Exploring the vibrant and historic Distillery District in Toronto offers an array of culinary delights for food enthusiasts. From cozy cafes to upscale dining establishments, visitors can indulge in a variety of international cuisines and flavors. Whether craving a leisurely brunch or a romantic dinner, the Distillery District has something to satisfy every palate.
For those seeking recommendations on the best restaurants in Distillery District, Toronto, look no further. Below is a curated list of the top dining establishments in the area, offering delicious meals, exceptional service, and unforgettable dining experiences.
Embark on a culinary journey through the Distillery District and discover the best restaurants that will leave you coming back for more.
To put together this guide to restaurants in Toronto, we looked at what each business really focuses on, how its customers rate it over time and what it shows about its work on its own channels. The order is ours and we review it regularly.
Featured positions are clearly marked and only offered to businesses that already earned their place in the guide.
Pick one to read the short summary below.
#1French bistro dining
Brunch and desserts
Cocktails and tea selection
French bistro dining, brunch and desserts give Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie several ways to fit into a day in Toronto. Its European-style interior and upmarket setting suit a romantic meal, while the cocktail menu and tea selection offer options whether you stop for dinner or something sweet.
#2Mussels and crab cakes
Oysters and other seafood
Live music
Seafood anchors the menu at Pure Spirits, with oysters, a mussels hot appetizer and crab cakes among the choices. Live music adds another reason to settle in for a meal in Toronto, and the setting suits both a romantic dinner and a gathering with family.
#3Chicken katsu udon
Poke bowls
Vegetarian and late-night options
Chicken katsu udon, karaage and poke bowls are among the dishes at BOKU Japanese Eats + Drinks in Toronto's Distillery District. The menu includes vegetarian options and late-night food, while tea, cocktails, beer and wine give diners a choice of drinks for lunch or dinner in its warmly lit setting.
#4Wedding ceremonies and receptions
Indoor event space
Outdoor courtyard
Archeo hosts wedding ceremonies, receptions and other special events in Toronto's Distillery District, with both indoor space and an outdoor courtyard. Its intimate, romantic setting and food offerings make it relevant to readers planning a celebration, with the choice of spaces helping them picture how the occasion could take shape.
#5Fish, beef and chicken tacos
Margarita flights
Guacamole and churros
Tacos at El Catrin Destileria include fish, beef, chicken and potato fillings, alongside dishes such as roasted cauliflower, an octopus sandwich and Pastel Azteca. This Mexican restaurant in Toronto also serves guacamole and churros, with margarita flights and cocktails including the Smoky Luna adding options for a meal with drinks.
#6Spanish tapas and small plates
Organic and vegetarian dishes
Late-night food
Spanish dishes with a modern twist shape the menu at Madrina Bar y Tapas, where small plates sit alongside organic dishes and vegetarian options. The cosy, upmarket Toronto setting suits a meal with cocktails or wine, and food is available at lunch, dinner and late at night. Reservations are required.
#7Cocktails and food
Shrimp roll and grilled cheese
Wedding and event hosting
Cocktails are a focus at SpiritHouse Toronto, with food choices including a shrimp roll and grilled cheese for those who want something to eat alongside their drinks. The bar has several seating options, including outdoor seating, and also hosts events such as weddings, extending its use beyond an evening visit.
#8Vegan and plant-based options
Late-night pizza
Lunch and dinner
Panago Pizza includes vegan and plant-based choices on its pizza menu, making it an option for diners looking for those alternatives in Toronto. Its casual setting covers lunch and dinner, with late-night food also available. Delivery offers a practical way to have pizza without sitting down for a meal.
#9Brewpub wings and loaded nachos
Fish and chips
Selection of beers
Brewpub wings, loaded nachos and fish and chips feature among the food choices at Mill Street Brewpub in Toronto's Distillery District. A selection of beers accompanies the menu, and the casual, cosy atmosphere suits getting together with friends or family over a meal and drinks.
#10Housemade sauces
Sandwiches, salads and poutine
Seasonal food offerings
Housemade sauces share the appeal with prepared food at Wildly Delicious Fine Foods in Toronto's Distillery District. Sandwiches, salads and poutine offer choices for a meal, while a bagel with bacon, aged cheddar and fig/cranberry compote gives a more specific taste of the selection. Seasonal offerings add to the grocery and bistro-style format.
#11Margherita pizza slices
Garlic butter on crusts
Caputo American special flour
District Pizza serves pizza made with Caputo American special flour, with margherita slices among the choices and garlic butter or garlic oil noted on the crusts. The casual, family-friendly Toronto restaurant offers lunch, dinner and dessert, making it an option for a slice or a sit-down pizza meal.
| # | Business | Rating | Reviews | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie | 4.3 | 4,625 | French dining and brunch |
| #2 | Pure Spirits | 4.3 | 1,906 | Seafood meals with live music |
| #3 | BOKU Japanese Eats + Drinks (Distillery District) | 4.3 | 1,323 | Japanese meals and late-night food |
| #4 | Archeo | 4.3 | 553 | Weddings and special events |
| #5 | El Catrin Destileria | 4.2 | 7,783 | Tacos and margarita flights |
| #6 | Madrina Bar y Tapas | 4.2 | 1,805 | Spanish small plates and cocktails |
| #7 | SpiritHouse Toronto | 4.2 | 341 | Cocktails with a bite |
| #8 | Panago Pizza | 4.2 | 284 | Plant-based pizza choices |
| #9 | Mill Street Brewpub Distillery District Toronto | 4.1 | 4,358 | Beer and pub food gatherings |
| #10 | Wildly Delicious Fine Foods - Distillery District Location | 4.0 | 245 | Gourmet groceries and lunch |
| #11 | District Pizza | 4.0 | 214 | Casual pizza slice meals |
Discover a wide variety of drool-worthy delicacies in Toronto's premier gastronomic destination. The Distillery District offers a smorgasbord of unique eateries waiting to be explored. This comprehensive map marks all the must-visit restaurants, serving everything from sumptuous steaks to the finest vegan cuisine. Savour the city's best culinary delights right here!
The Distillery District in Toronto is home to a variety of top-notch restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include Cluny Bistro, El Catrin, Pure Spirits Oyster House & Grill, and Archeo. These eateries offer a diverse range of cuisines, from French bistro fare to Mexican specialties, ensuring that visitors have plenty of options to choose from. For those who enjoy Italian cuisine, Cacao 70 and Pasta Pantry are highly recommended. If you're in the mood for a quick bite or a refreshing drink, Balzac's Coffee Roasters and Mill Street Brew Pub are great choices. With its bustling food scene, the Distillery District is a foodie's paradise that promises a memorable dining experience.
Yes, the Distillery District has several vegan-friendly restaurants that cater to plant-based diets. One popular option is Arvo Coffee, which offers a range of delicious vegan snacks and beverages. Another favorite among vegans is Roselle Desserts, known for its delectable vegan desserts made with high-quality ingredients. For those craving a hearty vegan meal, Pure Spirits Oyster House & Grill offers a separate vegan menu featuring dishes like vegan poutine and falafel burgers. Whether you're a vegan or simply looking to try something new, the Distillery District has something for everyone.
Most restaurants in the Distillery District accept reservations, especially during peak hours and on weekends. It's recommended to book a table in advance, especially if you're planning to dine at a popular restaurant or visiting during a busy time. Many eateries offer online reservation options through their websites or popular platforms like OpenTable. If you prefer to make a reservation over the phone, the restaurant staff will be happy to assist you. Keep in mind that some restaurants may have limited seating due to current restrictions, so it's best to plan ahead and secure your reservation to avoid any wait times.
The Distillery District is a great destination for families looking to enjoy a meal together in a bustling and vibrant atmosphere. Many restaurants in the area welcome families and offer kid-friendly menus, making them a perfect choice for a family outing. Some family-friendly options in the Distillery District include Mill Street Brew Pub, Cluny Bistro, and El Catrin. These eateries offer a relaxed environment and a variety of dishes that are sure to appeal to both kids and adults. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal out with your loved ones, the Distillery District has something for every family to enjoy.
