Toronto’s dining scene isn’t slowing down — this week alone brings ten new openings to check out. From a Michelin-trained chef turning out inventive small plates to a burger joint daring you to take on an all-you-can-eat challenge, these newcomers are serving up plenty of reasons to venture out. Here are the 10 best new places to try right now.
1. Big Way Hot Pot
Big Way Hot Pot, the viral DIY hot pot bar, has landed in Koreatown with a 2,600-square-foot space designed for both selfies and feasts. The pay-by-weight setup offers more than 100 premium ingredients, plenty for vegans and vegetarians, plus 10 signature broths ranging from tomato to spicy Malatang to collagen bone broth — all with vegan options. A made-to-order boba bar rounds it out. Think hot pot reimagined: quick, customizable, and just as good solo as it is with a crowd. 559 Bloor St. W.
2. The Frederick
The Frederick is the latest venture from LFG Growth Partners, the group that took over The Chase in 2022. At the helm is chef Cory Vitiello, now director of concept and culinary development, who’s built an all-day menu that leans both classic and fresh. Expect molasses and brown butter rolls, seasonal salads, handmade pastas and, for longtime fans, the return of the Harbord Room’s iconic burger — dripping in that unmistakable aioli. 10 Temperance Street, Ground Floor.
3. Bar Eugenie
Taking over the former Harbord Room space—most recently home to Piccolo Piano, which closed quietly in May— Bar Eugenie is bringing a fresh lineup of small plates rooted in Canadian ingredients. Expect dishes like kanpachi with Peruvian mint and cucumber, tagliatelle with sansho pepper and chili crisp, chorizo verde with onion gravy and pickled ramps, potatoes with crispy onion and harissa and fiolaro with pistachio pesto, capped off with chocolate cake and peach cobbler. Chef Rebekah Bruce (ex-Alo) says the menu reflects her life and cultural influences. 89 Harbord St.
4. The Cure
Nobu Hotel has a fresh new addition: a health bar, sister to The Morning After, designed to “reset, recover and begin again.” The menu balances wellness and indulgence with cold-pressed juices, functional lattes, wraps, salads, power bowls, smoothies and chia bowls. For those craving comfort, the “cheat” menu delivers a smash burger and a stacked four-cheese grilled cheese. Whether you’re detoxing or diving in, it’s all waiting at 19 Mercer St.
5. Gaia Burger
Gaia Burger is turning up the heat on Queen West with fusion smash burgers that go way beyond the basics. The all-halal menu runs from classics like the Simple 6ix and Route 66 Oklahoma to wildcards like the Jalapeño S’Berry (yes, that’s strawberry-jalapeño jam on a burger). Fries come Cajun, Greek, or loaded into messy bowls, and there’s even a truffle mayo twist. If you’re brave enough, their All You Can Eat Smash Burger challenge might just be for you. 671 Queen St. W.
5. Com Nuoc
Com Nuoc brings everyday Vietnamese meals to accessible, flavourful perfection. The menu centres on classic rice dishes like grilled pork or chicken with jasmine rice, pickles, fried egg and side soup, alongside chicken meatball rice and free-run chicken rice. Vermicelli noodles feature lemongrass tofu or grilled meats, while fresh spring rolls and chicken salad make light options. 639 Queen St. E.
6. Hoyra Gastrobar
Hoyra is an elevated Ukrainian gastrobar in Bloor by the Park, led by chef Tanya, the founder of the acclaimed Heavenly Perogy. Known for bringing Ukrainian cuisine to high-profile events, she now channels her expertise into dishes like herring with fingerling potatoes, shashlik, deruny, syrnyky and Georgian Ajarian Khachapuri. Paired with craft cocktails and select beers, the menu celebrates an abundance authentic flavours. 1566 Bloor St. W.
7. Everyside Social Eatery & Taphouse
Toronto’s Financial District just gained a new late-night spot with Everyside Social Eatery & Taphouse, open until 2 a.m. nightly. The menu focuses on shareable plates, including bang bang shrimp, summertime burrata, mushroom pizza, beef dip torta and satay chicken lettuce wraps. Sides like truffle fries and crispy smashed potatoes complement the mains, while desserts like dulce donuts provide a sweet finish. #100 – 120 Adelaide St. W.
8. Uncle Pete’s Bread Co.
Toronto’s Uncle Pete’s Bread Co. has moved from pop-up to permanent in Kensington Market, sharing a space with Dipped Donuts. Known for its freshly baked rosemary focaccia, the menu features sandwiches like the OG with mortadella, prosciutto, whipped lemon ricotta, chili crisp, and arugula, or the Pesto Pete with basil pesto and heirloom tomatoes. Focaccia bites, dips, and full loaves round out the offerings. 161 Baldwin St.
9. Chung’s Caribbean Hut
Chung’s Caribbean Hut brings Guyanese-Chinese fusion to the city with bold, flavour-forward dishes. The menu spans Caribbean-style fried rice and chow mein, from jerk chicken and pepper shrimp to house specials combining chicken, beef, and lamb. Appetizers include spring rolls, deep-fried wontons, and breaded shrimp, while mains feature curry chicken, goat, or shrimp served with roti, as well as sweet and sour or spicy stir-fries. 4205 Keele St., North York
10. The Carbon Snack Shop
This newly opened space at King and Spadina is a fast-casual spin-off from the team behind east-end heavyweight The Carbon Bar. It has a bright, modern interior and a spacious patio, so perfect for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner. Expect a full espresso bar, craft beer, tasty cocktails and a walk-up counter offering grab-and-go smoked-meat sandwiches, bowls of brisket, St. Louis-style ribs, salads and even breakfast items. If you’re short on time, the shop offers retail-ready packs of smoked meats, as well as sides like mac & cheese and pork & beans. Don’t leave without a box of Craig’s Cookies for dessert! 460 King St. W.
