Toronto boasts a vibrant fine dining landscape that showcases culinary excellence and diverse flavours. The city’s upscale restaurant scene combines international influences with local Canadian ingredients to create unique dining experiences.
Fine dining establishments in Toronto range from elegant steakhouses to sophisticated seafood restaurants. Many are concentrated in the Financial District and downtown core, making them popular for business dinners and special occasions.
The city proudly hosts several MICHELIN-recognized restaurants, a testament to Toronto’s growing reputation as a world-class culinary destination. These include acclaimed spots like Restaurant 20 Victoria, Canoe, and George.
Toronto’s fine dining scene reflects its multicultural character. You’ll find upscale restaurants specializing in French, Italian, Japanese, and fusion cuisines. Many chefs incorporate Canadian ingredients while drawing inspiration from global cooking traditions.
Popular establishments like Casa Madera, Black + Blue, and Scaramouche consistently receive high ratings from diners. The Financial District features notable spots like LOUIX LOUIS, Estiatorio Milos, and The Chase.
Most fine dining restaurants in Toronto emphasize seasonal ingredients, artistic presentation, and impeccable service. Reservations are typically recommended, especially for weekend evenings and special occasions.
Top Fine Dining Restaurants in Toronto
Toronto boasts an impressive lineup of fine dining establishments that combine exquisite cuisine with exceptional service. These restaurants represent the pinnacle of culinary excellence in the city, each with its own unique approach to haute cuisine.
Scaramouche
Scaramouche stands as one of Toronto’s most enduring fine dining destinations, having delighted guests for over four decades. Located in an elegant midtown setting, it offers spectacular city views alongside impeccable French-inspired cuisine.
The restaurant is divided into two distinct dining experiences: the main Dining Room and the more casual Pasta Bar. Both showcase Chef Keith Froggett’s commitment to seasonal ingredients and refined technique.
Signature dishes include the coconut cream pie, which has achieved legendary status among Toronto dessert lovers. The menu changes seasonally but always features pristine seafood, premium meats, and locally-sourced produce.
Service at Scaramouche strikes the perfect balance between professional and warm. Their extensive wine list complements the sophisticated food perfectly.
Alo
Alo represents the pinnacle of contemporary fine dining in Toronto. This French-Canadian establishment consistently ranks among Canada’s best restaurants and has earned international recognition.
Chef Patrick Kriss leads this tasting menu-only concept with precision and creativity. Located on the third floor of a heritage building at Queen and Spadina, Alo offers an intimate dining room with a sophisticated atmosphere.
The tasting menu typically features 8-10 courses that showcase seasonal ingredients through modern French techniques. Each dish demonstrates meticulous attention to detail and artistic presentation.
Alo’s beverage program deserves special mention, with wine pairings that enhance each course perfectly. Their cocktail program is equally impressive, featuring both classics and innovative creations.
Reservations are notoriously difficult to secure and must be made well in advance through their online booking system.
Canoe
Perched on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, Canoe offers a uniquely Canadian dining experience with breathtaking views of Toronto’s skyline and Lake Ontario.
The restaurant celebrates Canadian cuisine by showcasing ingredients from across the country. Executive Chef Ron McKinlay creates dishes that honour Canada’s diverse culinary heritage while incorporating modern techniques.
Canoe’s menu changes seasonally but might include items like Alberta beef, Quebec foie gras, or Fogo Island cod. Their commitment to Canadian products extends to their beverage program, which features Canadian wines, craft beers, and spirits.
The dining room’s design reflects Canadian landscapes through natural materials and earthy tones. Large windows ensure the spectacular view remains a central feature of the dining experience.
Canoe is particularly popular for business lunches and special occasion dinners.
George
George offers one of Toronto’s most refined dining experiences in a historic space on Queen Street East. Chef Lorenzo Loseto’s contemporary approach to cuisine has earned the restaurant numerous accolades.
Diners can choose between à la carte options or tasting menus of varying lengths. Each dish showcases seasonal ingredients combined in creative ways that surprise and delight the palate.
The restaurant’s elegant interior features white tablecloths, well-spaced tables, and modern artwork. This creates a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere for enjoying the culinary artistry.
George’s service team delivers attentive, knowledgeable assistance without being intrusive. Their sommelier provides thoughtful wine pairings that complement the complex flavours of each dish.
The restaurant also offers a beautiful patio during warmer months, providing a serene urban oasis for outdoor dining.
Edulis
Edulis offers a uniquely intimate fine dining experience focused on seasonal ingredients and rustic European influences. This small, husband-and-wife-operated restaurant on Niagara Street has developed a devoted following.
Chefs Michael Caballo and Tobey Nemeth serve a constantly changing tasting menu highlighting the best available products. Wild mushrooms, seafood, and game often feature prominently, reflecting the restaurant’s name (Latin for “edible”).
The cozy dining room seats only about 30 guests, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a dinner party than a restaurant. Vintage touches and personal artefacts contribute to the homey ambiance.
Unlike many fine dining establishments, Edulis maintains a warm, unpretentious approach to service. Staff demonstrate deep knowledge of the food and wine without formality.
Their Sunday lunch is particularly special, offering a more relaxed fine dining option in the city.
Cuisine Specialties and Menus
Toronto’s fine dining scene offers exceptional culinary diversity with chefs creating masterful dishes that highlight both innovation and tradition. Each restaurant brings its unique approach to high-end dining through specialized techniques and carefully sourced ingredients.
Contemporary Canadian
Toronto’s top restaurants proudly showcase Contemporary Canadian cuisine with modern interpretations of classic dishes. Canoe stands as a pioneer in this category, offering sophisticated dishes that celebrate Canada’s diverse regional ingredients and cultural heritage.
The restaurant presents plates featuring indigenous ingredients like pine, birch, and foraged mushrooms alongside premium Canadian proteins. Their menu often includes creative preparations of regional specialties like Quebec foie gras and Atlantic seafood.
Restaurant 20 Victoria represents the newer generation of Canadian fine dining, focusing on simplicity and exceptional ingredients. The chef’s approach emphasizes clean flavours and respects the integrity of local ingredients.
Many Contemporary Canadian restaurants change their menus seasonally, reflecting the country’s distinct growing cycles and regional specialties.
French Gastronomy
Scaramouche has long been considered one of Toronto’s premier French dining destinations, offering timeless elegance and exceptional execution of French culinary techniques. Their lobster bisque and coconut cream pie have become iconic Toronto dishes.
Lucie, a MICHELIN-recognized French restaurant, presents more contemporary interpretations of French classics. Their menu features refined dishes like duck confit and coq au vin prepared with modern techniques while respecting traditional flavours.
French gastronomy in Toronto emphasizes precise technique, quality ingredients, and graceful presentation. Many restaurants offer tableside service elements like flambéed dishes or cheese carts to enhance the dining experience.
Wine pairings feature prominently, with sommeliers expertly matching French vintages and Canadian wines with each course.
Innovative Tasting Menus
Toronto’s culinary elite excel in creating multi-course tasting menus that showcase a chef’s creativity and technical mastery. These experiences typically last several hours and guide diners through a carefully orchestrated progression of flavours.
Pastiche offers one of the city’s most creative tasting experiences with dishes that combine unexpected ingredients and avant-garde techniques. Their presentations often incorporate theatrical elements that engage multiple senses.
Many Toronto fine dining establishments offer both à la carte options and tasting menus of varying lengths (5-16 courses). Prices typically range from $150-$300 per person, with optional wine pairings available.
Restaurants frequently adjust their tasting menus to accommodate dietary restrictions while maintaining the integrity of the culinary experience.
Seasonal and Local Ingredients
Toronto’s finest restaurants prioritize seasonal and local ingredients, developing strong relationships with Ontario farmers, foragers, and artisanal producers. This approach not only ensures peak flavour but supports the regional food economy.
Casa Madera incorporates seasonal Ontario produce into their Mexican-inspired seafood dishes, creating unique fusion cuisine that respects both culinary traditions.
Many restaurants maintain kitchen gardens or partner with specific farms for custom-grown ingredients. Chefs often visit morning markets to select the freshest produce for that evening’s service.
Winter menus showcase preservation techniques like fermentation and pickling alongside greenhouse specialties, while summer brings an abundance of fresh Ontario fruits and vegetables.
Award-Winning Chefs
Toronto’s fine dining scene is elevated by several remarkable chefs who have earned prestigious accolades for their culinary mastery. These innovative kitchen leaders combine technical precision with creative vision to deliver exceptional dining experiences.
Chef Patrick Kriss at Alo
Chef Patrick Kriss has established Alo as one of Toronto’s most celebrated restaurants. With his impeccable French training and meticulous attention to detail, Kriss has earned Alo the distinction of ranking #3 on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list.
Kriss honed his skills at renowned establishments like Daniel in New York and Splendido in Toronto before opening Alo in 2015. His tasting menu showcases contemporary French techniques with seasonal Canadian ingredients.
The restaurant received a coveted Michelin star in Toronto’s inaugural guide, cementing Kriss’s reputation as one of Canada’s culinary elite. His commitment to perfection extends to every aspect of the dining experience, from impeccable service to thoughtfully curated wine pairings.
Chef Keith Froggett at Scaramouche
Chef Keith Froggett has maintained Scaramouche’s position as a fine dining institution for over three decades. His unwavering commitment to classical techniques and pristine ingredients has earned the restaurant consistent rankings among Toronto’s best establishments.
Froggett’s approach emphasizes subtle sophistication rather than flashy trends. His signature dishes, including the coconut cream pie, have achieved legendary status among Toronto diners.
The restaurant offers both casual pasta bar dining and an elegant main dining room with stunning city views. Froggett’s leadership has created a legacy of excellence, with many successful Toronto chefs having trained under his guidance at Scaramouche.
Chef John Horne at Canoe
Chef John Horne leads the kitchen at Canoe, a restaurant that brilliantly showcases Canadian cuisine through a fine dining lens. Located on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, Canoe offers breathtaking views matched only by its exceptional cuisine.
Horne’s cooking philosophy centers on celebrating Canadian ingredients and culinary heritage. His menu features regionally sourced items like Ontario lamb, Arctic char, and foraged mushrooms prepared with modern techniques.
As Culinary Director for Oliver & Bonacini Restaurants, Horne has influenced Toronto’s dining scene significantly. His achievements include multiple appearances on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list and participating in international culinary showcases representing Canadian cuisine.
Chef Lorenzo Loseto at George
Chef Lorenzo Loseto has earned widespread acclaim as the culinary force behind George Restaurant. His innovative approach to contemporary cuisine has garnered multiple awards, including the prestigious Gold Medal at the Canadian Culinary Championships.
Loseto is known for his artistic plate presentations and commitment to seasonal ingredients. His tasting menus change regularly, reflecting the best available produce and his creative inspiration.
The restaurant’s elegant setting in a restored heritage building complements Loseto’s sophisticated cuisine. His cooking style balances complex flavours with clean, precise techniques, often incorporating unexpected international influences while maintaining a distinctly Canadian identity.
George has remained a favourite among critics and diners, with many considering it essential to Toronto’s award-winning restaurant scene.
Ambiance and Dining Experience
Toronto’s fine dining establishments offer more than just exceptional food. The atmosphere, views, seating arrangements, and private options significantly enhance the overall dining experience in the city’s top restaurants.
Elegant Interiors
When dining at Casa Madera, guests are immersed in sophisticated Mexican-inspired décor with warm wooden elements and soft lighting creating an intimate atmosphere. The restaurant’s attention to detail extends to custom tableware and artisanal furniture.
Scaramouche offers a timeless elegant interior with neutral tones and tasteful art pieces adorning the walls. Their minimalist approach allows the food to remain the focal point while still providing a refined backdrop.
Alo Restaurant features contemporary design elements with a subtle colour palette and strategic lighting that highlights both the food and the diners. The carefully curated music complements the space without overwhelming conversation.
Restaurant 20 Victoria utilizes exposed brick and natural materials to create a warm yet sophisticated environment. Their thoughtful interior design reflects Toronto’s architectural heritage while remaining distinctly modern.
Skyline Views
Harriet’s Rooftop offers panoramic views of Toronto’s downtown core and Lake Ontario. The glass-enclosed space allows for year-round enjoyment of the skyline regardless of weather conditions.
Canoe, located on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, provides one of the most spectacular dining views in the city. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows frame the CN Tower and Toronto Islands perfectly, especially beautiful at sunset.
Several fine dining establishments along King Street West feature outdoor terraces with unobstructed views of the Entertainment District’s vibrant architecture. These spaces are particularly coveted during summer months and special events.
For a unique perspective, Bar Poet offers glimpses of Toronto’s historic buildings alongside modern skyscrapers. Their strategic location provides a visual journey through the city’s architectural evolution.
Exclusive Seating
Black + Blue features coveted banquette seating that offers both privacy and a view of the restaurant’s open kitchen. These seats are typically reserved weeks in advance due to their popularity.
Pastiche offers a chef’s table experience where guests can interact directly with the culinary team. This intimate setting accommodates 6-8 diners and provides an educational component to the meal.
Many top Toronto restaurants have implemented thoughtful spacing between tables to ensure conversation privacy. This attention to personal space reflects the premium dining experience they aim to provide.
Some establishments like George feature temperature-controlled wine rooms where select guests can dine surrounded by rare vintages. These unique settings come with dedicated sommelier service throughout the meal.
Private Dining Options
PAI offers a separate dining room that accommodates groups of 10-20 guests with customizable Thai menus and dedicated service staff. The space can be transformed to suit various celebration themes.
For corporate events, Maxime’s provides fully equipped meeting rooms adjacent to private dining areas. Their technological amenities include projection systems and videoconferencing capabilities.
Several Toronto fine dining establishments offer buyout options for special occasions. These arrangements provide exclusive access to the entire restaurant, often with personalized menus and entertainment options.
Prequel & Co. Apothecary features intimate alcoves that provide semi-private dining without full separation from the main restaurant. This balance offers both exclusivity and the energetic atmosphere of the main dining room.
Wine Selections and Beverage Programs
Toronto’s fine dining establishments offer exceptional beverage programs that enhance the culinary experience. These restaurants carefully curate their drink offerings to complement their food menus and satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Sommelier-Curated Wine Lists
Toronto’s top restaurants boast impressive wine collections managed by expert sommeliers. Louie Louix features an extensive selection of both Old and New World wines, with special attention to small-batch producers. Their sommeliers regularly update the list to include seasonal offerings.
TOCA houses one of the city’s most impressive wine cellars with over 500 labels. Their temperature-controlled wine room displays rare vintages and limited releases.
Many establishments like Scaramouche have earned recognition for their notable wine lists that feature both international classics and emerging Canadian vineyards. The 360 Restaurant offers not only spectacular views but also an award-winning wine selection featuring over 550 labels from around the globe.
Craft Cocktails
Innovative mixology programs complement the wine offerings at Toronto’s elite restaurants. Establishments like Casa Madera serve signature cocktails incorporating house-made infusions, bitters, and syrups that reflect seasonal ingredients.
Boxcar Social crafts cocktails that highlight Toronto’s multicultural influences, using techniques from molecular gastronomy to traditional mixing methods. Their bartenders often create personalized drinks based on guest preferences.
Many restaurants feature tableside cocktail preparation as part of the dining spectacle. Premium spirits, artisanal ingredients, and creative presentations elevate the cocktail experience beyond mere drinks to become integral components of the meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Toronto’s fine dining venues excel at guiding guests through thoughtful food and beverage pairings. Restaurants like DaNico offer tasting menus with pre-selected wine pairings that highlight the harmony between cuisine and beverages.
Sommeliers at Le Paradis Brasserie Bistro work closely with chefs to create unexpected but delightful combinations, such as Ontario Riesling with their signature seafood dishes or local craft beers with elevated comfort foods.
Ladybug Wine Bar specializes in natural wine pairings that complement their seasonal menu. Their staff provides accessible guidance for both connoisseurs and newcomers, explaining how certain flavour profiles enhance specific dishes.
Location and Accessibility
Toronto’s finest dining establishments are strategically located across the city, with many clustered in popular dining districts. The Financial District hosts many upscale options, including LOUIX LOUIS and The Chase.
Yorkville remains a prime area for luxury dining experiences, where patrons can enjoy exquisite meals in an elegant setting. The Entertainment District also offers several high-end restaurants that cater to theatre-goers and downtown visitors.
Most fine dining restaurants in Toronto are accessible by public transit. The TTC subway system provides convenient access to major dining areas, with many establishments within walking distance of subway stations.
For those driving, many restaurants offer valet parking services. However, it’s worth noting that downtown parking can be limited and expensive during peak hours.
Accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges has improved significantly in recent years. Many top restaurants in Toronto now feature wheelchair-accessible entrances, washrooms, and dining areas.
Reservations are strongly recommended for Toronto’s fine dining scene. Popular establishments like Restaurant 20 Victoria and Canoe can be booked weeks in advance, especially for weekend dinners.
Several acclaimed restaurants are located in hotels, including REIGN at the Fairmont Royal York and CLOCKWORK at the Fairmont, making them convenient options for visitors staying downtown.
Reservation Policies and Dress Code
Toronto’s fine dining establishments typically require reservations, especially for weekend dining. Many top restaurants like Alo Restaurant open booking windows 2-3 months in advance and fill quickly.
Some restaurants use online reservation systems like OpenTable, where diners can view photos and read reviews before booking. Others require a phone call or direct email.
Cancellation Policies:
- 24-48 hour notice typically required
- Credit card holds common for premium reservations
- No-show fees range from $50-150 per person
Dress codes vary across Toronto’s upscale dining scene. MARBL Restaurant enforces a strict dress code, prohibiting hoodies, hats, athletic wear, sportswear, swimwear, sweatsuits, tracksuits, jerseys, and flip-flops.
Most fine dining restaurants in Toronto expect smart casual to formal attire. Men typically wear collared shirts and dress pants, while women opt for dresses, skirts, or dress pants with blouses.
Michelin-starred establishments like Don Alfonso 1890 may have more formal expectations without explicitly stating them. When uncertain, business casual is generally appropriate.
It’s advisable to check specific requirements when booking. The restaurant’s website or reservation staff can provide current dress code information to ensure a smooth dining experience.
Private Events and Catering Services
Toronto’s fine dining establishments offer exceptional private dining spaces for special occasions. Many restaurants provide dedicated rooms that combine luxury with personalized service for corporate meetings, weddings, and celebrations.
Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality restaurants feature diverse private spaces suitable for intimate wedding ceremonies and receptions. Their professional event teams handle everything from menu planning to audiovisual requirements.
Several award-winning restaurants like Canoe and George offer customized catering options. These MICHELIN-recognized establishments bring their culinary expertise to events of all sizes.
Popular Private Dining Venues in Toronto:
Many restaurants accommodate groups of various sizes, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for peak seasons and weekends.
Toronto’s private dining scene offers flexibility in menu options. Most venues provide set menus, family-style dining, or custom creations to match event themes and dietary requirements.
For truly special events, some establishments offer chef’s table experiences where guests enjoy dishes prepared and presented by executive chefs in exclusive settings.
Sustainable Practices and Community Engagement
Toronto’s fine dining scene isn’t just about exquisite flavours—many restaurants are leading the way in sustainability and giving back to their communities.
Several top restaurants have embraced local sourcing practices, developing relationships with nearby farmers and suppliers. This ensures fresh, seasonal ingredients while reducing carbon footprints associated with transportation.
The city boasts numerous sustainable dining options where patrons can enjoy guilt-free gourmet experiences. These establishments often implement waste reduction programs and energy-efficient operations.
Notable Sustainable Initiatives:
- Farm-to-table sourcing
- Composting programs
- Plastic-free service
- Energy-efficient equipment
- Water conservation methods
Many of these restaurants actively engage with local communities through charitable events, fundraisers, and educational programs about sustainable food practices.
Five leading restaurants in Toronto are going beyond basic sustainability measures, truly pioneering eco-friendly dining in the city. Their comprehensive approaches include everything from building materials to staff training.
Toronto’s sustainable dining scene continues to grow, with numerous local organizations supporting restaurants in their environmental efforts through partnerships, certifications, and educational resources.
These sustainability leaders are proving that environmental responsibility and culinary excellence can deliciously coexist on the same plate.
Recognition and Accolades
Toronto’s fine dining scene has garnered impressive recognition from prestigious culinary authorities. The city now boasts multiple MICHELIN-starred restaurants, with the guide recognizing 90 establishments throughout Toronto.
Among the most celebrated is Restaurant 20 Victoria, which appears on both the MICHELIN Guide and ranks as No. 4 on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list. This dual recognition demonstrates its exceptional culinary standards.
Alo has consistently received high praise, earning the No. 3 position on Canada’s 100 Best rankings. Its commitment to innovative tasting menus has established it as a cornerstone of Toronto’s high-end dining landscape.
Several Toronto restaurants have become regulars on “best of” lists, including:
- Canoe – Known for its Canadian-inspired cuisine and stunning views
- George – Celebrated for elegant fine dining
- Edulis – Ranked No. 2 on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants
- Mon Lapin – Impressively holding the No. 1 spot on Canada’s 100 Best
Tripadvisor’s Fine Dining category highlights patron favourites including Casa Madera for Mexican-inspired seafood and Black + Blue for premium steaks. These establishments have earned their reputations through consistent excellence.
Many of Toronto’s top restaurants also appear on OpenTable’s award-winning list, reflecting both critical acclaim and diners’ enthusiastic feedback.