Amid the constant wave of new eateries opening each week, a few standout spots manage to rise above the rest. From a cozy Japanese izakaya to a bold new Italian kitchen, here are 11 of the best new restaurants to try in Toronto right now.
1. Cheongju Izakaya
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Cheongju is a cozy Japanese-Korean spot in Little Portugal offering home-style comfort food with a modern izakaya vibe. Named after the Korean city its erving classics like pajeon, chicken karaage, and bulgogi yaki udon alongside creative rolls like the Snowy Dragon and Fire Dragon. From sizzling galbi to creamy rose tteokbokki, every dish pairs well with their solid lineup of sake, soju, and Japanese beers. 598 College St.
2. Bar 24
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On Dundas West, this neighbourhood cocktail bar offers a chill, no-fuss atmosphere with a solid menu of small plates and drinks. The space is cozy and casual—great for a relaxed night out. On the food side, you’ll find options like arancini balls, torpedo shrimp, lamb speducci, avocado toast, and a charcuterie board. They also serve desserts like affogato and ice cream. 1532 Dundas St. W.
3. Cassius Cucina Contemporanea
Cassius Cucina Contemporanea has officially opened in Toronto’s Fashion District, bringing contemporary Italian dining to King Street West. Founded by industry vets Pat Lisi and Bruno Commodari, the 150-seat restaurant blends bold design, warm hospitality, and top-tier Italian cuisine. Executive Chef Michael Frigo, originally from Bassano del Grappa, leads a menu rooted in tradition and innovation—think delicate capasanta and rich pappardelle. The space, designed with luxury and edge, includes an art gallery and tailor shop upstairs. 624 King St. W
4. Heaven Turkish Cuisine
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Thornhill just got a major flavour upgrade with the arrival of Heaven Turkish Cuisine at Yonge and Clark. This cozy new spot is serving up all the Turkish classics—grilled kebabs, creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, spicy acili ezme, and crisp lahmacun—alongside sweet treats like künefe and trileche. 7330 Yonge St., Thornhill
5. Lambo
Lambo in North York is all about doing one thing really well: spit-roasting meat the old-school way. Their lamb—whether it’s shank, neck, shoulder, or ribs—is smoked low and slow until it’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavour. Every order comes as a full meal with 14 house-made sauces, seven fresh salads and apps, rice, a drink, and dessert. 8 Kingsdale Ave. North York
6. Muse Bistro + Bar
Muse Bistro + Bar, located in the newly opened TOOR Hotel, offers a two-level dining experience that combines sleek design with French-inspired cuisine. Designed by Mackay Wong, the space blends modern elegance with casual sophistication. The menu, curated by The Fifteen Group, features dishes like Basque Style Benedict for breakfast and Truffle Mushroom Risotto or Entrecote for dinner. The first floor is perfect for relaxed dining, while the upper room invites a more indulgent, elevated experience. 203 Jarvis St.
7. Amber Kitchen & Coffee
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Amber Kitchen & Coffee has officially opened its doors in Riverside, bringing warm vibes, stellar coffee and chef-driven brunch to the former Boxcar Social space on Boulton Ave. Run by brothers George and Abraham (previously of Parallel on Geary), the café is already drawing in locals with its inviting energy and thoughtful menu. From creamy corn polenta with mushrooms and truffle oil to crispy sourdough avocado toast with a poached egg, every dish is full of flavour and comfort. Paired with smooth coffee from Ethica Roasters, it’s the perfect neighbourhood spot to cozy up, catch up with friends, or simply slow down. 4 Boulton Ave.
8. Alfie’s Sandwiches
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Alfie’s has finally opened its doors on Baldwin Street, and yes, the sandwiches are worth the hype. Billed as Toronto’s next great Italian sandwich shop, the menu leans meat-heavy for now—think cured meats, slow-cooked fillings, and seriously good sourdough—but vegetarian options are on the way. It’s more than just a sandwich counter, too: Alfie’s stocks premium pantry staples like artisanal pasta, sauces, house-made condiments, and fancy dairy. Open daily (except Mondays) from 11 to 7, it’s part lunch spot, part boutique grocer, all wrapped up in one sharp little package. 36 Baldwin St.
9. The Original Hot Chicken
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The Original Hot Chicken has landed in Toronto, opening its first Canadian location at 20 Carlton Street. Known for its pickle-brined, cornflake-crusted Nashville-style hot chicken, the U.S.-based chain brings the heat—literally—with custom spice levels and its signature Comeback Sauce. The 900-square-foot spot caters to both dine-in and takeaway crowds, wrapped in graffiti-splashed walls and a bold, fast-casual vibe. The menu sticks to the hits: sandwiches, tender baskets, wings—now made with halal-certified proteins. 20 Carlton St.
10. Paper Route Cafe
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Paper Route Café, opened by Jill and Julian, is the kind of neighbourhood spot that feels like it’s been there forever. Tucked into a light-filled space with pale wood and a soft energy, it’s built on the idea of connection—between people, over stories, coffee, and warm baked goods. The menu leans simple but thoughtful: croissants, cookies, muffins, and quiches, plus “Fancy Sandwich Fridays,” where things get a little nostalgic (think grilled chicken and havarti or ham and cheese with grape chutney). It’s low-key, lovely, and the kind of place you’ll wish was on your block. 462 Kingston Rd.
11. Tulum Mexican Restaurant
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Tulum Mexican Restaurant, opened in early March, succeeding the former Casa Mezcal restaurant. With two floors — the lower level operates as a restaurant, while the upper is reserved for late night entertainment and dancing — the space is intimate and exciting, and a welcome addition to one of Toronto’s buzziest neighbourhoods. Headed by Carlos Reyes Munoa, head chef, and Fernando Reyes, sous chef, the menu features fan favourite Mexican dishes, including shareable starters like guacamole, aguachile, empanadas and nachos. For main courses, guests can choose from various tacos like rib eye, al pastor, barbacha, Baja fish and jicama. In-house moles and specialties, like the volcanic stone are also on offer, along with a few desserts. 291 King St. W.