Cathy MerrittFor many people, including me, lunch is an important meal. It’s a break in the middle of a workday, and I can spend an hour just eating a delicious meal while chatting with friends, reading a good book, or watching something on Netflix.
Another reason I’ve grown to love lunchtime so much is that Toronto has so many restaurants specializing in different cuisines. I’m always motivated to check out a new spot, or when I’m craving something specific, I know exactly where to go.
If you don’t know where to go for lunch in Toronto, here’s a list of my favorites.
Miku Toronto
Address: 10 Bay St. #105
Operating Hours:
- Sunday and Monday—12 to 9 pm
- Tuesday to Thursday—11:30 am to 9 pm
- Friday and Saturday—12 to 10 pm
Contact Number: +16473477347
I admit that Miku Toronto captured my attention first because of its interior. It has an upscale contemporary design, with eye-catching fish illustrations on the walls. The bright lights also create an inviting atmosphere.
This restaurant became one of my go-to lunch spots because of its delicious food. The menu features Japanese dishes, and my favorite is the Miku Select, a set made up of 10 pieces of aburi nigiri (salmon sushi) and oshi (sushi pressed tightly into a container).
Another great option you might want to try is Chef’s Select, which lets the chef decide what dishes they’ll serve to you. With this option, you’ll be at the edge of your seat the entire time because you don’t know what to anticipate.
| Pro Tip: You can book this restaurant for a private dining event with your loved ones. Check this page for more information. |
Canoe
Address: 66 Wellington St W 54th Floor
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday—11:45 am to 11:30 pm
- Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Contact Number: +14163640054
Canoe is best known for specializing in contemporary Canadian cuisine. I like that the menu is diverse in flavors to reflect the country’s diverse landscape.
Plus, the chefs work closely with farmers and local suppliers, which is another good initiative.
For lunch, I like to order the barbecued half-hen, which is served with watercress persillade and crushed potatoes.
Steak frites is another great option. The 8-oz Guelph strip loin (which is also dry-aged for 35 days) is more than enough to satiate my hunger.
To wash everything down, order wine by the bottle or glass. The wine list features popular Canadian winemakers and products from highly regarded international vineyards.
| Pro Tips: Book a private dining event at Canoe. If your event is a wedding, there’s a page that goes into more detail about this specific package. This restaurant also offers catering services. |
Sansotei Ramen
Address: 179 Dundas St W
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday—11:30 am to 9 pm
- Sunday—11:30 am to 8:45 pm
Contact Number: +16477483833
Craving tonkotsu ramen? Then, I have the spot for you: Sansotei Ramen!
This restaurant takes inspiration from Japan’s Kyushu and Hokkaido regions, and they get their ingredients from both local and Japanese suppliers. Because of this, you can expect the dishes to be as authentic as possible.
My ultimate recommendation is the Tonkotsu Black, which has chashu (Japanese braised pork belly), black fungus, garlic oil, and egg. If you like a little heat, try the Spicy Tantan, which is topped with chili and bamboo shoots.
For your side dishes, I recommend gyoza (pan-fried pork dumplings), zangi (Hokkaido-style fried chicken), and gyudon (rice with shredded beef and caramelized onions).
| Pro Tip: Sometimes, the restaurant holds special promotions, such as discounts and “buy one, get one free.” To remain updated on any of these promotions, check their Instagram and Facebook pages. |
KŌST
Address: 80 Blue Jays Way 44th Floor
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday—7:30 am to 10 pm
- Thursday—7:30 am to 11 pm
- Friday and Saturday—7:30 am to 12 am
Contact Number: +14378005938
KŌST sits on the very top of the Bisha Hotel, which is about 44 stories high! Because of this, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful cityscape while eating your delicious food.
For lunch, I usually like to start with tuna tartare, then order the Canadian prime striploin for my main course. When I’m in the mood for something healthy, I opt for a roasted beet salad with lime vinaigrette or the seared Atlantic salmon with honey lemon glaze.
If you can afford to splurge a bit, I recommend trying the plate of oysters. Your order will be served with cucumber mignonette, citrus ponzu, and house hot sauce.
| Pro Tip: If you’re dining with friends and family, you can book a private dining experience. |
Richmond Station
Address: 1 Richmond St W
Operating Hours:
- Monday—4:30 to 10:30 pm
- Tuesday to Friday—11:30 am to 2:30 pm, 4:30 to 10:30 pm
- Saturday and Sunday—3:30 to 10:30 pm
Contact Number: +16477481444
If you’re in Toronto’s downtown core, check out Richmond Station. It’s a fancy restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
My favorite thing to order here is the fried chicken sandwich, which is glazed with a yuzu gastrique (it’s a sweet-and-sour sauce). Another recommendation is the braised Penokean Hills beef with soft polenta, roasted carrots, and mushroom ragoût.
A meal isn’t complete without a drink, so take your pick from the beverage menu. If you like cocktails, you should try the Queen of Toronto (Empress Gin, Chambord, pineapple, and lemon).
Wine is also available if you prefer something fancy.
| Pro Tip: Are you thinking about hosting a special event with a group? You can book this restaurant as a venue. |
Aloette Restaurant
Address: 163 Spadina Ave. 1st Floor
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday—5 to 10:30 pm
- Friday to Sunday—11 am to 3 pm, 5 to 10:30 pm
Contact Number: +14162603444
Aloette Restaurant has been recognized by the Michelin Guide. If that isn’t enough to convince you of its greatness, I don’t know what will.
This restaurant specializes in casual dining, so most of the dishes are cheeseburgers and sandwiches. My favorite is the Wagyu truffle burger because it’s savory perfection and filling.
I also really like the fried chicken with yuzu honey.
I have a sweet tooth, so I always like to end my meals with a dessert. Here, I usually order the lemon meringue pie. It balances sweet and tangy really well.
| Pro Tip: Ideally, you should book your reservation ahead of time, but it’s also possible to book a same-day reservation. You just have to get the DINR app. |
Banh Mi Boys
Address: 392 Queen St W
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday—11 am to 10 pm
- Sunday—11 am to 8 pm
Contact Number: +14163630588
If you’re a big fan of Vietnamese cuisine like me, you should check out Banh Mi Boys. This is a mom-and-pop shop, so the vibes are pretty chill and casual. It’s the perfect spot if you want a little bit of quiet during lunch.
As the name suggests, this restaurant’s specialty is banh mi (a sandwich made with a short baguette and a savory filling, usually meat). There’s a good variety of options here, and my favorite is the fried chicken banh mi.
Other dishes are also available here. Personally, I like ordering steamed bao (pulled pork is my favorite type) or taco (grilled chicken) as a side dish.
| Pro Tip: You can book their catering services for special events. |
Fran’s Restaurant
Address: 20 College St
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Contact Number: +14169239867
Fran’s Restaurant is a popular spot for late-night hangouts, but it’s also great for lunch. The food here is comforting and filling. Plus, it’s relatively affordable!
I personally like their all-day breakfast options (who says breakfast dishes can’t be for lunch?) because they’re hearty and filling. My go-to option is the steak and eggs, which comes with AAA NY striploin, two large eggs, home fries, and toast.
I’m also a big fan of the sandwiches, wraps, and paninis. Try Fran’s Famous Club. It’s jam-packed with grilled chicken and bacon, so you’ll feel full in no time.
| Pro Tip: Book any of the Fran’s Restaurant locations for your party! |
Chula Taberna Mexicana
Address: 1058 Gerrard St E
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday—5 to 10 pm
- Thursday and Sunday—12 to 10 pm
- Friday and Saturday—12 to 11 pm
Contact Number: +14169019859
If you’re craving Mexican cuisine, Chula Taberna Mexicana should satisfy your cravings just fine.
My go-to order here is the burrito because it’s stuffed with everything I want (meat, guacamole, pico de gallo, roasted corn, and more), so I’m full in no time. I also like the classic tacos that are topped with pickled green cabbage and pico de gallo.
Don’t miss out on the alcoholic beverages as well. If you’re a tequila fan, you’ll be delighted to see that there are over 70 kinds of tequila available here—from specialty mezcals to añejos.
If you like cocktails, try any of the signature cocktails.
Personally, I’m fond of the Mexican Caesar. It’s made with José Cuervo Tradicional, clamato juice, lime juice, and sweet chili habanero sauce, so it tastes sour, sweet, and spicy at the same time.
| Pro Tip: This restaurant often hosts weekend specials (usually discounts or unique drinks available for a limited time). |
CHEFS HALL
Address: 111 Richmond St W
Operating Hours:
- Monday and Tuesday—11 am to 9 pm
- Wednesday to Saturday—11 am to 10 pm
Contact Number: +14165879808
What I like about CHEFS HALL is that the vibe is extremely laid-back, so it’s a great spot for me and my friends to have a casual chit-chat during lunchtime. Another great thing about this restaurant is that there’s a good variety of dishes as well.
My favorite stall in the hall is Grateful Chicken, and my favorite order is the classic chicken sandwich. If I have extra money to splurge, I order the chicken and champagne combo.
Another stall I like is Aphrodite’s Taverna. This dining spot specializes in Greek cuisine.
The one dish I recommend here is the single (or double if you want) Greek plate, which has chicken souvlaki/spicy chicken/pork souvlaki and tzatziki.
| Pro Tip: You can book any of the venues in CHEFS HALL for an event. |
JOEY Eaton Center
Address: 1 Dundas St W
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—11 am to 1 am
Contact Number: +16473525639
JOEY is a beloved restaurant chain in Canada (it has several locations within the city alone), and the spot I keep coming back to is the one at Eaton Center. I just find the atmosphere immaculate—modern and elegant.
Of course, the food is great as well. I like to order the Mediterranean Bowl (it’s harissa grilled chicken with chickpeas, artichokes, jasmine rice, and more), but sometimes, when I have extra money, I go for the steak with lobster.
When I’m with friends, I order mini steak French dips and truffle parmesan fries to share with everyone.
| Pro Tip: JOEY is more than happy to help you prepare the party of your dreams. |
Amal Toronto
Address: 131 Bloor St W 2nd Floor
Operating Hours:
- Monday—5 to 10 pm
- Tuesday to Friday—11:30 am to 3 pm, 5 to 11 pm
- Saturday—10:30 am to 3 pm, 5 to 11 pm
- Sunday—10:30 am to 3 pm, 5 to 10 pm
Contact Number: +14165519929
Want a taste of the Mediterranean without booking a plane ticket? Then, you’ll like Amal Toronto!
This absolutely gorgeous and luxurious restaurant specializes in Lebanese cuisine. I really like the tabbouleh salad (it tastes zesty and refreshing).
For the main course, my go-to is the chicken shawarma with toum (garlic sauce) and pickles.
I can’t pass up on the dessert because I have a sweet tooth. The assorted baklava (a layered dessert made of filo pastry, chopped nuts, and syrup or honey) is a winner.
Another one I like is the kanafeh (spun pastry with cheese and soaked in sweet syrup).
| Pro Tip: If you want to book this restaurant for an event, contact them via phone. You can also email them at [email protected]. |
Le Sélect Bistro
Address: 432 Wellington St W
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday—11:30 am to 10 pm
- Friday—11:30 am to 10:30 pm
- Saturday—10:30 am to 10:30 pm
- Sunday—10:30 am to 9:30 pm
Contact Number: +14166266262
For people who love French cuisine, Le Sélect Bistro is the best place to go. This Parisian-inspired restaurant has been around for more than five decades, and in that time, it has garnered a loyal following.
For lunch, I like to order the omelet (eggs with fine herbs, frites, and a green salad) because it’s comforting.
Poulet rôti is another great dish to eat. It’s half-roast chicken with truffle honey and chicken jus, and it combines sweet and savory well.
The drink menu here is extensive. There are many options for wine, including champagne, but I’m fond of the cocktails.
My recommendation is The Last Monarch, which is made with 10-year Laphroaig scotch whiskey and Liqueur de Grandmont.
| Pro Tip: This restaurant is open to hosting any special events (weddings, birthdays, etc.). |
Rodney’s Oyster House
Address: 469 King St W
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday—12 to 10 pm
- Thursday—12 to 11 pm
- Friday and Saturday—12 pm to 12 am
Contact Number: +14163638105
If you’re a big fan of oysters, then I have the lunch spot for you: Rodney’s Oyster House. This restaurant has a dedicated menu just for oysters, and they’re sourced from different suppliers in the country!
I really like the pan-fried oysters, but you can have them raw if you want. Aside from the oysters, I’m fond of the seafood pasta and the lobster roll.
To wash everything down, order a bottle of wine (there are reds, whites, and bubbles here). There are also beer options if that’s what you prefer.
| Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a caterer for your event, you might want to consider Rodney’s Oyster House. |
The Old Spaghetti Factory
Address: 54 The Esplanade
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—12 to 10 pm
Contact Number: +14168649761
I’ve always believed that pasta is one of the best things to eat for lunch because it satisfies hunger in no time. If you believe the same thing, then you might want to check out The Old Spaghetti Factory.
Any of the signature pasta dishes are worth checking out. My personal favorite is the chicken alfredo with mushroom and mascarpone cheese ravioli, but I also really like the penne arrabbiata with sausage.
In addition to the pasta dishes, I like to order provolone sticks and chicken tenders as sides. For drinks, I usually go for a Shirley Temple or an Italian cream soda.
| Pro Tip: This restaurant sells gift cards. Get one for a friend or family member who loves spaghetti as much as you do. |
Café Boulud
Address: 60 Yorkville Ave
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday—7 to 11 am, 11:45 am to 2:30 pm, 5:30 to 10 pm
- Sunday—7 to 11 am, 11:30 am to 2:30 pm
Contact Number: +14169636000
Another popular restaurant you might like if you’re into French cuisine is Café Boulud. What I like about this restaurant, in particular, is that it has a seasonally changing menu, so you never know what to expect when coming here.
I usually start with a classic beef tartare (paired with a quail egg and toasted baguette), then order the duck confit with pomme purée. The duck confit is served with wild ramp pesto and fresh herbs salad, making for a very filling meal.
When I’m feeling extra fancy, I splurge on caviar. The order comes with traditional caviar accouterments, including potato blinis, shallots, chives, and crème fraîche.
| Pro Tip: Thinking about hosting your event in this restaurant? You might want to check this page before you book the reservation. |
Pizzeria Libretto
Address: 155 University Ave
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday—11:30 am to 10 pm
- Saturday—12 to 10 pm
- Sunday—5 to 10 pm
Contact Number: +14165510433
Whether you’re dining with friends or by yourself, pizza is always a good idea. It’s a satisfying dish (albeit a bit greasy), and with all the toppings, every bite is a flavor explosion.
Pizzeria Libretto is one of my go-to spots when I’m craving pizza.
My favorite flavor is the duck confit one. It has a white sauce base topped with duck confit, mozzarella, roasted bosc pear, and parmigiano-reggiano.
I also really like the pasta offerings here.
In particular, I’m fond of the spinach basil pesto gnocchi. It tastes savory and earthy, and it also has an interesting texture, thanks to the toasted pistachio.
| Pro Tip: This restaurant offers group dining services. |
House of Gourmet
Address: 484 Dundas St W
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday—10 am to 1 am
- Friday and Saturday—10 am to 2 am
Contact Number: +14162170167
House of Gourmet is one of my favorite Chinese restaurants, so I recommend you check it out if you’re craving Chinese cuisine.
I love ordering the deep-fried chicken and the Singapore-style fried chicken. When I’m in the mood for seafood, the stir-fried fresh lobster and shrimp with honey walnut are my favorite things to buy.
Of course, I can’t pass up on any of the fried rice options. The shrimp-fried rice is a classic, but I’m also a big fan of the pineapple minced beef rice.
| Pro Tip: Sometimes, this restaurant has special promotions like dishes available for a limited time and discounts. |
The Chase
Address: 10 Temperance St Fl 5
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday—11:30 am to 10:30 pm
- Saturday—5 to 11 pm
- Closed on Sunday
Contact Number: +16473487000
The Chase boasts a bright, relaxing vibe, which is why I find myself coming here for lunch often. Another thing I like about this restaurant is that the menu changes every season, so my dining experience is different every time.
The last time I visited, I ordered the Wagyu Coulotte (a 6-oz char-grilled snake river Wagyu, maitake mushrooms, fondant potatoes, and black shallot bordelaise), and I really liked it. If you see it on the menu, give it a try as well.
For dessert, I like to try any of the available cakes. Sometimes, there’s a baked Alaska, and I order it when I’m with a friend because it’s big enough for sharing.
| Pro Tip: If you’re interested in hosting a private event, you can book this restaurant as a venue. |
Volos Greek Cuisine
Address: 133 Richmond St W
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday—11:30 am to 2:30 pm, 5 to 9:30 pm
- Thursday and Friday—11:30 am to 2:30 pm, 5 to 10 pm
- Saturday—5 to 10 pm
- Closed on Sunday
Contact Number: +16477480990
I only got to Greek cuisine recently, and I have Volos to thank for that. I came here with my friends on a whim, and now I’m mad at my previous self for not coming here sooner.
During my lunch outing with friends, we ordered and really liked the freshly baked halibut with mussels, fennel, and cherry tomatoes in ouzo saffron broth. We also had braised lamb shank with creamy whipped potatoes, which I personally preferred.
I also tried a few desserts here. The saffron ice cream was an interesting one, and of course, the baklava was simply decadent.
| Pro Tip: This restaurant can host events with up to 32 guests. |
