Toronto is one of the cities worldwide that boasts a very dynamic food scene, offering a wide array of cuisines to suit various tastes. Out of these, Italian cuisine has carved a special niche in the hearts of locals and visitors. Be it authentic pasta, wood-fired pizzas, or any other classic Italian dish, Toronto houses a variety of restaurants sure to please every palate. Now, let us look into some of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto in order to have a good dining experience.
1. Terroni
Situated in Toronto at varied locations all over the city, this is one of the most renowned Italian restaurants. The restaurant gained acclaim for its traditional Southern Italian cuisine and relished the warmth of hospitality. Terroni offers a wide range of pastas, pizzas, antipasti, all of which are prepared with fresh ingredients. Tagliatelle alla Bolognese and Margherita pizza are the top two most visited dishes ordered by diners. The casual feel to this restaurant makes it the perfect restaurant to have a light meal with friends or family.
2. Gusto 101
Located in Ontario’s Fashion District, Gusto 101 is another Italian restaurant that has become very popular. Located in an old automobile body shop, the restaurant takes on the feel of an industrial-chic design with great vibes. The menu at Gusto 101 includes wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, Truffle Mac & Cheese, Pollo al Mattone, and more. Their wine list is long, going into detail about more than 200 wines, including their own wine, served on tap, in-house. This place will get quite the boost this summer with a rooftop patio.
3. Sotto Sotto
Without a doubt, for an upscale dinner, Sotto Sotto is one of the best Italian restaurants that Toronto has to offer. Located in the Yorkville area, this fine dining restaurant offers fine cuisine with menu items made up of traditional Italian dishes. The real standouts of this restaurant are Linguine alle Vongole and Osso Buco, both dishes that respect quality and authenticity. It features a classy atmosphere and flawless service, which truly makes Sotto Sotto one of the most popular places to take your special someone or to have a special dinner.
4. Buca
Buca is one of Toronto’s newest Italian spots, with a very modern twist on classical Italian cuisine. The dishes are all made up of fresh, high-end ingredients put together in unique ways. Buca shifts its menu seasonally, reflecting the very best of what local markets have to offer. The core dishes include the house-made salumi, Tagliatelle ai Funghi, and Olive Oil Cake for dessert. Rustic-chic decorations and an intimate atmosphere make Buca very special; it is where one would want to spend memorable evenings while dining.
5. Piano Piano
Piano Piano is an Ontario Italian restaurant that puts a playful twist on traditional dishes. Situated in the heart of Harbord Village, it offers one of the most lively dinner scenes in addition to great food. It features pizzas, pastas, and mains that are very fresh and full of flavor. Their Funghi Pizza and Spaghetti Carbonara are popular options. The playful interior, done in bold patterns and bright colors, only furthers this feeling of fun and welcomeness.
Other Notable Italian Restaurants in Toronto
While the above-mentioned spots are some of the very best, Toronto has so much more to offer in terms of great Italian restaurants in Toronto. Here are a few more recommendations:
- Enoteca Sociale gives you a warm and private dining experience with Roman-inspired dishes and a vast wine selection. Cacio e Pepe and Polenta Fritta are suggested.
- Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar is located at a couple of branches in Toronto, with the concept of casual dining and the Italian classic twisted into modernity. Fresh Mozzarella and their Signature Meatballs have been well-recommended.
- Bar Isabel—Even though not completely Italian, their Mediterranean-inspired dishes can definitely stand next to the Italian influences. This becomes highly recommended during a homey feel and the ingenuity of the menu.
The Best Pasta Places in Toronto
When it comes to finding the best place for pasta in Toronto, the city holds a host of options. From the traditional Bolognese sauce and the creamy Carbonara to seafood-infused pasta dishes, Toronto’s Italian restaurants have it all. Terroni, Gusto 101, and Buca take the lead, touting unique takes on pasta dishes with style.
Toronto’s scene of Italian restaurants is different and vibrant, offering a wide array of dining experiences to suit every taste and occasion. From casual eateries to fine dining spots, the city has a number of great options in search of Italian food in Toronto. Only among the best Italian restaurants in Toronto, the above-mentioned restaurants offer great food, friendly atmospheres, and top service.
Whether you’re a local or just a food visitor to Toronto, these are the top Italian restaurants that should be on your must-try list. Taste the richness in both classic and contemporary variations of Italian cuisine, and feel the hospitality of the hosts. There are plenty of really cool options here to help you find your new spot for the best Italian in Toronto.
