Roam At Home Toronto

1. As one of the most multicultural cities in North America, Toronto is known for its incredibly diverse and truly authentic cuisine. This week on Roam At Home, we’re embarking on a tastebud explosion, looking for the real deal across Toronto’s eclectic neighbourhoods. We may not be able to cross the pond and enjoy a ‘za in a piazza in Rome, but we can grab a slice and a beer for a picnic in the park. This is no fine dining list, but we assure you these gems are 100% must-eats when exploring Toronto, as voted by you.

   Best shawarma in Greek Town

   Messini

   

   With a name like Messini Authentic Gyros, this darling on the Danforth is the unanimous favourite for the real deal gyro. In addition to being the most beloved gyro in the city, it also happens to be the first to introduce Greek fries, a perfectly delicious complement to the gyro if you’re feeling extra hungry. Don’t worry if you can’t handle ALL that food – the gyros themselves come with a topping of crispy French fries to add that extra special something.

   Best slice in Little Italy

   Birreria Volo

   

   Bierreria Volo was a sleeper hit among locals as a go-to watering hole and has begun gaining notoriety due to their extensive and rotating beer list and incredibly eclectic small bites menu. In addition to those ‘small bites’, they’ve gained a serious following from their access to their neighbour PG Cluck’s classic fried chicken lineup. Now, adding to their already stellar mix of Italian sandwiches, fried chicken staples, antipastos and conservos (sardines, anyone?) you can add authentic pizza to the mix.

   Best Churrasqueira in Little Portugal

   Barraida Churrasqueira

   

   Little Portugal is one of the city’s longer-standing bouroughs, and while sections have undergone significant gentrification, there are still deep roots to be found. Now boasting 4 locations around the GTA, Barraida’s original home is still in place in Little Portugal, now over 30 years old. The food is as authentic as it gets, the vibe feels like family, and with a whole chicken dinner coming in under $15, the value is exceptional.

   Best dim sum in China Town

   Dim Sum King

   

   Whether you’re coming for Sunday brunch or a late-night stop Dim Sum King is known for its old school, traditional approach to Dim Sum. Seafood is their claim to fame, which when dining in, is often shown to patrons live prior to being cooked. The Sui Mai (steamed dumplings) are one of the most popular dishes in the city and certainly not to be missed.

   Best BBQ in Koreatown

   Korean Village

   

   Another veteran on our list this week, Korean Village Restaurant has been proudly serving authentic Korean dishes since 1978. While the neighbourhood around this Koreatown staple has changed a lot, the dedication and care put into the food at Korean Village have not. Sauces and traditional sides like kimchi are all made in-house and Barbecue meats are marinated for over 35 hours, ensuring flavour is top-notch and found in every aspect of their menu.

Kelsey Trainor