Good Restaurants in Downtown (Toronto)

Hiro Sushi Restaurant

Master chef Hiro Yoshida is a hero in the world of Toronto sushi, and this restaurant is a direct reflection of his skills. Hiro combines modern technique, traditional ways and a touch of North American preferences to give his customers a culinary experience they won't forget. Patrons who know Hiro, choose to dine omakase style, leaving the timing and menu selection in the hands of the maestro. They are offered chunks of Fresh Salmon, Seared Tuna, Vinegar Mackerel and soft-shelled Crab seasoned with Ginger, Onion and spicy red Hiroshima seed.

Indian Rice Factory

Located in the Annex, east of Bathurst, Indian Rice Factory restaurant has been a culinary mainstay of the area for the past 30 years. The focal point is definitely a statue of Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom, who sits at the centre of the restaurant. Customers in the know suggest the Pakoras, onion, spinach and potato fritters mixed in a chickpea batter, deep-fried and drizzled with Tamarind Sauce. For an entrée, the Grilled Lamb Masalader, marinated and served in a Mint Sauce, gets the top vote.

Marcel's Bistro

Marcel's features authentic cuisine in an atmosphere that makes you feel as if Southern France had been brought to Toronto. The ambience is French bistro but the food is much more, making it the perfect place for either a light lunch or a full-course evening. Creations of the house include Omelettes du Jour and Pheasant Terrine. Dinner specialities include a Roast Lamb Tenderloin and Mixed Seafood in Pernod. Savor these with luscious wines served here, and end this delicious course with their delicious desserts.

Mr. Greenjeans

Located in the Eaton Centre, this three-level, 400-capacity "Great Eatertainment Centre" boasts of having served more than 20 million people in its 25-year existence. A speciality of the house is catering to group bus tours and corporate events. The restaurant has a large atrium and indoor garden that overlooks Trinity Square. The menu at Mr. Greenjeans offers more than 70 choices with special platters for large groups. Dishes include most of the pub grub fare such as BBQ Ribs and Wings, the Old Faithful signature burger with Buffalo Chips, and Chicken Fingers.

Duke of Gloucester

With high backed, plush red couches, burgundy wallpaper, pool tables, dartboards, soccer on the "telly" and 14 types of draft beer, there's no mistaking the authentic British pedigree of this pub at the Yonge-Bloor cross hairs downtown. There is live music every Saturday night and a weekly dart league for those whose aim is true. The traditional British cuisine is augmented with some creative Euro-twists. Tandoori chicken breast, roti mahn and hummus tapas live next to more conventional orders of fish and chips, steak and mushroom pie, and Irish stew.

Sage Cafe & Catering

Right in the downtown area of the city of Toronto, is a small walk-in café that specializes in freshly-made, nutritious lunchtime food. While the menu is primarily noodles, vegetables and homemade finger desserts, it is not strict vegetarian. Included are Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto Mayonnaise or Thai Peanut Sauce and a Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Feta.

Bistro 990

Don't look too surprised if you run into a Hollywood celebrity while dining in this charming bistro just off Ontario Legislative Building in downtown Toronto. It helps when your restaurant is the designated hot spot for the Toronto International Film Festival. While rubbing elbows with the glitterati, you can dine on classic bistro favorites such as Steak Frites with a Bordelaise or Roquefort sauce, or a Roasted Half Chicken with garlic mashed potatoes and herb jus. The unusually international wine list is one of the city's best, offering 32 wines and three champagnes by the glass. The last order is at 11pm.

Kensington Natural Bakery & Cafe

You definitely will not catch this Bloor and Bathurst restaurant using any genetically altered ingredients. This is a no-nonsense, low-fat, all natural cooking for the health conscious. Everything, including soups and salad dressings, is made from scratch, without sugar or preservatives. The décor is natural, nothing fancy, but solid and functional. As for the menu, Tofu Hamburgers, Bean Curd Hotdogs and Rice Noodle Lasagna are among the dishes. The combo special of Kensington Natural Bakery & Cafe is a choice of three, from a list of 16, vegetarian salads!

Deck 27

Located on the 27th floor of the Delta Chelsea in downtown Toronto, Deck 27, with its breathtaking view of the city, is ideal for that special occasion. At the same time, business people come to unwind here after a hectic day. You can catch the sunrise here too along with breakfast. While mostly a place to sip your favourite drink, there's a good bar menu too. Dishes include a smoked salmon plate, assorted cheese plate, chicken stir-fry and a pasta of the day!

Il Fornello

Located in the city's entertainment district, this is one of ten Il Fornellos in all. The ambience is perfect, with intimate tables close to the kitchen or bay-window terrace seating at the front. The made-to-order gourmet pizza may be Toronto's best and has been voted so on many occasions. This is not fast food, but wondrous creations from a wood-fired oven (thus Il Fornello). At the same time, Il Fornello is still a place where hockey game denim works as well as opera silk. Consult website for other locations. Il Fornello is open on weekdays from 11.30am and on Saturday from 4.30pm.

Matignon

Located in a three-level residential-style space just minutes from Toronto's Yorkville district, this French restaurant prides itself on treating customers with unassuming yet gentle grace. Featured is a cozy fireplace in a warm and friendly environment. The menu at Matignon celebrates the best of French cuisine without the pretension: Pan-Seared Chicken, Scalloped Salmon, Roast Rack of Lamb with Mustard or simply a 6oz New-York-style Steak with Fries. The best deal and a good introduction to French food would be the prix fixe dinner (including appetizer and dessert).

Savoy Bistro Lounge

Located across the street from the Canon Theatre, the Savoy Bistro Lounge offers classic French cuisine and cocktails in equal measure. Try the fillet mignon or steak frites - both memorable choices. As for wine, this was the very first Canadian restaurant honored with the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. After dinner, relax with a cocktail and cigar in the third-floor Belvedere Room.