The Best Organic Restaurants in Toronto

Reminiscent of a Parisian bistro, Union is situated in the hip neighborhood of West Queen West, and serves up organic, farm-fresh provisions. Chef Teo Paul spent years training in Europe, but honed his craft for organic natural ingredients on his family’s farm in rural Ontario. And with the slogan of ‘simple done right,’ it’s clear that the fresh seasonal ingredients shine among the dishes – such as their signature plate, Polenta Gratin, bursting with flavor from the rustic tomato sauce, braised greens and morbier (French cows’ milk cheese).

Offering Canada’s first large eco-conscious space, Cafe Belong encourages community and good food within its four walls. In a space wrapped in large, airy windows in Toronto’s Don Valley, visitors are encouraged to learn about sustainable harvesting techniques before indulging in a fully organic meal. While menus change seasonally, sourcing the highest quality ingredients is always top of mind. The artisanal cheese board is a local favorite, offering unique samples from Ontario farmers alongside in-season fruits, nuts and preserves. Cafe Belong also offers diners a free shuttle pick-up just north of Broadview subway station.

Leading the charge in sustainable practices, Farm’r Eatery & Catering is the first Toronto restaurant offering a reusable take-out container program. Located just beside the St. Lawrence Market, this farm-to-table eatery serves up organic food to go, all sourced and hand-selected from Ontario suppliers. Choose one main and two sides, with vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have time to spare on your lunch hour, settle into the bright, industrial space with a cold brew and watch the chefs at the food prep station.

This plant-based joint offers freshly made, protein-packed salads for Torontonians on the go. Found in Roncesvalles, The Goods sources their products directly from the Greater Toronto Area and promises food free of gluten, dairy, nuts and refined ingredients. Grab one of their colorful salad bowls, like the Tricky Tahini, topped with organic mung sprouts, cabbage and white quinoa. Those with no time to spare can purchase a grab-and-go smoothie packed with nutrients derived from kale, spinach, lemon and hemp.

While The Junction is an on-the-rise area, finding healthy, fresh alternatives can still be somewhat of a challenge. That all changed when The Beet opened up, offering homemade, healthy eats. The cheerful spot is scattered with colorful chairs and natural material furniture, such as sunflower seed shell tables, inviting guests to pull up a seat and enjoy a Farmer’s Harvest mixed salad or veg-friendly Verde sandwich. All ingredients – from eggs and cheese to meat – are certified organic and certifiably delicious.

Known as the original organic restaurant of Toronto, this vegetarian restaurant has held its own since 2002. From wraps and burgers to bowls, all ingredients are unprocessed, and most are left in their raw form for optimal flavor. Located in the Rathnelly district, Live Organic Food Bar also hosts a popular weekend brunch, serving up colorful, beautifully plated dishes, such as avocado toast and papaya smoothie bowls. No time for a sit-down meal? Live Organic also offers a selection of goods from Uber Eats, so you can enjoy fresh, organic eats from anywhere.

Nestled within local favorite Kensington Market, Hibiscus Cafe is famed for its wide array of sweet and savory options. Organic sandwiches, soups and salads can be found in abundance at this family-run hotspot, but it’s their signature buckwheat crêpes that keep customers returning time and time again. Indulge in fluffy, light crêpes topped with oozing dark chocolate or perhaps some brie cheese for a savory treat. For something lighter, the homemade mung bean milk ice cream or the vegan chocolate brownie.

It’s hard to leave LOV without a camera roll brimming with Insta-worthy shots. While this chain first took off in Montreal, it’s been equally well-received at Toronto’s King West location. The name LOV stands for local, organic and vegan – all the properties that sum up the plant-based dishes. Find dusty rose U-shaped banquettes for larger groups or mint-chip bar stools for those who want to grab an after-work tipple. Enjoy the artfully decorated wedge salad complete with vegan gorgonzola and edible flowers, while taking in the live plants dotted throughout the space.