A stack of nanaimo bars in Toronto Canada on a dark background, highlighting Toronto's culinary scene.

Exploring Toronto’s Culinary Scene

by | Canada, Culture, Food

Must Try Foods When Visiting Toronto

If you’ve ever been to Toronto, you know it’s a vibrant city that never disappoints. There is something for everyone, no matter where you go. The same goes for the culinary scene—it’s truly a foodie paradise! From classic Canadian dishes to diverse international cuisines, here are some of the best foods to try in Toronto.

Poutine

Ah yes…poutine. This Canadian dish is an absolute must-try when you visit Toronto! It’s made up of French fries covered with cheese curds and gravy—a combination that results in one incredibly tasty snack! There are dozens of poutine restaurants throughout the city—from classic fast food joints to gourmet eateries—so no matter your budget or preference there will be something perfect for you!

Toronto-Style Pizza

Toronto-style pizza is a unique combination of Greek and Italian influences; it’s not quite like anything else on the planet! The crust is thick, chewy, and crunchy, while the toppings are usually traditional Italian fare like pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives. The most distinctive thing about it though? The generous helping of cheese smothered across the top.

Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo bars may have originated in Nanaimo, British Columbia but they have become synonymous with Canada as a whole. These delicious treats consist of three layers: a graham cracker crumb base topped with a creamy custard layer and finished off with a decadent chocolate ganache topping. They can be found in bakeries across Canada but if you’re looking for a truly unique experience in Toronto, visit one of the city’s many artisanal bakeries that specialize in these delectable desserts.

Beaver Tails

This beloved Canadian dessert originated in Ottawa but can now be found throughout the country—including Toronto! These deep-fried dough pastries are usually served with a variety of toppings like chocolate, cinnamon sugar, and applesauce. You can even get creative and add your own topping combinations!

Butter Tart

This classic Canadian pastry is made from butter, sugar, syrup or molasses, and eggs baked together into a flaky tart shell. The tart is often filled with raisins or walnuts for an added crunchy texture and sweetness. You’ll find numerous variations of this treat throughout Toronto—from plain tarts to large slices with multiple fillings!

Khao Soi

This Thai noodle soup is bursting with flavor! Khao soi has become increasingly popular in recent years and can be found at many different Thai restaurants around the city. The dish typically consists of egg noodles served in a coconut curry broth with pickled cabbage, fish sauce, lime juice, cilantro, shallots, and chili oil – yum!

Butter Chicken

Toronto has no shortage of fantastic Indian eateries, and butter chicken is one of their signature dishes. This creamy tomato-based curry is slow-cooked with chicken and served over basmati rice or naan bread – it’s an absolute must-have dish while visiting Toronto!

Tourtiere

Tourtiere is a French-Canadian dish made up of minced pork or beef combined with spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, then baked in a pastry crust. It’s often served during the holidays but can be found year-round at many restaurants in Toronto. If you’re looking for a hearty meal guaranteed to fill you up, tourtiere is definitely worth trying!

Smoked Meat Sandwiches

If you’re looking for an iconic Canadian sandwich, then look no further than smoked meat sandwiches! Smoked meat sandwiches are made with slow-smoked beef brisket that’s been seasoned with spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. The beef is then piled onto rye bread with mustard and pickles for an unforgettable flavor combination.

With so much amazing cuisine to choose from, exploring Toronto’s culinary scene is sure to be an adventure! Whether you’re looking for classic dishes or something more adventurous, there’s something for all tastes in this vibrant Canadian city. So take some time while visiting Toronto to sample some local fare and find out why this destination has become such a popular destination among food lovers around the world! Happy eating!

If you are also looking to explore Montreal, take a look at this article. 

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