You can ask anywhere about the most popular things in India. And I am sure food will always be one of them
Pragya, Canada Hustle
Any food lover must try the taste and aroma of Indian food in their life. And once you taste it you canโt resist asking for more. Call me biased, but Indian cuisine is unquestionably the best. Its flavours are diverse and alternate between sweet, savoury, and spicy. Do you know that even in Canada you can find many decent Indian restaurants? Here, I will talk about Toronto.
So, if you are also in Toronto, craving some spicy and pleasant Indian cuisine, relax. You will get that. Lucky for you, there are several Indian restaurants in Toronto where you can get delicious Indian food. Have a look at the best of them:
1. Utsav
The word Utsav comes from the ancient Sanskrit word, which means โfestival or celebrationโ. The reason I recommend this one is its fresh spices that add a unique flavour to each dish. Trust me, you will be fully satisfied with the varieties and taste buds of this place. All the foods served there are too delicious and mouth-watering. You must try the samosa, chicken tikka, or the onion bhaji. Many other Indian dishes are also available there.
Address: 69 Yorkville Avenue Road
2. Aanch
Sudhanshu Kumar is the man behind Aanch Restaurant. The owner and master chef of this restaurant, he has a degree in culinary management from Niagara College. To make contemporary palates, he perpetually looks for unique ingredients and prepares his spices.
The variety of Indian food is outstanding here: Chicken Biryani, Mutton Thali, Butter Chicken, Mutton Vindaloo, and Palak Paneer are some of the most delicious dishes of Aanch which you must try.
Address: 259 Wellington Street
3. Indian Roti House
Are you a roti lover? Then head to the Indian Roti restaurant where you will get a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Rotis. Wondering what is non-vegetarian roti? Well, visit this place and find out! Their non-veg roti selection includes Seafood Curry Roti, Tikka Masala Roti, Korma Roti, and my favourite, Butter Chicken Roti. Their vegetarian rotis are also equally delicious.
Address: 471 Church Street
The Canada Hustle team talked to Kevin Ashton, Seasoned Chef and Culinary Advisor at Restaurantji, about the uniqueness of dining at Indian restaurants in Toronto. Here is what he said:
โCultural ambiance. I have been to a few Indian restaurants in Toronto, and one thing that always caught my eye was the spectacular display of Indian culture in these establishments. Everything they do reflects the rich cultural heritage of India.
The traditional Indian music, dรฉcor, service ethos, and hospitality create an immersive Indian culture experience.
Cultural authenticity plays a crucial role in providing a sense of connection and comfort to Indian patrons while offering an exotic and educational experience for non-Indian patrons.
Indian restaurants contribute to Torontoโs culinary landscape and cultural diversity and to the cityโs reputation as a world-class dining destination. Toronto is widely known for its diverse culinary scene, and Indian cuisine is a significant part of it.
These restaurants also serve as cultural ambassadors, helping Canadians and people from other countries who live in Toronto understand and appreciate Indian culture.
They play a crucial role in integrating Indian cultural elements into the broader Canadian society and enriching the multicultural tapestry of Toronto.โ
4. Diwan
At Diwan, you will be charmed by the lavish decor of the dining room. The 19th centuryโs decorated wooden panel and modern dining space are handcrafted and printed in Damascus. I strongly recommend you to have a meal at Diwanโs patio, a.k.a. one of Torontoโs โprettiest patiosโ.
Their Chicken Biryani, Tandoori Chicken, Beef Rogan Josh, and Fattoush Salad are some customer favourites. I would recommend trying at least a couple of these delicious dishes and top it off with their yummy butterscotch ice cream.
Address: Aga Khan Museum, 77 Wynford
5. Kamasutra Fine Indian Restaurant & Banquets
Kamasutra is popular around the city for its signature dish โ Kamasutra Butter Chicken, which you must pair with their garlic naan. You can also try their Chicken Korma, Lamb Madras, Lamb with Naan, and Goanese, all of which are absolutely delicious.
I would also suggest you try some of the great appetizers here, such as Chicken Breast Pakora, Vegetable Samosa, Chicken Tikka Masala, Palak Panner, Dahi Vada Chaat, etc. And of course, how can you miss their impressive wine menu?
Address: 1522 Bayview Awe Leaside
6. Indilicious โ Fine Indian Cuisine
At Indilicious, Indian chef Sujoy from Kolkatta brings his exceptional culinary skills to Toronto. His talent is a complete blend of traditional and contemporary Indian dishes that have made him one of the finest curry chefs in Toronto.ย
The signature Chicken varieties are so delicious and give the flavour of homely cooking food.
Address: 3358 Dundas Street W
Adonis Ouano Icalina, Author and Culinary Entrepreneur at CarnivoreStyle talked to the Canada Hustle team about things that set apart the dining experience in Indian restaurants in Toronto from other destinations. Here is what he had to say:
โThe experience of dining at Indian restaurants in Toronto is truly unique and sets itself apart in many ways. First and foremost, itโs the authenticity of the food.
The spices, the flavors, the aromas โ they transport you straight to the heart of India. From the rich, creamy curries to the fiery tandoori dishes, every bite is a celebration of traditional Indian culinary artistry.
What also sets these establishments apart is the warm hospitality. Indian culture is deeply rooted in the principle of โAtithi Devo Bhavaโ, which means โthe guest is equivalent to Godโ.
This philosophy is reflected in the service you receive at these restaurants. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that you have a memorable dining experience.
Moreover, the ambiance of these restaurants adds to the overall experience. Many Indian restaurants in Toronto are adorned with traditional Indian decor, creating an atmosphere thatโs both exotic and comforting.
Whether itโs the vibrant colors, the soft glow of lanterns, or the soothing Indian music playing in the background, the ambiance complements the food and enhances the dining experience.
In terms of contributing to Torontoโs culinary landscape, Indian restaurants bring a wealth of diversity to the table. They introduce Torontonians to a cuisine thatโs vastly different from the cityโs mainstream food culture.
This not only enriches the cityโs culinary scene but also fosters a sense of inclusivity and multiculturalism.
Furthermore, these establishments contribute to the cityโs cultural diversity by hosting Indian festivals and events. Whether itโs Diwali, Holi, or Eid, these celebrations offer locals a glimpse into Indian traditions and customs.
This cultural exchange fosters mutual respect and understanding among Torontoโs diverse population.โ
7. Adrak Yorkville
If you want to experience a unique combination of traditions, innovation, and modernity; I recommend you the Adrak Yorkville. They have an experienced and talented culinary team that creates unique Indian-flavored dishes. Most recipes are from the South Asian region. And what could be better than having such delicious dishes in a stylish and spacious patio
Here at Adrak, you can enjoy the authentic, homely taste of classic Indian dishes such as Sarson Ke Phool, Paneer Parader, Saunfiyani Tikka, Nadroo Ki Shammi, Bharwa Malai Chaap, Amritsari Macchi, Bhatti Ka Jhinga, and much more.
Address: 138 Avenue Rd
8. Little India Food Bar
Since 1995, Little India Food Bar & Restaurant has been making their own spices and has not compromised on the taste and quality of the food.
I will tell you that you canโt miss their perfectly cooked creamy textured Palak Paneer. Itโs their most famous dish so you obviously have to try it! Also, if you are a non-vegetarian, you must have their Butter Chicken and Shrimp Vindaloo. For appetizers, try the Veggie Pakora.
Address: 255 Queen Street W
9. Leela Indian Food Bar
This restaurant has built a pretty high reputation due to its unique rice table-tasting menu, which allows you to taste various Indian dishes.
The most popular items here at Leela Indian Food Bar & Restaurant are the Lamb Chop, Garlic Prawns, Butter Chicken, and Chicken Tikka Taco.
Address: 3108 Dundes Street W
We interviewed Jennifer Silver, Dentist and Owner at Macleod Trail Dental, on her experience dining at Indian restaurants in Toronto. Here is an excerpt from the interview:
โAs a Canadian who loves Indian food, I find that Indian dining in Toronto is a treasure trove of flavors, aromas, and experiences that enrich the culinary and cultural scene in numerous ways.
The diversity of regional cuisines available in Indian restaurants across Toronto is truly remarkable. Whether Iโm craving the fiery spices of a North Indian curry or the subtle flavors of a South Indian dosa, thereโs always something to satisfy my palate.
This diversity reflects Indiaโs rich culinary heritage and adds depth to Torontoโs food landscape.
Many Indian eateries in Toronto strive to maintain authenticity in their dishes, using traditional recipes passed down through generations. At the same time, they often infuse innovation, adapting to local tastes and ingredients while preserving the essence of Indian flavors.
This blend of authenticity and innovation contributes to the cityโs diverse food landscape.
What I appreciate most about Indian dining in Toronto is the sense of community and hospitality that permeates these establishments. Whether Iโm dining at a cozy family-run restaurant or a bustling street food joint, I always feel welcomed and valued as a guest.
This sense of warmth and camaraderie adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience, making it about more than just the food on my plate.โ
10. Pukka
At Pukka, you will be overwhelmed with fresh and tasty food. My favourites are the deliciously baked Garlic Naan and whole wheat Roti served with creamy pistachio korma sauce. Other amazing dishes you can try here are Stuffed Paneer, Tandoori Chicken, Chicken 65, Beef curry, Lamb Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts, and the special Pukka Salad.
Address: 778 Street Clair West
So, if you are looking for some good, authentic Indian food in Toronto, I suggest you head to the above-mentioned restaurants. There is no doubt that these restaurants will serve you nothing but the best, keeping true to Indiaโs aromatic fresh ingredients mastered by some of the best chefs in the city.ย And eat an extra roti for us, will you?
Guest Author: Saket Kumar
Last Updated on May 29, 2024 by Saket
A overwhelming topic for every individual who lives away from our beloved India and are often homesick for their countries chole bhatore or phuchka or idli dosa. You have really mentioned in details for every homesick lovers a comfort hone to find a little bit of touch of their country. Well done.