We’re only just over a month in and already 2023 is promising big things for Toronto’s food, beverage and dining scene. From coffee shops and noodle bars to breweries and sports bars, we’ve already been blessed with plenty of new eateries. And it’s not slowing down anytime soon, as favourite brands from all over the globe are making their way to Toronto this year.
Here are five international brands coming to Toronto in 2023.
Mott 32
A high-end Chinese restaurant is moving into 190 University Avenue to fill the hole left in our hearts when Momofuko Noodle Bar left the Shangri-La Hotel late last year. Fortunately, its replacement isn’t a drastic change from the beloved David Chang restaurant, as Mott 32 serves up seasonal Chinese cuisine using modern approaches in an upscale dining room. This will be the second Mott 32 in Canada, following the Vancouver location which has been recognized and awarded for both the tastes and interior design of the space. Though no launch date has been announced yet, we’re confident Toronto’s location will taste and look just as exclusive, making it well worth the wait.
Afuri Ramen
An international and global favourite ramen hotspot is moving into 413 Church Street—hopefully in time to warm up our souls before the end of winter. We have expectations as high as the mountain the restaurant is named after, since, while Toronto has no shortage of ramen, these noodles are one-of-a-kind. Made with the Japanese touch of yuzu, an East Asian citrus fruit, the noodles offer a high-quality freshness that matches the elegant though minimalist feel of the dining space. While Afuri Ramen currently has locations spanning from the U.S. to Singapore and China, this will be the third Canadian location, following behind two restaurants in British Columbia.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Things are heating up in the city this winter as the world’s largest barbecue concept prepares to open its first Canadian franchise right here in Toronto. If you’re unfamiliar with Dickey’s Barbecue Pit (not BBQ because there are no short cuts to their meats!), you better get used to it, because the Dallas-born brand will be all over Canada soon enough. Earlier this fall, it was announced that the location would be opening at 472 Yonge Street before the end of the year, marking the start of a plan to develop 65 locations just across the GTA and Niagara alone, and even more across the country.
Fogo de Chao
It’s a big year for Toronto’s meat lovers, as a Brazilian steakhouse joins the city’s lineup of top meateries. Brazil might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking steak, and yet that’s where Fogo de Chao began with its first location in Porto Alegre in 1979. Named for the authentic Southern Brazilian grilling technique, Fogo de Chao offers the full churrasco experience, which, according to the website, is the “prix-fixe menu which includes continual service of fire-roasted meats carved tableside by Brazilian trained gaucho chefs.” Though no location is announced yet, Toronto will be the entryway for the brand into Canada before opening 10 locations within the decade.
Nobu Restaurant
One of the most anticipated openings this year is the arrival of Nobu Hotel and Suites in Toronto’s entertainment district. Towering over the historical heritage site of the Pilkington Glass Factory, 45 stories will make up two modern, sleek towers, housing luxury residential units and hotel suites. On the ground floor, one of the most recognizable Japanese restaurants will be making a statement. Founded by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper, the upscale Nobu Restaurant will be 1,500 square feet, covering two levels. As exclusive and high-end as the other restaurants, Nobu Toronto will have a signature bar lounge, outdoor seating and even private dining rooms. Though the residences won’t be ready until late in the year, the restaurant reportedly could be open as early as summer.
