Toronto, Canada

Eating out in Toronto, Canada

A surge of ethnic residents has fueled the fire of Toronto's dining scene, now boasting over 5,000 restaurants. Mediterranean and fusion cuisine dominate, and chefs adopt their favorite techniques and flavors from each culture to create original dishes.

Gourmet

North 44 is regarded as the finest restaurant in Toronto and a recent renovation has it looking the part. Mirrors and a marble floor add a sleek look to the spacious room. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always get fusion delights like veal tenderloin roasted with orange peppercorns or roasted Muscovy duck breast with orange soy marinade. The service is an extra treat. 2537 Younge Street.

Highly Recommended

Patriot's has a classic décor with modern touches and graceful regional fare complemented by an extensive list of Niagara Region wines. Favorite meals include the stuffed rabbit and other French-Canadian specialties, with service that offers a perfect balance of attention and privacy. 131 Bloor Street West.

Local Flair

Canoe's polished wood and simple décor blend into the terrific views of the Toronto Islands and Lake Ontario from almost every table. Canadian entrees with a multi-ethnic twist range from pan-seared Quebec foie gras to herb-stuffed breast of Ontario pheasant. 66 Wellington Street West.

Romantic

Sen5es is dedicated to pleasing all five senses. The owner combines a sophisticated dining room of soothing sandy tones, with music to match, and aromatic, creative meals to wow even the most jaded gourmand. Feast on delicacies such as crabmeat salad with apple, and grilled salmon with roasted fennel. Don't miss the dessert delicacies! 15 Bloor Street West.

Going party in Toronto, Canada

Although it's hardly a city that never sleeps, Toronto makes a good showing at night. You'll find some of the best comic performances anywhere, and the theater is tops. Toronto attracts all the best of Broadway and often many performances are shown here even before they make it to New York. The Toronto Symphony Orchestra has earned international respect and the city jumps with international dance and music. The bar scene revolves mostly around crowded, trendy clubs, but classic pool halls are still favorites.

Eligin and Winter Garden Theatres

This former vaudeville hall is the last operating double-decker theatre in the world. Shows range from comedy to Shakespeare.

Macmillian Theatre

This venue is the stepping stone to stardom for many young musicians. Concerts are offered at little or no cost and include some fantastic performances.

Hummingbird Center for the Performing Arts

Home of the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada, you'll enjoy the classics as well as Broadway and Broadway-bound shows, and the occasional rock concert.

Second City

Comedians hone their craft here before moving on to venues like Saturday Night Live and gain international recognition.

Rosewater Supper Club

If you've just gotta have a swanky martini while listening to a torch singer crooning alongside a baby grand piano, this is the place to go. Blue velvet banquettes for two add to the Swinging 20s ambiance of this sophisticated little hotspot.

Crocodile Rock

This is a laid-back bar with 70s and 80s dance songs and a cheerful 25-40 year old crowd. Plenty of pool tables complete the scene.

Common events in Toronto, Canada

Winterfest

A celebration of all that winter has to offer, 3-days of festivities include ice-skating, snow plays, ice sculpting, and arts and crafts shows. February.

Toronto Festival of Storytelling

In appreciation of international folklore, 60 storytellers read and perform legendary tales from all over the world. February.

Sente-The Bloor-Yorkville Wine Festival

Four days of gourmet food, Ontario wines, and jazz fill the streets of Yorkville. April.

Harbourfront Reading Series

Readings from famous Canadian authors such as Timothy Findley, Anne Michaels, and Barbara Gowdy take place at various Harbourfront venues. This is a renowned celebration of the literary works of Canada. June.

Toronto International Festival Caravan

This is North America's largest international festival and lasts 9 days. Featured events celebrate the cultures that have made their mark on Canada with food, crafts, music, and dance by over 100 ethnic groups. June.

Caribana

This festival is a Canadian interpretation of Carnival and results in a feast of the Caribbean and Latin America in Toronto. Cruises, island picnics, concerts, and arts-and-crafts exhibits contribute to the festivities July - August.

Toronto International Film Festival

More than 250 films from 70 countries are shown during this ten-day celebration of the art of cinematography. Celebrities mingle and host screenings. September.