Amid a flood of new eateries that open each week, a few manage to rise above the rest.From a Vietnamese snack and cocktail bar in the Junction to a late-night sandwich spot with a twist, here are the 12 best new restaurants to check out in Toronto this week.
1. Aisle 3
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Aisle 3 is a Vietnamese snack and cocktail bar in the Junction, blending traditional flavors with modern twists. Inspired by their Vietnamese roots and global culinary influences, the menu features reimagined small plates, including a ‘Raw Bar’ with creative takes on classic dishes, reflecting the city’s diverse food scene. 2535 Dundas Street W.
2. Bar Maaya
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Opened just a few short months ago, Maaya offers a moody and dark vibe that sets the perfect backdrop for its immersive cocktail experience. Picture red velvet chairs lining the expansive bar, marble countertops gleaming under dim lights, and vibrant, mysterious decor that perfectly reflects the bar’s theme of illusion.Maaya’s menu features a range of sharable plates inspired by both Eastern and Western cultures. Begin with the chicken karaage — crispy, soy-citrus-marinated bites — and pair it with the tuna ceviche, topped with creamy avocado and sweet mango. Other dishes worth noting include the lamb chops seasoned with Asian spices and served with mint and cardamom yogurt and the grilled red garlic shrimp marinated in a fragrant ginger-garlic sauce. And you can’t leave without trying the truffle fries—crispy, indulgent and the perfect sidekick to your cocktails. 244 Adelaide St. W.
3. Coire
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Coire, located inside Danu Social House, is your late-night spot for sandwiches and bar snacks. On the menu: a killer mortadella sandwich with pimento, fresh cheese and charred Serrano chilies (optional, no judgment), a Vegan Eggplant “Meatball” Sandwich with Puttanesca marinara, and the indulgent Monte Cubano. 1237 Queen St. W.
4. z-teca Cocina Mexicana
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Z-teca Cocina Mexicana at Bay Adelaide Centre serves up fresh, handcrafted Mexican dishes that celebrate bold flavours and quality ingredients. The menu features burritos, bowls, tacos, tortas and more, all made to order with ingredients prepared, roasted and grilled in-house daily. Standout items include the pollo milanesa torta, a crispy, breaded chicken sandwich with juicy tomatoes, melted cheese, pickled onions, hand-mashed guacamole and smoky chipotle crema. The Classic Breakfast Torta, featuring fresh eggs, Monterey Jack cheese, guacamole and cilantro in a toasted bun, is another must-try. 333 Bay St.
5. Chiang Mai York Mills
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The newest addition to the Chiang Mai family has opened at York Mills, bringing all the authentic Thai favourites along with exclusive dishes like the Khao Soi Surf & Turf. This elevated version of the classic khao soi features lobster tail and melt-in-your-mouth braised beef, served with rich curry, egg noodles and traditional toppings like pickled red onion, mustard greens and crispy shallots. Brunch is now being served daily from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with all your favourites on the menu. For a unique twist, try the Mango Sticky Rice cocktail — a tropical blend of dark rum, coconut rum, mango purée and coconut, topped with fresh mango. 860 York Mills Rd.
6. Carnival
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Between nightly celebrations, specials, and immersive plating, a new contemporary Indian restaurant in the Junction is serving up nothing short of a good time. Since opening just a few months ago, Carnival has been getting rave reviews for its showstopping dishes that aren’t just a treat for your tastebuds, but a treat for all the senses.But it’s the eye-catching dishes that truly steal the show. From dry ice and sparklers to aromatherapy at the table, every dish comes with an elaborate and immersive display and presentation. Among the most popular and fun-to-watch dishes are the deconstructed Black Forest Cake and the Carnival Chaat — a spicy, tangy twist on the classic street food, mixed right at your table by the chef. 369 Keele St.
7. HolmPei Café
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New to Bay and Dundas, Asian-owned and operated Holmpei Café is bringing a fresh, local vibe to the downtown scene, with everything from grab-and-go coffee to brunch, dinner, and cocktails. Cozy yet refined, it’s just the spot the neighbourhood needed. Brunch here is all about flavour. The Wild Smoked Salmon Cornbread Waffle Benny is Instagram-ready with poached eggs, salmon roses, and garnishes. The Holmpei Pancake stands out — a Dutch pancake served in a cast iron skillet, filled with prosciutto, figs and burrata. They also serve killer cocktails like espresso martinis and lychee spritz. 122 Dundas St. W.
8.Vera Vera
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Vera Vera is a Southern European-inspired pop-up bakery on Queen west, serving up handmade phyllo pastries, sandwiches and salads. Highlights include spinach and cheese, potato leek and sage and a salted pistachio and rose honey phyllo. They’ve also partnered with local spots like Bar Raval and Primrose Bagels for special pies. Open until the end of the month, Vera Vera is a must-visit before it closes. The pop-up is the latest project from Andrew Youngson, a renowned chef who’s worked at top Toronto restaurants and BC’s award-winning Hawksworth and Sooke Harbour House. After honing his bar skills in Vancouver, Youngson returned to Toronto and is now bringing his culinary expertise to this unique bakery concept. 1166 Queen St. W.
9. Bali Eatery & Lounge
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Baili Eatery & Lounge in North York blends Chinese fusion with a modern lounge vibe. The menu is a hit with creative dishes like lobster scrambled eggs in ginger garlic sauce, truffle lobster fried rice  and fresh salmon ceviche. Standout items also include assorted skewers and salted egg yolk tiramisu. With prices around $30 per person, Baili offers bold flavours and innovative takes on classic Chinese comfort food. 6114 Yonge St., North York.
10. Thong Lor
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Sister to Si Lom Thai Bistro, Thong Lor is a Thai grill bar serving up bold flavours. Try the signature Hoy Jor — crispy crab nuggets made with jumbo lump crab meat in tofu skin, paired with plum mayo. Another highlight: Thai BBQ and pork toast, a Thai street food fave with marinated pork on toast, perfectly balanced with cucumber relish. Cocktails here bring a good old-time vibe. A Bold Mix combines black Thai tea, whiskey, Cointreau, honey, lemonade, bitters and a touch of gold powder. Baan Puen (Friend’s House) is a fun mix of vodka, triple sec, cranberry and lime, with a side of cotton candy for a sweet twist. 555 Church St.
11. La Chuperia
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La Chuperia Tacos is a must-visit for authentic Mexican food in Little Italy. Their signature molcajete dish delivers a delicious taste of Mexico in a bowl. Founded by Carlos and his wife, this spot aims to share their passion for authentic flavours with the neighbourhood. Menu highlights include tacos al pastor, quesabirrias  and a seafood molcajete. Wash it all down with a Corona Michelada, Piña Colada, or Agua de Jamaica. Whether you’re in the mood for a cold beer or a refreshing Cantarito, this place has you covered! 635 College St.
12. Amo’s
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At Amo’s, an Italian-inspired gem in The Beaches on Queen Street, diners are treated to a diverse menu featuring breakfast classics, homemade hash-brown latkas and hearty sandwiches. For dinner, indulge in the unique pastas and signature dishes like Ribeye steak, Pistachio Crusted Salmon or the mouthwatering 4-piece Lamb Chops. 2014 Queen St. E.
