Toronto is a food lover’s paradise, brimming with an incredibly diverse culinary scene that spans every corner of the globe. Indian food, with its bold flavours, rich spices, and deep history, holds a special place in the city’s heart.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Toronto offers an Indian dining experience for every occasion, from fine dining to casual street food.
If you’re craving a hearty butter chicken, a fragrant biryani, or a sizzling dosa, Toronto has some of the best spots to indulge in these iconic dishes.
But with so many options, where do you start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into the best Indian food Toronto has to offer and discover some must-try dishes and top restaurants where you can savour the flavours of India right in the heart of Canada’s most vibrant city.
And if you’d prefer to skip the wait at restaurants, here’s a secret: you can enjoy authentic Indian food made fresh right in your home by booking an Indian private chef in Toronto.
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Why is Toronto a hotspot for Indian food?
Toronto’s Indian food scene is influenced by the city’s large South Asian community, which is one of the largest in North America. This rich cultural presence has led to a dynamic and diverse Indian food landscape, from authentic home-style cooking to innovative fusion dishes. From the bustling streets of Little India (in the Gerrard India Bazaar) to high-end eateries and trendy Indian fusion spots, Toronto truly has something for every palate.
Toronto is also home to a mix of traditional and modern takes on Indian cuisine. The city’s chefs have expertly blended old-world recipes with fresh, local ingredients, creating a menu of experiences that are both comforting and innovative. No matter the occasion – a cozy date night, a family celebration, or a quick lunch on the go, you’ll find the perfect spot to indulge in this beloved cuisine.
Where to eat Indian food in Toronto? Our favourite spots
The city is home to a fantastic range of Indian restaurants, from Michelin-recognized fine dining to casual and modern eateries. Here are some of the top spots for Indian food in Toronto:
Pukka
For a modern twist on classic Indian dishes, Pukka is a must-visit. Located at St Clair Ave West, this chic restaurant brings Indian cuisine to new heights with stylish cocktails and unique dishes like tandoori octopus and lamb lollipops.
The sophisticated ambiance and creative presentations make it perfect for a date night or special occasion.
The Host Fine Indian Cuisine
Located in Downtown Toronto, The Host specializes in Mughlai-style dishes and offers a refined dining experience. Their flavourful, spice-rich curries and clay oven tandoori specialties make this restaurant a great choice for anyone looking for an elegant and traditional meal.
Banjara
For a lively, trendy atmosphere, Banjara in the heart of Toronto is the place to go. This bustling restaurant serves up flavourful dishes with a modern flair, and it’s popular with younger crowds who enjoy vibrant street-food-inspired plates.
Adrak Yorkville
Located in the upscale Yorkville neighbourhood, Adrak Yorkville offers a refined dining experience that blends traditional Indian flavours with contemporary techniques.
The restaurant is renowned for its elegant ambiance and innovative dishes, such as the Rani Kachori, a modern take on a classic chaat. Adrak has been recognized by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional cuisine and service.
Bar Goa
Located in Toronto’s Financial District, Bar Goa offers a refined dining experience with a focus on Goan and coastal Indian cuisines. Helmed by Chef Hemant Bhagwani, the restaurant features a seven-course tasting menu that blends traditional flavours with contemporary presentations.
Dishes like Goan prawn curry and Punjabi goat shank showcase the rich culinary heritage of India. The ambiance is chic and intimate, making it ideal for special occasions.
Aanch
Situated near the CN Tower, Aanch is known for its modern take on Indian cuisine. The menu offers a variety of regional dishes, from the fiery vindaloos of Goa to the deep-fried chicken 65 of Chennai.
The restaurant’s stylish and tranquil setting complements its innovative dishes, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Dil Se
Located in the Roncesvalles neighbourhood, Dil Se offers a cozy atmosphere with a menu that highlights northern Indian cuisine. Signature dishes include paneer lababdar, a Mughlai-style specialty, and vegetable biryani. The tandoor offerings, such as lamb seek kebab, are also highly recommended.
The restaurant’s attentive service and flavourful dishes have earned it a spot in the Michelin Guide.
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Indian Street Food Company
For a more casual dining experience, Indian Street Food Company brings the vibrant flavors of Indian street food to Toronto. Located on Bayview Avenue, the restaurant offers a variety of regional dishes, including chaats and thali platters.
The menu is designed to provide an authentic taste of India’s diverse culinary landscape.
Tamarind Modern Indian Bistro
Situated in Mississauga, Tamarind Modern Indian Bistro offers a contemporary dining experience with a menu that blends traditional Indian flavours with modern techniques. Dishes like lamb Roganjosh and paneer cooked in a rich onion and tomato sauce showcase the depth of Indian cuisine.
The restaurant also offers unique items like Chettinad chicken tacos.
Guru Lukshmi
Located in Mississauga, Guru Lukshmi is a renowned South Indian restaurant known for its extensive dosa offerings. From traditional masala dosa to innovative variations like Nutella and M&M’s dosa, the restaurant offers a unique take on South Indian cuisine.
The vegetarian menu is a hit among patrons, and the restaurant’s popularity often requires reservations.
Must-try Indian dishes in Toronto
Indian cuisine is known for its stunning array of flavours. From the rich, creamy gravies to the crisp, fiery street food snacks, every dish offers something special.
Here are five must-try Indian dishes to savour in Toronto:
- Butter Chicken
Probably the most famous Indian dish worldwide, butter chicken (or murgh makhani) is the ultimate comfort food. Toronto offers some of the best renditions of this rich, creamy tomato-based curry. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor and simmered in a silky sauce made with butter, tomatoes, and cream.
Pair it with naan or fragrant basmati rice for a satisfying, flavourful experience.
- Biryani
No Indian food adventure is complete without biryani, a flavourful rice dish layered with aromatic spices, marinated meat (chicken, lamb, goat), and garnished with caramelized onions.
The dish is typically slow-cooked to let all the flavours blend together, creating a rich, fragrant experience.
- Masala Dosa
A beloved South Indian dish, masala dosa is a crispy, paper-thin crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, filled with a spiced potato mixture.
Served with coconut chutney and sambar (a tangy lentil-based stew), it’s the perfect light yet hearty dish.
- Samosa
Perfect for an appetizer or street-side snack, samosas are deep-fried triangular pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes minced meat. Crispy on the outside and savoury on the inside, they’re usually served with tamarind chutney or mint chutney.
- Pani Puri
If you’re craving something fun, pani puri is an irresistible street snack. These crispy puris are filled with spicy mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and onions, then dunked in tangy tamarind water spiced with mint and chili. Each bite delivers a burst of spicy, sour, and sweet flavours that will have you hooked.
Would you rather stay in? Hire a private Indian chef in Toronto
If you prefer to skip the restaurant lines and enjoy a personalized experience at home, why not book a private chef? With Take a Chef, you can hire a professional chef who will prepare a customized Indian menu tailored to your preferences, right in your home.
Whether it’s a cozy date night, a special celebration, or just a night in, having an Indian food feast made fresh for you at home is an experience like no other. Forget about the hassle of waiting for a table, let our private chefs in Toronto come to you.
Toronto is a hub for some of the best Indian food you’ll find outside of India. From authentic street food to Michelin-recognized fine dining, the city offers something for every palate. Whether you’re enjoying a classic butter chicken, sharing a hearty biryani with friends, or indulging in modern fusion dishes, Toronto’s Indian food scene will leave you craving more.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a flavourful, aromatic meal, head to one of these top spots or book a private chef to bring the flavours of India straight to your dining room.
