Sunnys Chinese: High-Energy Homestyle Dining in Kensington Market
Hidden in Toronto’s vibrant Kensington Market, Sunnys Chinese draws a loyal crowd with bold, flavorful cooking. Find this hotspot by venturing down a seemingly dead-end hallway to a buzzing, packed room. Inside, groups gather around tables loaded with homestyle Chinese dishes inspired by Sichuan, Shaanxi, Guangdong, and Hong Kong cuisines.
The Sunnys Chinese Experience
Sunnys channels the energy of China’s vibrant dining cultures—from the fiery shaokao of Chengdu to the open-air food stalls of Hong Kong’s dai pai dongs. This isn’t your average take on Chinese cuisine; here, the kitchen pulls no punches when it comes to flavor. You’ll find smoky, spicy, crispy, and numbing sensations layered into every dish, with each bite offering a new sensory thrill. Chef David Schwartz and his team have masterfully crafted a menu that reflects both tradition and innovation.
A standout starter is the Husband and Wife Beef—thin slices of braised beef shank, tendon, and tripe tossed in chili oil and peanuts. This Sichuan classic combines chewiness, crunch, and a numbing heat that intensifies with every bite.
Next, try the crispy charred silver needle noodles or grilled chicken thigh, coated in cumin, chili, and pepper for a smoky kick. Each dish bursts with bold flavors, perfectly balanced and endlessly crave-worthy.
The Birth of Sunnys
What started as a pandemic pop-up during Toronto’s lockdowns quickly became an unexpected success. Originally meant as a temporary takeout-only concept, Sunnys Chinese was born out of the overwhelming demand for the team’s explosive flavors, so much so that it sold out for 11 consecutive months. Recognized by enRoute magazine as one of the best new restaurants for takeout, Sunnys’ popularity made it clear that it needed a permanent home.
Sunnys’ laid-back, lively atmosphere is a stark contrast to its more refined sibling, MIMI Chinese. While MIMI leans towards the American Cantonese steakhouse experience, Sunnys thrives on casual, home-style food—dishes that come sizzling out of the wok or grill and land straight onto your table.
The Perfect Sweet Ending
No meal at Sunnys is complete without trying their crispy Hong Kong French Toast. Drizzled with black sesame jam and oolong condensed milk, this indulgent dessert will satisfy even the most serious sweet tooth.
A Must-Visit for Food Lovers
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Chinese cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore new flavors, Sunnys Chinese offers an unforgettable dining experience. With its bold take on homestyle regional dishes, this Kensington Market favorite has earned its reputation as one of Toronto’s most exciting dining spots. Don’t miss out on the fiery flavors, high energy, and unforgettable dishes that make Sunnys Chinese a true standout in the city.
Location:
60 Kensington Ave., Toronto, M5T 2K1, Canada
Opening Hours:
- Sunday and Monday: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Saturday: 5 PM – 10:30 PM
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