The Top 10 Restaurants On The Danforth Toronto

Danforth, a growing Toronto community with new restaurants, hip cafes, and a diverse community may be known for its Greek restaurants, but that’s not all it has to offer. A multicultural hub, Danforth boasts local restaurants featuring cuisine from around the world. We list 10 of the best to try.

Astoria Shish Kebob House

Astoria has been on the Danforth for years and is just a short walk from Chester station. With a vast menu, featuring such fan favourites as pork souvlaki, to golden fried kalamari, there is something for everyone. A large grill can be seen from the outside, making for a very ‘barbecue artiste’ vibe. With large portions, Astoria is sure to satisfy your craving for Greek cuisine.

Pizzeria Libretto

Pizzeria Libretto has a menu full of options with authentic Neapolitan pizza. With pizza options such as Libretto margherita, Ontario prosciutto & arugula, or cremini mushroom, Pizzeria Libretto uses the finest local ingredients. From Monday to Friday, Pizzeria Libretto offers a lunch prix fixe menu. With thin crusts, toppings are the highlight of their pizza, amplifying the simple – yet, delicious – pizza base. Wood-burning ovens are the most traditional way to cook a pizza, and wood-smoked flavour adding an extra touch of Italian tradition.

Jean's Vegetarian Kitchen

Restaurant, Malaysian, Vegetarian, Seafood

Jean’s Vegetarian Kitchen is a veteran on the Danforth when it comes to vegetarian cuisine. In its 10th year, this restaurant is a hit for newcomers and regulars alike. Featuring Malaysian-Thai cuisine, Jean’s is all about authentic cooking. The organic Malaysian curry powder is even made in house. A truly veggie spot, Jean’s is also happy to adapt their menu to accommodate for any allergies or eating restrictions.

Maha's Fine Egyptian Cuisine

Restaurant, Egyptian, Wine, Beer, Cocktails

Maha’s serves up Egyptian brunches, lunches and early dinners

Maha’s may be a beloved brunch restaurant, but it seems more like a family kitchen with a warm ambience, and authentic Egyptian taste. With limited seating, Maha’s is a cozy spot, which adds to the feeling of a home-cooked meal. As a family owned restaurant, an interpersonal ambience flows through the room with traditional décor from Egypt. If Egyptian food is new to you, Maha’s is a perfect opportunity to explore the cuisine; start off your day with authentic Egyptian flavor.

Double Sushi

Double Sushi satisfies cravings on the Danforth deliciously. The simple decor is a brilliant reminder that at Double Sushi, the taste and presentation of their sushi is where it’s at. Try the spicy salmon roll, a favourite among regulars. Sushi lovers can either dine in, or get their sushi for takeout.

Local 1794

Bar, Restaurant, Canadian, Wine, Beer, Italian, Fast Food

A hip restaurant between Coxwell and Woodbine, Local 1794 offers daily specials, 24 beers on tap, and great food. With décor that gives off a handmade vintage vibe and television screen showing black and white films, Local 1794 has a classic, comfy ambience. This restaurant offers a unique menu including woodfired pizza, caveman game board (wild boar smoked sausage, smoked venison and elk biftekia), and fish tacos.

Simone’s Caribbean Restaurant

Restaurant, Jamaican, Caribbean, Vegetarian

Conveniently located near Pape station, Simone’s is a local Caribbean restaurant with authentic taste. With great price to portion ratio, a chance to fully try the menu is close at hand. For those warmer months, Simone’s has two patios at the front and back, with comfortable, outdoorsy seating. Simone’s menu offers the perfect balance between a home-cooked meal, and comfort food. If you’re in the area and craving Caribbean cuisine, Simone’s has you covered.

The Wren

Pub, Canadian, Pub Grub, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

A southern style restaurant, The Wren offers 12 local craft beers on tap. Entering feels like walking into an authentic American-Western restaurant, with a ranch-like vibe. The Wren offers brunch, and dinner. With a wagon wheel chandelier, it’s clear that a unique Western flair is present, and their menu certainly reflects that. Dinner specials are popular with regulars, try the southern fried chicken sandwich, or the pulled pork chimichanga.

Ha Gow Dim Sum House

Dim sum restaurants on the Danforth are a rare find, as most are in the downtown core. Thankfully, Ha Gow Dim Sum House is on the scene, offering the best dim sum on Danforth. The menu doesn’t need to offer an especially large range of dim sum, because the featured food is top-notch. If you’re a dim sum fan, Ha Gow Dim Sum House is a gem on the Danforth.

About the author

Kevin Siu

Kevin Siu, a Toronto native, is a teacher at an international college downtown teaching English as a second language. With a degree in English, Media Studies, and Linguistics from University of Toronto, he enjoys writing and learning about world culture.