does not have many traditional dishes and the ones it does not appeal to us Italians (we are used too well). Don't miss out though classic pancakes with maple syrup or Tim Horton's myriads of donuts (the equivalent of Starbucks, but much cheaper and spartan).
When you visit Toronto, however, you don't have to look for local cuisine: it is better to let yourself go from one table to another, moving from Japan to Mexico between lunch and dinner. And if you are homesick and you really want pizza, don't despair: the second community in Toronto, after the Chinese one, is that of Italians. I recommend the pizza of Pizzeria Mercanti and two other options that you find at the bottom of the article.
If Canada is already intriguing you: here's where to read 7 curiosities about this country.
In my three months in Toronto I tried dozens of coffee shop (not the ones in Amsterdam!) because I love American coffee, welcoming environments and working outside the home accompanied by chattering people or relaxing music. The first two are my favorite cafes, while the last two are ideal for lunch or dinner: the best ramen in town and a sort of fusion cuisine between Japanese and Mexican.
But not all. At the end of the article you will find more names of some of Toronto's best restaurants.
1. Fika Cafe: in the heart of Kensington Market
The word "fika" is used in Sweden to indicate the coffee break, usually accompanied by a dessert like a classic cinnamon bun (my favorites).
This cozy café in the heart of Kensington Market offers a multitude of pastries for breakfast or a snack, as well as sandwiches and salads, as well as vegetarian options. The peculiarity is the internal room, which wall is entirely covered with open books. There is also a small courtyard in the back with a hammock and tables. Obviously free wi-fi.
Address: 28 Kensington Ave
2. Quantum Coffee: on the edge of Chinatown
It's my favorite place in Toronto. A bright open space on the edge of Chinatown, precisely at the intersection of Spadina and King Street, offers a very simple but sophisticated drinks menu.
Try the "freshly brewed coffee" accompanied by one of the sweets available. My favorite? The Apple Butter Crumb Cake.
You can choose to sit on the counter at the entrance and look out, or proceed to the great room. But be careful, because there is a distinction between tables reserved for those with laptops and those who are passing through.
Address: 460 King St W
3. Ramen Isshin: the best in Toronto
They say it's the best ramen in Toronto (4.5 on TripAdvisor and 4.5 on Yelp) and while I haven't tried all the ramen in the city, I couldn't help but trust.
I've been here for lunch and it was very busy as it's quite a small venue. I recommend that you book if you already know you are going there, so as to avoid being left dry.
On the menu you will also find kobachi (small plates) as well as the famous ramen. The prices of the latter vary from around 11 to 16 dollars. I couldn't finish it because of how big and full the bowl was… But my mouth is watering just thinking about it.
Address: 421 College Street
4. Sushitto on the road
Here the situation becomes complicated. Why you will ask. Well, Sushitto is elusive, mysterious, almost impossible to find. This pickup truck changes locations continuously and the only way to find out is to follow them on Instagram (@sushittontheroad), but it's worth it because who doesn't want to eat burrito-sized maki?
The only flaw is that it closes its doors and retires to some garage during the winter. He deserves it, he always has been the Best Food Truck of 2016.
Address: changes every day!
Other noteworthy restaurants: Byblos (11 Duncan St); Northern Thai Kitchen (18 Duncan St); HotBlack Coffee (245 Queen St); Dark Horse Espresso Bar (215 Spadina Ave, 630 Queen St E, 125 John St); Libretto Pizzeria (221 Ossington Ave); Terroni (57A Adelaide St E).
