It’s no surprise that Toronto is home to countless incredible restaurants as a melting pot of cultures converge, from Michelin star-awarded hot spots to affordable hidden gems.
With new dining destinations popping up constantly, you’ll never run out of places to eat in the city. Earlier this month, Air Canada released their annual compilation for the Best New Restaurants 2024, highlighting 30 nominees which showcase exceptional culinary talent from coast to coast.
Air Canada’s Best New Restaurants list is the only national restaurant ranking based on a single, anonymous reviewer who embarks on a cross-country journey to dine at various establishments.
Drawing from the recommendations of a panel of food experts across Canada, this undercover reviewer samples offerings from notable new openings. These restaurants now compete for the prestigious Top 10 list, which will be revealed on November 4, 2024.
“We’re thrilled to shine a light on Canada’s emerging culinary talent through Air Canada’s annual Best New Restaurants list,” said Andy Shibata, Vice President, Brand, Air Canada.
“Food is an important part of culture and heritage, and by sharing the very best of Canada’s creative culinary scene, we hope to inspire people to seek out great food experiences across our country. In doing so, we are proud to celebrate the best of Canadian talent and support the vitality of Canada’s restaurant and hospitality sector.”
The 2024 selection honours restaurants that have opened between late spring 2023 and May 31, 2024, excelling in culinary creativity, food quality, and service.
Out of this year’s 30 nominees, the following six Toronto-based restaurants made the cut:
- Bar Prima: A chic and intimate spot offering creative cocktails and contemporary Italian-inspired dishes in the heart of Toronto.
- Conejo Negro: A trendy eatery known for its inventive Latin American cuisine, blending vibrant flavors with a modern twist.
- Contrada: Bringing refined yet approachable Italian dining, Contrada emphasizes fresh, local ingredients with a sophisticated flair.
- Martine’s Wine Bar: Offering a cozy atmosphere and a well-curated wine list, Martine’s pairs its wines with small plates designed for sharing.
- Mhel: A Filipino-inspired restaurant that celebrates bold flavors and traditional dishes with a modern edge.
- Takja BBQ House: Serving up mouth-watering Korean barbecue, Takja is perfect for those seeking a unique and flavorful dining experience.
Visit Air Canada’s website here to see the complete list of nominees for 2024.