Iconic Foods You Should Try in Toronto
Canada’s largest city, Toronto, is one of the most diverse places in the world, and that diversity shows in the foods in Toronto. With influences from every corner of the globe, the city has built a reputation for excellent cuisine and a vibrant food scene. As a result, it’s easy to find something new and exciting on every corner. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most iconic foods in Toronto that are worth trying, whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another bite. If you’re traveling to Toronto, or anywhere else, you need a reliable esim to share your gastronomic experiences with your friends. Check out the plans for Canada by eSim Plus.
Best Foods you should try in Toronto
Peameal Bacon Sandwich
The main ingredient of this dish is bacon, also known as “Canadian bacon”. It is made from pork that is rolled in flour and then cooked until it becomes golden brown. Bacon is usually served on a bun, with mustard or other seasonings on top. This dish originated in Canada in the 19th century, when pigs were first bred in Ontario. The term “peameal” refers to the use of cornmeal to roll the bacon for storage purposes. This sandwich has become so iconic in Toronto thanks to numerous street stalls and eateries that serve it.
- Carousel Bakery
- Price: $8 – $12
- Website: Carousel Bakery
- Phone: (416) 363-4247
- Address: 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1M6
Butter Tart
This is a pie with a pastry crust filled with a sweet mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs. Sometimes, nuts or raisins are also added to the filling. The butter tart is considered one of the first Canadian desserts, originating from the 19th century. Its recipe was recorded in cookbooks and, since then, this treat has become a symbol of Canadian cuisine.
- The Maid’s Cottage
- Website: The Maid’s Cottage
- Phone: (905) 954-0202
- Address: 223 Main St S, Newmarket, ON L3Y 3Y9
- Price: $4 – $6 each
Ketchup Chips
These are potato chips seasoned with ketchup-inspired spices, offering a mix of sweet, tangy, and salty flavors. Unlike regular chips, their bold taste has made them a staple in Canadian snacking culture. First introduced in the 1970s, ketchup chips quickly caught on with locals. Since then, they’ve remained popular across generations. While they’re available in most grocery stores, some places add creative spins to the flavor, making the snack even more appealing to curious palates.
- President’s Choice Loads of Ketchup Chips
- Website: Rapid Express Delivery
- Address: Available at major grocery stores like Loblaws and No Frills across Toronto
- Price: $3 – $5 per bag
Poutine
The dish consists of French fries topped with cheese (usually cottage cheese) and gravy (usually made from meat). Sometimes additional ingredients such as mushrooms or meat are added. Poutine was created in Quebec in the 1950s and has since gained popularity throughout Canada. This dish is often associated with comfort food and is a favorite among locals.
- Smoke’s Poutinerie
- Website: Smoke’s Poutinerie
- Phone: (416) 979-9497
- Address: 218 Adelaide St W, Toronto, ON M5H 1W7
- Price: $15+
Bannock
This simple bread is made from flour, water, salt, and baking powder. Depending on how it’s prepared, it might be baked in an oven, grilled over a flame, or even fried in a pan for a crispier texture. As a result, it’s highly versatile and easy to adapt to different cooking methods. Because of its simplicity, it became a widely used staple in different regions. Bannock has roots in Indigenous communities across Canada and was later adopted by European settlers. As a result, it carries both historical and cultural meaning. Today, it is still appreciated for its versatility. Moreover, it continues to hold cultural value and remains an important part of food traditions in many Indigenous communities.
- Tea N Bannock
- Website: Tea N Bannock
- Phone: (416) 220-2915
- Address: 1294 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1Y7
- Price: $2.50 – $17.50
Toronto’s food scene is a true reflection of its people—varied, rooted in history, and constantly evolving. These dishes represent more than just meals. They carry local culture, stories, and traditions. Whether you’re grabbing a quick sandwich at the market or sitting down for a comforting plate of poutine, you’re tasting a slice of the city itself. Hungry for more? Check out our blog on “10+ Best Restaurants for Easter Brunch in Toronto“ for even more great local eats.
More…
