Top 10 must-try dishes in Toronto

Toronto, often celebrated for its vibrant cultural diversity, offers a culinary landscape that reflects its cosmopolitan population. From cosy neighbourhood joints to high-end gourmet restaurants, the city is a haven for food lovers. Every time I visit the city, I feel absolutely spoiled for choice - from Caribbean cuisine to Canadian classics, there’s truly something for everyone. If you're planning to explore Toronto's food scene, here are the top 10 must-try dishes that capture the essence of this busy city.

1. Peameal bacon sandwich

Start your culinary adventure with a true Toronto classic: a peameal bacon sandwich from the St. Lawrence Market. This sandwich features succulent, cured peameal bacon, also known as ‘Canadian bacon’, piled high on a fresh bun. The crispy edges and tender centre create a perfect balance of flavours, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

2. Butter chicken roti

Experience a fusion of Indian and Caribbean flavours with a delicious butter chicken roti. This dish wraps tender chunks of chicken cooked in a rich, creamy butter chicken sauce inside a soft, flaky roti. The blend of spices and textures offers a unique and satisfying meal that's perfect for any food enthusiast. 

3. Dim sum

No trip to Toronto is complete without indulging in dim sum. Throughout downtown, you’ll discover a plethora of restaurants offering an exquisite dim sum experience. From delicate shrimp dumplings to savoury pork buns, each dish is meticulously crafted to provide a taste of authentic Cantonese cuisine.

4. Jerk chicken

Toronto's Caribbean community brings vibrant flavours to the city's food scene, and the jerk chicken on offer is a testament to this. Jerk chicken, marinated in a blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection, is a must-try. Served with rice and peas, this dish delivers a burst of flavour with every bite.

5. Poutine

Poutine, a beloved Canadian dish, is a must-try in Toronto. Throughout the city, you’ll find an array of poutine variations, but the classic remains a favourite. I recommend trying this for your first time - crispy fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and rich gravy make for a delicious and indulgent snack or meal.

6. Sushi pizza

For something a little different, experience a delightful fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisines with a sushi pizza at one of Toronto’s Japanese restaurants. Said to hail from the city, this innovative dish features a crispy rice patty topped with fresh sushi ingredients such as salmon, avocado, and spicy mayo. 

7. Bagels

Toronto’s bagel scene is fiercely competitive, and for good reason. These bagels are uniquely soft and fluffy, unlike the denser New York-style bagels. Enjoy them plain or with a variety of spreads, and you’ll understand why they have been such a local favourite for decades.

8. Roti 

For a taste of Trinidadian cuisine, you need to try a proper roti while in Toronto. Roti is often filled with options like curried goat, chicken, or chickpeas, and is a hearty and flavorful dish. The perfectly spiced fillings and soft, warm roti make this a beloved comfort food in Toronto.

9. Pho

Toronto’s Vietnamese food scene is thriving, and so a good pho is a standout. A fragrant and savoury noodle soup, it’s the perfect comfort food. With tender slices of beef, fresh herbs, and a rich, aromatic broth, it’s a must-try for anyone exploring Toronto’s diverse cuisine.

10. Oysters

You can’t visit Toronto without trying fresh oysters. The city is well known for serving up a wide selection of oysters from both the east and west coasts, offering a luxurious and refreshing dining experience. Pair your oysters with a glass of wine or champagne for a perfect taste of Toronto.

Toronto’s culinary scene is a true reflection of its multicultural population, offering a blend of flavours and dishes that cater to every palate. From iconic Canadian classics to innovative fusion dishes, the city’s food offerings are as diverse as its people. To truly immerse yourself in the city's food scene, consider joining a food tour. Our expertly curated food tour provides an insider’s look at Toronto’s best eateries, ensuring you don’t miss any hidden gems. Book your tour today and let your taste buds lead the way!