Amid a flood of new eateries that open each week, a few manage to rise above the rest. From an upscale eateries featuring the freshest seafood to affordable spots dishing out comfort food, here are 11 of the best new restaurants to check out in Toronto this week.
1. Dopamina
Named after the neurotransmitter that floods your brain with pleasure, Dopamina, the new upscale Asian-influenced Mediterranean restaurant on Bay Street, aims to deliver exactly that — culinary euphoria. Dopamina soft opened earlier this month in the 50-storey Burano Condos at 832 Bay Street. Owner Gary, who’s no stranger to the restaurant scene in Markham, had his eye on this corner spot for years. Now, he’s brought his vision to life in a space framed by floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides and soaring three-storey-high ceilings — no wonder it was hard to resist. On the menu are dishes which Gary describes as igniting the “dopamine effect,” with items you can’t find elsewhere in Toronto. Such is the case for the Spanish octopus paired with the Malaysian laksa sauce, the cabbage-wrapped halibut served with a dashi reduction poured tableside and the bulgogi bone marrow beef tartare. 832 Bay Street.
2. Electric Piggy
Electric Piggy is a unique restaurant specializing in a blend of Vietnamese and Southern American BBQ. The menu features delicious items such as pork side ribs, mac & truffle cheese, and mini pho bo noodle soup. Everything is made in-house, including the sauces, using the chef’s own recipes. 8384 Woodbine Ave., Markham.
3. Hello Cupbop
Located inside Kachi in Chinatown, Cup Bop offers a variety of Korean BBQ bowls. Choose from options like LA short ribs, KFC, or vegetarian dishes and enjoy the taste of Korean BBQ in a convenient cup. 414 Dundas St W.
4. Jersey Mikes
A new sandwich spot has opened in Toronto! Jersey Mike’s, the popular New Jersey chain, has now set up shop in Markham. They’ve finally listened to our requests and brought their sandwiches to Canada. Watch as they slice your cold cuts fresh to order right before your eyes. For the best experience, try it ‘Mike’s Way’ with red wine vinegar, olive oil, tomato, onion and lettuce. 8600 Woodbine Ave., Markham
5. Holi Taco
6. Urban Maharajas
Earlier this month, this popular Indian restaurant announced a soft opening of their location on The Esplanade — patrons can dine on the most delicious Indian cuisines, including roasted butter chicken simmered in buttery flavoured gravy, boneless Rogan Josh lamb cooked in a thick, spicy gravy, or their aromatic Goan curry paired with fish or shrimp! 22 The Esplanade