As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is a food lover’s paradise, boasting a diverse range of cuisines and dining experiences. But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to grab your next bite.
To spare you the hassle of aimlessly wandering Toronto in search of your next delicious bite, our team of food enthusiasts has carefully selected the best lunch spots in the city.
If you’re up for a mouthwatering exploration of Toronto’s hidden gems and restaurants, then let’s jump right in!
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What Makes a Good Place to Eat Lunch?
When it comes to lunch, you want more than just good food. You want an experience that satisfies your cravings and leaves you feeling energized and refreshed. So what makes a good place to eat lunch? Here are a few key factors to consider:
Quality of Food
Food quality comes first. A good lunch spot uses fresh, high-quality ingredients and has a variety of menu options for different tastes and diets.
Atmosphere
The restaurant’s atmosphere can make or break lunch. Factors such as lighting, music, and decor affect the mood.
Service
Friendly and attentive service can also make your lunch enjoyable. A good lunch spot should have knowledgeable and helpful staff who will accommodate your requests and make you feel valued.
Convenience
Lunch should be convenient and close to work or other activities. You don’t want to waste time and energy traveling for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch.
| Best Lunch Places in Toronto | Google Rating | Google Reviews |
| PLANTA | 4.4 | 3,101 |
| Grazie Ristorante | 4.5 | 2,686 |
| Trattoria Nervosa | 4.4 | 2,326 |
| Olde Yorke Fish & Chips | 4.6 | 2,308 |
| Mezes | 4.5 | 2,066 |
Where to find the Best Lunch in Toronto
Google My Maps Link:
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Here are our top picks for the perfect lunch spot in Toronto.
PLANTA
“Hearty plant-based meals”
A visually appetizing plant-based lunch meal at PLANTA. (Image source: PLANTA Instagram)
Looking for a lunch spot in Toronto that caters to all dietary needs? Look no further than PLANTA, a modern and chic restaurant that serves plant-based cuisine with a mix of Eastern and Western flavors. It has an upscale atmosphere, complete with a private dining area that provides a perfect backdrop for your memorable lunch.
Vegan Maki rolls are available at PLANTA. (Image source: PLANTA Instagram)
While every dish at PLANTA is excellent, there are some standout options that you can’t afford to miss. Lasagna is a particular favorite, with its rich, savory flavors that are hard to resist. If you prefer something lighter, the dumplings and Bang Bang Broccoli appetizer are highly recommended. Lastly, don’t forget to check out their impressive cocktail and beverage selection.
Pricing: Brunch Menu starts at $13.75
Pros
- Friendly and welcoming staff with excellent customer service.
- Delicious and fresh drinks, including lemon water and cold-pressed juice.
- Good ambiance, full of light and greenery, with a nice section of other beverages.
Cons
- The restaurant can be very busy and loud, especially during peak hours
Location: 1221 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5R 3P5
Google Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5 (3,101 reviews)
Grazie Ristorante
“Lunch in a cozy, warm setting”
From antipasti to dessert, Grazie Ristorante has it all. (Image source: Grazie Ristorante Instagram)
As a fan of great food, we couldn’t resist trying out Grazie Ristorante for lunch. The ambiance of this Southern Italian cantina-inspired restaurant with caramel-colored walls and casual seating is perfect for a relaxed lunch. They have an extensive menu covering antipasti, pizza, pasta, entrees, and desserts, giving plenty of options to choose from.
Delicious and satisfying pizza at Grazie Ristorante. (Image source: Grazie Ristorante Instagram)
One of the standout dishes at Grazie Ristorante is the Giovanni pizza, which is a must-try for any pizza lover. The restaurant also prides itself on using superb quality ingredients in all of its dishes, resulting in consistently great food. Its courteous staff is a bonus, with their friendly service and even singing the Italian version of the birthday song for those celebrating their birthdays.
Pricing: Appetizers start at $9.00
Pros
- Baked goat cheese salad is a highlight.
- Friendly service and staff.
- Fresh, rich flavors with heavy use of cheese.
Cons
- 20% pre-installed gratuities for parties of eight or more.
Location: 2373 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 2C8
Google Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (2,686 reviews)
Trattoria Nervosa
“A comforting Italian meal”
Stop in today at Trattoria Nervosa for some southern Italian classics. (Image source: Trattoria Nervosa Instagram)
Trattoria Nervosa is a beloved Italian restaurant that has made a name for itself both for its southern Italian cuisine and its reputation as a celebrity hotspot. Housed in a charming little yellow house, Trattoria Nervosa offers a cozy and homey atmosphere that feels like a warm embrace. The rooftop patio is a particularly delightful spot to soak up the sunshine on a beautiful day.
Trattoria Nervosa has perfect portions that leave you feeling satisfied, not overwhelmed. (Image source: Trattoria Nervosa Instagram)
The food at Trattoria Nervosa is nothing short of delicious. Guests rave about the mushroom-flavored risotto, the hot and crispy pizza with a hint of spiciness, and the highly recommended kale salad that seems to be a hit with every table. Their portions are well-sized and satisfying, without feeling overwhelming.
Pricing: Appetizers start at $12.99
Pros
- Friendly and approachable staff.
- Tiramisu is a great dessert option—not too sweet.
- Freshly made pasta with a great bounce to every bite.
Cons
- The restaurant can get loud and cramped as it gets busier.
Location: 75 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 1B8
Google Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5 (2,326 reviews)
Olde Yorke Fish & Chips
“An authentic British lunch experience”
Olde Yorke offers authentic British-style fish and chips with thick-cut potato chips. (Image source: Olde Yorke Fish & Chips Instagram)
Olde Yorke Fish & Chips has been a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its authentic British-style fish and chips with thick-cut potato chips. Tucked away on Laird Drive, This restaurant is big on three things: good service, fair prices, and fresh fish.
Perfectly cooked cod cheeks are a highlight of the menu. (Image source: Olde Yorke Fish & Chips Instagram)
The delicious and outstanding food is a testament to the high standards of Olde Yorke. From perfectly cooked cod and chips to amazing halibut meals and fish tacos, this spot has something for everyone. Don’t be surprised if there’s a line out the door during peak hours, but rest assured that the wait will be worth it.
Pricing: Meals start at $12.50
Pros
- Exceptional service and attentive staff.
- Cozy and nicely decorated interior with ample seating.
- The key lime pie is very well made with an excellent filling and crust
Cons
- Long wait time to get seated and congested near the entrance during busy hours.
Location: 96 Laird Dr, East York, ON M4G 3V3
Google Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5 (2,308 reviews)
Mezes
“Perfect for a casual lunch”
Enjoy a lively atmosphere and authentic Greek cuisine at Mezes. (Image source: Mezes Instagram)
Nestled in the heart of Toronto, there’s a little gem of a restaurant that has captured the hearts of many: Mezes. From the moment you walk in, you can tell that the owner’s family traditions and culture served as inspiration for this charming restaurant.
The ambiance is cozy and traditional, with Greek-style decor that will transport you to the Mediterranean in no time. The menu is a feast for the senses, offering authentic Greek dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. Be sure to try the perfectly cooked seabream with its delicious barbecue flavor, and the Greek salad is simply amazing.
The lively atmosphere is especially enjoyable during the summertime when the outdoor patio is open. With such authentic and well-priced food, Mezes is the perfect place for a casual lunch or dinner.
Pricing: Entrees start at $29.00
Pros
- Good hummus and soft bread.
- Friendly staff who tend to your needs.
- Delicious gyros with huge portion sizes.
Cons
- Long wait times, especially during peak hours.
Location: 456 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1P3
Google Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (2,066 reviews)
Eat A Hearty Lunch To Fuel The Rest Of Your Day
When it comes to lunch options, Toronto is a city that has a flourishing culinary scene, and there is something for everyone to choose from. From traditional Canadian fare to international cuisine, there’s no shortage of incredible lunch spots to explore.
So take a culinary journey through the city’s diverse neighborhoods and indulge in the unique flavors that each has to offer. We promise you won’t regret it!