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Toronto food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Toronto.
What to eat in Toronto
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Peameal Bacon Sandwich
A thick, unsmoked pork loin rolled in cornmeal, grilled and served on a soft bun. It's a surprisingly simple but deeply satisfying Toronto staple.
Jerk Chicken
Marinated in a fiery blend of scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, and thyme, then slow-cooked over pimento wood. The smoky, spicy aroma is irresistible.
Butter Chicken Poutine
A fusion masterpiece combining rich, creamy butter chicken sauce and tender chicken pieces over crispy fries and squeaky cheese curds. It's a decadent Canadian-Indian mashup.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with various meats (like grilled pork or pâté), pickled vegetables, cilantro, and chili. Toronto's Vietnamese community makes some of the best.
Khao Soi
A rich, coconut-based curry noodle soup from Northern Thailand, often served with chicken or beef and topped with crispy noodles. The complex flavors are addictive.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Bohemian, eclectic, and vibrant street food scene with global influences.
Historic indoor market with artisanal producers and diverse food stalls.
Aromatic and colorful street filled with authentic South Asian eateries.
Bustling and authentic, offering everything from dim sum to bubble tea.
Dietary notes
Toronto is very accommodating for dietary restrictions. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, especially in Kensington Market and areas with strong South Asian and East Asian influences. Gluten-free choices are also increasingly common, though cross-contamination can be a concern in busy kitchens.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars, generally 15-20% of the pre-tax bill.
- •Debit and credit cards are widely accepted; carrying cash is usually not necessary.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- •While there's no strict dress code, casual is generally acceptable for most dining.
- •Dinner is typically eaten between 6 PM and 8 PM.
Plan the rest of your Toronto trip
Food guides elsewhere