Kensington Market

5 Kensington Market restaurants that every foodie needs to try

Kensington Market stands out in Torontoโ€™s patchwork of neighbourhoods. Itโ€™s an excitingย  blend of quirky shops, cool restaurants and cozy homes, all packed into one vibrant, chaotic space. With its fusion of cultures and creativity, itโ€™s the kind of place where you can wander, get lost and stumble upon something unforgettable (and delicious).

Itโ€™s tough to pick just five, but here are the top restaurants every foodie should hit in Kensington.

Rasta Pasta

 

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Rasta PastaCanโ€™t decide between classic jerk chicken or a homemade plate of pasta? At Rasta Pasta you can have both. A staple in the neighbourhood for the last decade, Rasta Pasta is a Jamaican-Italian fusion shop serving up authentic Caribbean cuisine and Italian eats in a stylish (albeit small) space. Some of their delicious offerings include Jamaican chicken, goat and oxtail dishes along with pasta dishes with an island twist like the jerk chicken lasagna ($20) or the scampi linguine ($18) in a coconut and creamed curry sauce. Thereโ€™s also roti and a trio of grilled panini ($10) served with Rasta Pastaโ€™s delicious coleslaw. 61 Kensington Ave.

Gus Tacos

 

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Run ย out of a small food stall in Kensington Market, Gus Tacos has built a reputation for its legendary tacos. In addition to the classics like chicken and steak, Gus offers inventive protein options including braised lamb and grilled fish. For non-meat eaters, the shop offers mushroom and queso protein options. These are available to order in the form of a taco, burrito, quesadilla, chilaca, or torta. Be sure you have a cold drink next to you when you try Gusโ€™ hot signature salsa. The private backyard patio, decorated with hanging bulb lights, provides a sunny space to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine.

Golden Patty

 

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Golden Patty in Kensington Market is the place for authentic Jamaican patties, filled with beef, goat, or shrimp. The goat is a must-try, but the variety keeps things interesting. Add some coco bread for a filling snack. Beyond patties, the rotis are loaded, the fresh-baked bread is a treat, and the cookies hit that perfect chewy-crisp balance. For the full experience, grab a slice of rum fruit cake or a bottle of ginger beer.

Sunnys Chinese

 

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Sunnys Chinese, born from a successful pandemic pop-up, now stands as one of the cityโ€™s sought-after dining spots. Nestled in Kensington Market, the former Cold Tea space exudes cool vibes with moody lighting, groovy beats, and playful details. Chefs David Schwartz and Braden Chong bring a well-researched approach to regional Chinese cuisine, offering a diverse menu from Sichuan to Hong Kong. From perfected American-Chinese classics like orange chicken to deep dives into Chinaโ€™s culinary culture with dishes like Husband and Wife Beef, Sunnys delivers a varied experience. Chinese-inspired cocktails complete the culinary adventure. 60 Kensington Ave.

Sleepy Pete’s

Sleepy Peteโ€™s has settled into Kensington Market as a must-visit spot for anyone who knows that a great breakfast sandwich can make or break your day. From the same folks behind Sevenย Lives, itโ€™s where the masses go for easygoing, comforting bites. The breakfast sandwiches are the star โ€” from the crispy egg and chicken sausage combo to the sweet and savory Monte Cristo.ย 

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