Top 10 Restaurants Near The CN Tower Toronto

The CN Tower is a must-see attraction when visiting Toronto for the first time. However, when you get back down to earth, do your due diligence to avoid overly touristy dining spots. We list the top 10 restaurants nearby that will have you eating like a local.

Kit Kat Bar & Grill

Bar, Restaurant, Italian, Vegan, Vegetarian, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

A staple in the community for over 25 years and one of the first restaurants on the King Street row, Kit Kat serves up classic southern-Italian cuisine sure to rival any nonna’s home cooking. With an impressive collection of cat decor, movie memorabilia, and a tree growing in the middle of the kitchen, the eclectic restaurant is ideal for those seeking a unique dining experience.

Marben

Marben speaks to one’s inner Brit with its sophisticated ambiance. Menus change according to season as the focus of Marben is both fresh and local ingredients, though there is one thing that doesn’t change: the warmth of the service. Family sharing plates are also available for dinner service. http://instagram.com/p/-mHaP_Kj2t/?taken-by=marbenresto

The Badali

Bar, Restaurant, Italian, Fast Food, Vegan, Vegetarian, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

The Badali serves up ‘warm Italian hospitality’ at a affordable price. With staples like sharing antipasti plates and a lunch menu of pasta, pizza and paninis, The Badali is a sure choice. Family-run and operated since 1990, The Badali also provides Mirvish and Second City fit menus for a convenient night on the town.

Hunter's Landing

A solid staple of both locals and visitors, Hunter’s Landing is an open-concept venue with an exceptional wrap-around patio. The warm and cozy decor beautifully contrasts the industrial setting. In the heart of the Concord CityPlace community, Hunter’s Landing sets itself a part in a sea of stuffy corporate restaurants. http://instagram.com/p/BFJicwuObX7/?taken-at=143452701

Aria Ristorante

Aria is a neighborhood fave with its beautiful airy interior and a dynamic view of Maple Leaf Square. Another, more refined Italian option, Aria’s menu, crafted by Executive Chef Eron Novalski, includes local and sustainable ingredients, not to mention a 700-label wine list. http://instagram.com/p/xmKxaHRr2k/?taken-by=ariaristoranteto

iQ Food Co.

The ethos of iQ is simple: they aim to provide sustainable, good-for-you food with an attention to detail. Unlike most restaurants on the list, iQ is convenient for those looking for a quick bite. The menu is seasonal, with options like the purple haze or sparta boxes, which feature fresh veggies and grains with seasonal toppings. http://instagram.com/p/9q7eVIxGnK/?taken-by=iqfoodco

Corrado's

If ever visiting the city, chances are you’ve walked past Corrado sign, it is hard to miss. However, Corrado’s truly does serve up quality and wallet-savvy Italian and Greek cuisine. Its exceptional take-out menu includes options like pizza, souvlaki and gyros, panzerottos, and their classic sandwiches like veal or chicken cutlet, served on an Italian bun with tomato sauce. A must-try is their rice balls, or, Arancini, which come generously sized with a crispy exterior. http://instagram.com/p/BAunzM1Hq-q/?taken-by=corradosonjohn

PAI

PAI is a lively spot worthy of any visitor’s night in city. PAI is named after its Chef’s hometown; a nod to its authenticity, and is a more casual option to its sister restaurants Sabai Sabai and Sukhothai. PAI also delivers and takes reservations. http://instagram.com/p/BA8bRqeSOnf/?taken-by=paitoronto

Parlor Foods

Parlor Foods provides a sweet taste of Canadian living, with a dynamic seasonal ingredient-based menu with sharing plates, fresh and cured meats and drink list- showcasing craft cocktails and Toronto craft micro brews. Described as ‘down-to-earth fine dining’, Parlor Foods is perfect for enjoying a game or entertaining on the newly opened patio. Walk-ins and reservations are both welcome. http://instagram.com/p/BFNI4nMoqXx/?taken-by=parlorfoods

Maki My Way

Restaurant, Japanese, Sushi

Far from your average sushi restaurant, Maki My Way pushes the boundaries, allowing customers to customize the ingredients of their rolls down to the small details like toppings and wraps. With Signature Rolls, generous sharing platters/combos, as well as larger plates like Bento Boxes. Maki My Way provides the classics with a unique twist.

About the author

Stephanie Pereira

Born and raised in Toronto, Stephanie is currently completing her undergrad at Ryerson University in Professional Communication with a minor in Public Relations. Interested in all things beauty, when she isn’t scouring the nearest Sephora or lusting over her next travel destination, she’s producing online content for RAD Mag, Ryerson’s very own biannual publication covering the realms of Fashion, Image Arts, and Design. Follow her at @stephaniepereira on Instagram.