Best Food Spots to Try When Travelling to Toronto During the Holidays
Dreaming of a holiday getaway to Toronto? Besides the amazing sights and sounds, let’s talk about the REAL star of the show – the food! Toronto’s culinary scene is a delicious melting pot of flavours from around the world. But with so many options, where do you even start? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dig into the best food spots to try when travelling to Toronto during the holidays
Must-Visit Food Spots to Try When Traveling to Toronto During Holidays
Let’s take a closer look at some of the must-visit food spots that will make your holiday trip to Toronto truly unforgettable:
1. The Distillery District Christmas Market
This foodie spot is a magical European-style Christmas market with charming wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and festive music.
Here, you’ll find a delightful array of food stalls offering everything from warm, gooey raclette cheese to crispy churros dusted with powdered sugar. Sip on a steaming mug of mulled wine as you browse the handcrafted gifts and ornaments, or indulge in a hearty bowl of poutine, a Canadian classic topped with cheese curds and gravy.
The Distillery District Christmas Market is a must-visit for anyone seeking a festive and flavorful experience in Toronto during the holidays.
- Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Canada
- Perfect For: Festive atmosphere seekers, couples, families, those who love holiday treats and unique gifts
- Must-Visit: Cacao 70, Chimney Stax & Mill Street Brewery Beer Garden
2. St. Lawrence Market
If you’re a true food enthusiast, a visit to St. Lawrence Market is an absolute must. This historic market, housed in a stunning 19th-century building, is a treasure trove of culinary delights.
Wander through the aisles and discover a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and baked goods. Don’t miss the chance to try the legendary peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery, a Toronto institution. The succulent, juicy bacon on a soft bun is a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.
For a truly unique experience, head to the lower level of the market, where you’ll find a bustling food court filled with vendors offering everything from sushi to pierogies. Grab a seat and enjoy a delicious meal while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
- Address: 92 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3, Canada
- Perfect For: Food enthusiasts, those seeking authentic local flavors, and those who love exploring markets
- Must-Visit: Carousel Bakery, St. Urbain Bagel, Buster’s Sea Cove, Churrasco of St. Lawrence
3. Kensington Market
Kensington Market is a bohemian neighborhood known for its eclectic shops, vintage stores, and diverse culinary scene. Here, you can embark on a global gastronomic adventure, sampling flavors from around the world.
Start your day with a hearty Jamaican breakfast at Rasta Pasta, where you can savor dishes like ackee and saltfish or callaloo. For lunch, head to Seven Lives Tacos for some of the best fish tacos in the city. And for dinner, indulge in a steaming bowl of pho at Pho Hung, a local favorite.
Kensington Market is a feast for the senses, with colorful murals adorning the buildings and the sound of live music filling the air. It’s a place where you can wander aimlessly, discovering hidden gems and savoring the unique flavors of this vibrant neighborhood.
- Address: Kensington Market, Toronto, ON, Canada (No specific address as it’s a neighborhood)
- Perfect For: Adventurous eaters, those seeking diverse cuisines, and those who love exploring vibrant neighborhoods
- Must-Visit: Rasta Pasta, Seven Lives Tacos, Pho Hung, Fresco Bakery
4. Chinatown
Toronto’s Chinatown is a bustling hub of activity, offering a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of China. Here, you’ll find a plethora of restaurants serving everything from dim sum to Peking duck.
For a truly authentic dim sum experience, head to Rol San, where you can choose from a wide variety of steamed and fried dumplings, buns, and other delicacies. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, try the Peking duck at Peking Garden, a local institution known for its crispy skin and succulent meat.
Chinatown is also a great place to find unique ingredients and gifts for the foodie in your life. Browse the markets and shops for exotic spices, teas, and snacks.
- Address: Spadina Ave & Dundas St W, Toronto, ON, Canada (General area)
- Perfect For: Lovers of Chinese cuisine, those seeking authentic flavors, and those who enjoy bustling atmospheres
- Must-Visit: Rol San, Peking Garden, Mother’s Dumplings, Lee Garden
5. Little Italy
If you’re craving a taste of Italy, head to Little Italy, a charming neighborhood filled with authentic Italian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries.
Indulge in a classic pasta dish at Terroni, a local favorite known for its handmade pasta and flavorful sauces. For pizza lovers, Pizzeria Libretto is a must-visit. Their wood-fired pizzas, topped with fresh ingredients, are simply divine. And don’t forget to save room for dessert! Dolcezza offers a wide variety of gelato flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
During the holidays, Little Italy comes alive with festive decorations and twinkling lights. It’s a wonderful place to stroll, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy a delicious Italian meal.
- Address: College St & Clinton St, Toronto, ON, Canada (General area)
- Perfect For: Italian food lovers, those seeking a romantic atmosphere, and those who enjoy festive holiday decorations
- Must-Visit: Terroni, Pizzeria Libretto, Dolcezza, Bar Raval
Unique Holiday Dining Experiences for You To Try
While traditional holiday foods like turkey, stuffing, and Christmas cookies are readily available in Toronto, the city also offers a plethora of unique and exciting dining experiences during the festive season.
Festive Afternoon Tea
Many hotels and tea rooms offer special holiday-themed afternoon tea services, complete with festive treats like gingerbread scones and cranberry macarons. It’s a delightful way to spend an afternoon with friends or family.
Holiday-Inspired Cocktails
Bars and restaurants often create special holiday cocktails with seasonal flavors like cranberry, gingerbread, and eggnog. Sip on a festive concoction while enjoying the company of loved ones.
International Holiday Cuisine
Explore the diverse culinary landscape of Toronto by trying holiday dishes from different cultures. From latkes (potato pancakes) for Hanukkah to panettone (sweet bread) for Christmas, there’s a world of flavors to discover.
Tips for Finding Your Own Culinary Gems
While the food spots mentioned above are a great starting point, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover your own culinary gems in Toronto. Here are a few tips:
- Explore different neighborhoods – Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own unique food scene. Take some time to explore areas like Leslieville, The Annex, and Parkdale, where you’ll find hidden gems and local favorites.
- Check out food festivals and events – Toronto hosts a variety of food festivals throughout the year, including Winterlicious and Summerlicious. These events offer a great opportunity to sample dishes from some of the city’s top restaurants at a discounted price.
- Ask locals for recommendations – Talk to Torontonians and ask them about their favorite food spots. They’ll be happy to share their insider tips and hidden gems.
- Use online resources – Check out websites and apps like Hungry416, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and BlogTO for reviews and recommendations. You can also follow food bloggers and influencers on social media for inspiration.
Remember, the best food spots are often the ones you discover on your own. So don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path. Follow your instincts, and let your curiosity lead you to new and exciting culinary experiences. Happy holidays and bon appétit!
References:
