Best Italian Restaurants in Toronto 2024: Legendary by Locals
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This post will guide you through the best Italian restaurants in Toronto. These are the ones that are considered legendary by Toronto locals and not some random marketing “expert” or “food reviewer” for a publication writing just for views.
I can promise you that these are the ones that people who live here swear by. As part of my Legendary Status by Locals series I will continually update this page if there are new places that open that reach legendary status or if any of the ones listed here should sadly close (probably unlikely as there’s a reason they are legendary and have thus far stood the test of time).
I’ll also give you any of the secret dirt or “quirks” behind each of them that only the locals would know about.
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Best Italian Restaurants Toronto
Now this list of best Italian restaurants in Toronto are in no particular order, meaning that the restaurant listed as number 1 doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s better than all the rest.
They’re all just legendary in their own ways. I’ll be sure to list why they’re considered legendary and what their signature dishes are. So depending on what you’re craving you can decide which ones you want to visit based on each of their strengths and their weaknesses.
Terroni
Terroni is considered an institution in Toronto. They have multiple locations throughout the city, so you can usually find one that is conveniently located to you as well. Most of their menu is quite good. So if you want pizza, pasta, appetizers, or desserts they got you covered.
Some of their most popular items include the Tonarelli alla Norcina (truffle pasta basically), Tagliatelle alla Bolegnese, Spaghetti in Canna a Mare (seafood pasta), Frittura di Calamari (fried calamari), Burrata, and their pizzas. Honestly, you can’t really go wrong with most of their menu so just choose whatever you’re craving. They also have a gluten-free menu but you do have to request to see it.
And now for the dirt on this place. Terroni can also be extremely controversial amongst the locals. One of the things they are known for is not making substitutions. It’s even stated right on the menu that they will not make substitutions. They will not “hold the onions” even if you beg. I am serious. They do not care if it is your birthday. They do not care if you are allergic. They probably wouldn’t care if you were on your death bed and a substitution is one of your last dying wishes. They will tell you to order something else instead. Hence, their controversial status and rightfully so. They will also not cut your pizza into slices for you if you ask. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
The food is good though and they do offer a lot of options. They also own the well known restaurants Sud Forno, Spaccio, and Stock T.C so you’ll find a lot of the Terroni offerings available at their sister properties too, although maybe just a subset of the Terroni menu as these locations do have their own exclusive items as well.
So, as long as you’re willing to eat their food as-is you will be golden eating here.
Famiglia Baldassare
Famiglia Baldassare is actually more of a supplier. They make fresh pastas and sauces by hand and supply them to a select number of Toronto’s finest establishments.
They do however open for lunch to the public Wednesdays-Fridays between 12pm-2pm. Yes you ready that right, they are open for 3 days a week for only 2 hours each day to the public.
During this slim window of opening you can dine-in for lunch or do takeout. You can also shop their grocery offerings for their legendary handmade pastas that come fresh or frozen, condiments, Italian dry goods, and wines.
Let me tell you there will always be a line-up down the street for this place. It is absolutely worth it despite their incredibly annoying hours of operation and long lines.
Come as early as you can and request to dine-in. Their offerings change everyday depending on whatever they feel like serving but you can’t go wrong with a pasta dish or anything really. Check out their instagram to see what is is on the menu for the day. There are usually a few options for mains and appetizers. Their pasta is what makes them a local legend though so make sure you get one or all the pasta options.
La Palma
La Palma is located in Toronto’s trendy Trinity Bellwoods neighbourhood. It is not only a beautiful space, check out this post on cute restaurants in Toronto to see their beautiful interior, but also has amazing food. Not an easy feat to have both a beautifully designed space and good food at the same time
They are most famous for their 100 layer lasagna which is made with bolognese and mozzarella sandwiched between each layer and then topped with parmesan and basil that they fire torch until crispy. The torched top adds the perfect textural complexity with the soft layers of the lasagna. You’ll definitely understand why this is one of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto after having the lasagna.
While the 100 layer lasagna is without a doubt their signature dish, people also really enjoy their flatbread style pizzas and the charred broccolini.
Ardo
Ardo is located in Toronto’s King East neighbourhood. It’s a cozy spot, but make sure you check out their charming patio out back during the summer months.
The owner and chef of Ardo actually hails from another Toronto Italian local legend on this list, Nodo. They serve Sicilian style Italian cuisine here as a nod to the chef’s hometown.
When it comes to Ardo their seafood is where they really shine. Be sure to pick up their Polpo (octopus) and the acciughie (white anchovies on toast with roasted red pepper and mint).
If you’re looking to do pasta the salsiccia (orecchiette with spicy Sicilian sausage) or the tartufo (spaghetti, anchovy butter, parmigiano cheese, fresh black truffle) are pretty exceptional.
And if you’re looking to get your veggies in don’t miss out on the funghi, a roasted king oyster mushroom with porcini butter, parsley, chive, breadcrumbs. Or check out their sautéed rapini with fresh chilli and sweet garlic.
If you’re in the mood for pizza, personally I’d skip it from here. There’s much better pizza places in Toronto and the one here is just so-so.
Enoteca Sociale
Enoteca Sociale is one of the best restaurants for Italian food in Toronto. They’re especially known for their pasta and salumi. Of course this means that they make both the pasta & salumi themselves by hand and you can definitely taste it.
There are several dining options. You can sit at the bar and do the Chef’s table tasting that overlooks the open kitchen. Chef’s tasting at the bar is by reservation only and you’ll get a sampling of the chef’s choices. Wine pairings can be added for an additional fee.
You can also dine indoors or on the patio. Reservations for indoor dining and on patio are not required but definitely highly recommended since this spot is popular! You can order off the menu à la carte or request to do a chef’s tasting.
Of course the pastas are what you should be getting here as they really have some of the best pasta in the city. They’re also known for their salumi which is also made in-house, so don’t sleep on that either. Other favourite items here include the arancini balls, burrata, and the rapini.
Nodo
Nodo has multiple locations across the city and is often listed as one of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto by locals. In fact many will list Nodo is a favourite over the famed Terroni, especially by those who are particularly put off by what is considered to be Terroni’s pretentious attitude of refusing to do substitutions.
The menu at Nodo is especially geared towards pastas and pizza, aka the Italian staples. The drinks are also popular here, as is the foccacia. Finish off with a classic tiramisu or their sticky caramel bread pudding. Or both.
Sugo
Sugo is located in Toronto’s west end in the Bloordale Village neighbourhood. It’s a casual spot that serves up big and hearty portions. Exactly what you might imagine if you ate at your Italian friend’s house and their nonna was serving dinner.
The quality is great too. Their spaghetti is literally a mountain of spaghetti and a delicious mountain at that. You can add their giant meatball to the spaghetti mountain for an additional fee. Their rigatoni is also a favourite amongst locals and if you’re lucky they’ll also have their lasagna on special. Don’t forget the tiramisu, it’s very loved in Toronto and many will also vouch that it’s just as good, if not better than ones they’ve had in Italy.
Giuletta
Giulietta is high end Italian restaurant in Toronto. Locals consider this to be one of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto and their food definitely shows it.
In fact, Giulietta was voted as one of Canada’s 100 best restaurants. Despite all the praise and accolades they receive they remain unpretentious. Service is friendly, warm, yet professional.
It’s one of those places where you won’t be disappointed by anything on the menu. It’s also one of the few Italian restaurants that can not only do pasta & pizza, but also nail it when it comes to proteins like seafood and meats. The octopus, veal ragu, and tortelli ai funghi are especially well loved though.
It’s an extremely busy and extremely popular spot though and reservations are hard to come by which can be frustrating. Such is life when a place is this good though! Make sure you book at least month in advance or call ahead and hope there’s a cancellation.
Annette Food Market
Annette Food Market is located in Toronto’s Junction neighbourhood in the city’s west end. It is the ultimate definition of your local neighbourhood spot and is much beloved by many.
They are known for their three day aged sourdough wood-fired pizza, so it’s definitely something you’ll want to try. Other popular items here include the arancini, eggplant parm, and the porcini mushroom ravioli. They also do an amazing octopus and chicken supreme though if you’re going easy on the carbs.
They often feature local wines which are on rotation as well as feature seasonal cocktails. Of course, you can always order the classics too though.
Reservations are highly recommended, although they do accept walk-ins if you’re feeling lucky! And if you’re feeling a little sleepy and looking for some caffeine after the coffee shop attached next door, The Good Neighbour, is also owned by Annette Food Market.
Bar Vendetta
Bar Vendetta is an Italian pasta and wine bar located by Toronto’s Trinity Bellwoods Park. Despite being an Italian spot the interior is 1970s retro, yet somehow it works.
You’ll find handmade pastas here as well as a good selection of classic Italian dishes. Bar Vendetta does put its own unique spin on them though. The Crown Cacio e Pepe for example is a long strand of pasta stuffed with ricotta and then coated in lemon, butter, and black pepper sauce. It’s then twisted into a crown shape making the perfect twirl of pasta.
Other popular items here include their foccacia, tuna crudo with white beans, and the spaghetti pomodoro.
Something to note is that when you look up this place you’ll often see a lot of articles talking about their muffuletta sandwiches that are available in the afternoon. These sites are out of date though and the muffuletta sandwiches are no longer available, which is super unfortunate as they were amazing. If they decide to offer them again I’ll be sure to update it here.
Osteria Rialto
Osteria Rialto is located in Toronto’s Dufferin Grove neighbourhood. In terms of Italian restaurants in Toronto this spot tends to fly under the radar, but you don’t want to miss out on it.
It’s located inside the Paradise Theatre, a historic building with art deco architecture and design mixed with modern details. It’s one of the reasons by Osteria Rialto is also one of the cutest restaurants in Toronto. Check out the photos of the interior here.
Everything here is made in-house. The Mezzaluna pasta with braised lamb, english peas, and pecorinos is perfection, especially if you add truffles for an additional fee. Their house-baked foccacia is also a must try. You also won’t regret finishing off the meal with their chocolate hazelnut torta and a scoop of pistachio ice cream!
Piano Piano
Piano Piano is an upscale Italian spot located in Toronto’s Harbord Village area. It’s easily spotted with its pink exterior, giant floral mural, and arched doorways.
Piano Piano has long established itself as one of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto and a favourite amongst locals. They’re pasta is excellent, which is unsurprising since it’s made locally by Famiglia Baldassare (which also made this list above). This means that any pasta order from here is a very good idea, especially the egg yolk ravioli.
The bone-in veal is also drool-worthy and perfectly tender. You’ll also want to order the whipped ricotta. If you’re in a pizza mood they’ve got you covered there as well.
Don Alfonso 1890
Don Alfonso is located in the Westin Harbour Harbour Castle Hotel on the 38th floor. With floor to ceiling windows and panoramic views of the lake it’s really a breathtaking spot to dine on some of the finest Italian food in the world.
Yes, the world. It is not only one of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto, but Don Alfonso was actually named the best Italian restaurant outside of Italy by 50 Top Italy
In addition it’s headed up by Chef Alfonso Iaccarino and Chef Ernesto Iaccarino, both Michelin Star chefs.
Most people will opt to do the Signature Tasting Menu, which is considered to be a true culinary journey and masterpiece.
However, you can order à la carte as well. The pastas and seafood dishes are generally the favourites here.
Annabelle Pasta
Annabelle Pasta Bar is located is located in Toronto’s Davenport neighbourhood and is truly a local gem.
The catch with this place is that the menu changes daily. You can check out their instagram though to see what’s on the menu beforehand. You won’t be disappointed with their pastas though. They have 3 on offer daily as well as a few non-pasta options and a dessert option. They also make a really great negroni to go with your pasta.
Sotto Sotto
Sotto Sotto is located in Toronto’s ritzy Yorkville neighbourhood and is a favourite amongst locals and celebrities.
In fact Drake famously named Sotto Sotto as the best restaurant in Toronto and even name drops them in multiple lyrics in is chart topping hits. If that wasn’t enough there’s an entire wall with photos of famous famous that have dined there, like Oprah, Elton John, Brad Pitt, Natalie Portman, Johnny Depp….and that is just to name a few on the monstrous wall of celeb photos.
People here love the pastas, the lamb chops, and the classic tiramisu. If you’re lucky they may even have the option of the strawberry tiramisu which is a nice twist on such a classic.
Gusto 501 or Gusto 501
Gusto actually has two locations, one in the King West neighbourhood (called Gusto 501), and Gusto 504 which is located in King East. The menu is the same at both, but the vibe and interior differ. Gusto 501 is the newer of the two and the interior is really an architectural beauty. You can check out photos of the inside at my post on the restaurants with the nicest interiors in Toronto here.
Now for the truth about this spot. In that same post about the nicest interiors I also mention that I nicknamed this spot the “one dish wonder”. This is because they’re famous for one dish in particular – the Malfalde ai Funghi, a pasta with porcini, portobello, oyster mushroom, and truffle cream. It’s pretty much the only dish that stands out though, hence the name “one dish wonder”.
BUT I will say that one dish is absolutely sublime and a must try. So good, it’s enough to get them on the list as one of the best spots for Italian.
The only other dish there that I will give an honourable mention to is the kale salad, but I wouldn’t say it’s good enough to go there just for the kale.
As another option you can also visit their sister location Nervosa, which is located in the Yorkville neighbourhood and also has the same Malfalde ai Funghi dish on the menu.
Frankie’s Italian
Frankie’s Italian is the sister restaurant to Annabelle’s Pasta Bar which also appears on this list above.
Located in Toronto’s Leslieville neighbourhood this spot has delicious pastas, and especially the pizzas which are made from a 10 year old mother dough.
They also have an extensive negroni menu where they can serve it classic or with a twist like elderflower.
Osteria Giulia
Lorighittas Al Mare Hand Braided Pasta
Osteria Giulia is the sister restaurant to Giulietta listed above. Like it’s sister restaurant Osteria Giulia was also named one of the best restaurants in Canada by Canada’s 100 Best. And in addition to all that it was just recently awarded a Michelin Star. One of the very first restaurants in all of Canada to receive one.
Osteria Giulia really shines when it comes to their meats, seafood and pastas, so much so that you won’t find a pizza at this Italian spot.
You won’t miss having a slice though. Instead order their Lorighettas al Mare, a hand braided pasta with squid, scallops, chili, garlic, and anchovy. Other favourites here include the foccacia, and the crudo.
Be sure to save room for dessert too. The mille feuille is not only visually a work of art, but also blissfully delicious too.
Gia
Gia is located along Toronto’s popular Dundas & Ossington area and is a plant forward Italian restaurant. Plant-forward meaning that all their dishes are vegetarian or vegan. Although majority of the vegetarian dishes are able to be made vegan as well.
While the menu changes frequently people consistently rave about the pastas, the focaccia bread, and the olive oil cake.
You honestly won’t even miss the meat, not even if you’re a pure carnivore. Their vegan meatballs in the house made tomato sauce is absolutely sublime and the cocktails are just as nice.
It’s a must visit. It’s also hands down the best vegan spot but also just one of the best restaurants in Toronto overall.
Superpoint
Superpoint is actually one of the best pizza places in Toronto, and most people would automatically think of the pizza when they hear their name.
However, most people don’t realize that Superpoint actually has a full menu that includes pastas, salads, appetizer, and mains.
The trick though is that their full dinner menu is only available starting 5pm until closing time, whereas the pizza is available starting at 12pm when they open.
Of course you should try the pizza which they are most famous for, but you honestly would be missing out if you didn’t order one of their pastas as well. They’re to die for!
Eataly
Eataly is well established as a juggernaut across the globe and it can also be found in Toronto’s fancy Yorkville neighbourhood as well.
The Toronto location is absolutely massive. Sprawled over 3 floors it has a cafe, 4 dine-in restaurants, a market, a seafood counter, butcher, bakery, gelato shop, and two patios during the summer. It’s easy to see why it’s considered to be one of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto. Especially since there is multiple restaurants to choose from.
While you can certainly pick up a quick slice of pizza, dessert, or gelato at one of their counters we will focus on the dine-in restaurants here.
La Pizza & La Pasta – If the name wasn’t glaringly obvious this spot specializes in wood-fired pizza and house made pastas and it shows. Can’t go wrong here
La Piazza – Like La Pizza & La Pasta this spot also has pizza and pastas. They also however offer a wide selection of small share plates and a vast menu of wines, locally crafted beers, and cocktails.
Birroteca – One great thing about the Eataly in Toronto is that not only do they import ingredients from Italy for a truly authentic experience they also often source ingredients from local Toronto producers and/or partner with local establishments. This is the case at Birroteca where they partnered with Indie Alehouse, a local Toronto craft beer brewery. Several craft beers have been created exclusively for Eataly and rotate based on availability of seasonal ingredients. Birroteca also focuses on seafood and you can find oysters and the catch of the day available to pair with your craft beer.
Trattoria Milano – This restaurant focuses on Milan style of Italian cuisine. While the pasta here is also amazing the Risotto al Salto (saffron risotto) and the Maiale (thinly pounded veal chop) are definitely stars of the menu here.
Gio Rana’s Really Really Nice Restaurant (The Nose Restaurant)
Gio Rana’s Really Really Nice Restaurant has been around since 1989. It’s often just called The Nose Restaurant though since there’s no sign outside their spot, just a giant nose sculpture that’s attached to where the name would normally be found.
This place is pretty controversial when it comes to the local’s opinions on the best Italian restaurants in Toronto. People here either absolutely love it or they hate it.
For those that love it the favourites tend to include the pasta, especially the papardelle which is served in a mushroom cream sauce with roasted walnuts and thyme. Other favourites include the braised beal ossobuco and the nutella cheesecake. Portions are also large and prices reasonable. You’re likely to need to doggy bag some home with you.
As a polarizing spot in the city they often get some pretty rough reviews as well. I will say they do have a great sense of humour about it. If you’re interested in checking out some of their cheeky responses you can take a look at their instagram where they post the bad reviews along with their tongue-in-cheek clap backs (which they still manage to keep respectful as well).
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