Is there a neighbourhood more unique and vibrant in Toronto than Kensington Market? Along with a ton of vintage shops and independent boutiques, the multicultural market is known for its deliciously diverse and eclectic mix of food stops along the way. From a Jamaican and Italian fusion eatery to a spot serving up German comfort food, here are the best restaurants in Kensington Market.
10. Otto’s Berlin Döner
Stop into Otto’s Berlin Döner for two of Germany’s most-loved street foods: the döner and the currywurst. For the last seven years, this cozy spot has been churning out these made from scratch hearty snacks made using only the freshest ingredients. Choose from veal & lamb ($14), chicken ($13), halloumi ($13) or a vegetarian option and for the wurst there’s bratwurst ($11.50) and even a Beyond Meat version (12.50). 256 Augusta Ave.
9. Ozzy’s Burgers
If you’re on the hunt for a juicy burger, Ozzy’s on Nassau has a bunch of the over-the-top creations to satisfy your craving. On the menu is a serious selection of patties including The Breaking Baaad lamb burger ($13.99) or the Holy Cheesus ($13.99) with a hearty helping of deep fired mozzarella. There’s also a large selection of chicken and steak sandwiches, heaping sides like Philly cheese steak fries and hand-spun old-school milkshakes. 66 Nassau St.
8. Saigon Lotus
Saigon Lotus, a vegan Vietnamese restaurant, passionately blends traditional Vietnamese dishes with unique vegan offerings exclusive to Toronto. From the distinctive vegan pan-fried pho noodles to customizable fresh spring rolls, and renowned Vietnamese vegan specialties, this gem guarantees a fresh and distinctive experience in every dish. 6 St. Andrew St.Â
7. The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles
For some super flavourful fried chicken The Dirty Bird is a must. There are a bunch of gluten-free and halal friendly options like The ODB made with boneless dark meat on a buttered maple waffle with dirty sauce ($16.95) or, for a meatless option, try the No Fowl Play made with fried cauliflower ($16.95). 79 Kensington Ave.
6. El Rey Mezcal Bar
This tiny bar serving up a variety of Mezcal and Mexican eats comes from none other than restaurateur extraordinaire, Grant van Gameren (of Bar Raval and Bar Isabel). On the menu are tacos including the crispy squid ($14.45) and the cauliflower fajitas ($14.45) as well as Mexican faves including rojo, quesadillas and molotes. There’s also a wide selection of boozy beverages and even dessert like the tres leches cake. 2A Kensington Ave.
5. Rasta Pasta
Can’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. There’s also roti and a trio of grilled panini ($10) served with Rasta Pasta’s delicious coleslaw. 61 Kensington Ave.
4. Seven Lives
There’s extremely limited seating at Seven Lives, so people eat standing up. They do so quickly and armed with many napkins. After all, you can’t venture very far before the heaping Gobernador, the specialty taco with smoked marlin, grilled shrimp and cheese, starts to fall apart. Unput-downable for its flavour, texture and sheer heft, these tacos are unlike any other in an area bountiful with them. 72 Augusta Ave.
3. Grey Gardens
A visit to Kensington Market wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Jen Agg’s hot spot Grey Gardens. But beware, reservations might be hard to come by — back in the fall, the restaurant received Bib Gourmand designation by the Michelin Guide. If you’re lucky enough to get a table, there are plenty of plates to indulge in including the 7 layer trout roe dip ($60) or the panzotti made with chicken, garlic and vinegar ($24). 199 Augusta Ave.
2. Hawker
A new-ish kid on the Kensington Market block, Hawker is an upscale spot for plant-based small plates helmed by chefs Jeff Merkel and Leah Steduto. The menu takes inspiration from nature with appropriately named pretty-as-a-picture dishes including Starry Night ($15) made with biryani, smoked poblano and lavender and God’s work ($18) comprised of romano beans, pepper paste and pine nut. There’s also a selection of vegan wines and cocktails too. 291 Augusta Ave.
1. Sunnys Chinese
Sunnys Chinese, born from a successful pandemic pop-up, now stands as one of the city’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 China’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.