Toronto, a city celebrated for its culinary diversity, has embraced the rich, bold flavors of Filipino cuisine with a passion. With a culinary history woven from a tapestry of indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences, Filipino dishes offer a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate. Savor the lively ambiance and flavors of Spain with the best Spanish tapas in Toronto, and then switch gears to the savory delights of the best Chinese takeout in Toronto. Whether it’s the savory allure of Adobo, the tangy zest of Sinigang, or the sweet satisfaction of Halo-Halo, there’s a Filipino dish that beckons every food lover. In this bustling Canadian metropolis, a wave of Filipino eateries has risen, each vying for the title of ‘the best’. Dive into this article as we embark on a gastronomic journey, unearthing Toronto’s top Filipino dining havens that promise an authentic taste of the Philippines.
Here are 15 best Filipino restaurants in Toronto:
- Tinuno
- Kanto by Tita Flips
- Kabalen Sweets & Restaurant
- Islas Filipino BBQ and Bar
- Tito Ron’s
- FV Foods
- Casa Manila
- Pampanguena Bakery
- Buddy’s
- McEwan (Don Mills)
- Remely’s Filipino Restaurant
- Jollytops Filipino Cuisine
- Mami’s Authentic Filipino Food
- Perlas de Pilipinas
- Fiesta Filipino
Tinuno
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Cabbagetown, Tinuno is celebrated for its traditional kamayan feasts — a hands-on dining experience where food is elegantly spread over banana leaves. The ambiance is warm and familial, reminiscent of gatherings in Filipino households. Their specialties like Grilled Milkfish, Pork BBQ, and Shrimp take center stage during these feasts. But what truly stands out is the interactive dining experience they provide, allowing patrons to enjoy their meal using their hands, truly embracing Filipino dining traditions.
Address: 3520 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M4X 1J6, Canada
Kanto by Tita Flips
Situated in the Dundas and Bathurst area, Kanto is a street food lover’s dream. Spearheaded by Tita Flips, this eatery offers a casual ambiance, with decor that reminds one of street corners in Manila. They’re best known for dishes like Taho (silken tofu with syrup and pearls) and Bagnet (crispy pork belly). Their signature dish, however, is the Lechon Kawali Poutine, a delightful fusion of Filipino flavors and the Canadian favorite. If you’re after a quick bite that’s packed with flavor, Kanto is your go-to spot.
Address: 2986 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6P 1Z3, Canada
Kabalen Sweets & Restaurant
For those who have a sweet tooth yet also love a hearty Filipino meal, Kabalen offers the best of both worlds. Located in Scarborough, this restaurant-bakery boasts a casual and homely setting, perfect for family gatherings. Signature dishes include Pancit Malabon and Sisig, but their true specialty lies in their desserts. From Puto (steamed rice cakes) to Halo-Halo, their desserts are a hit among both locals and visitors. What makes Kabalen unique is their array of freshly baked Filipino bread and pastries, ensuring that patrons leave with both full stomachs and bags of treats to enjoy later.
Address: 373A Wilson Ave, North York, ON M3H 1S9, Canada
Islas Filipino BBQ and Bar
If you’re in the mood for grilled delights in Toronto, Islas Filipino BBQ and Bar should be on your list. Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant showcases the rich tradition of Filipino barbecue. The interior exudes a rustic charm with wooden furnishings, reminiscent of beachside eateries in the Philippines. They’re renowned for their BBQ Skewers and Grilled Tuna Jaw. A unique offering is their ‘Barbecue Platter’, allowing patrons to sample an assortment of their grilling expertise. Pair these with their specialty drinks, and you’ve got a feast fitting for any occasion. Expand your culinary journey to include the sizzling flavors of Japan with the top Japanese BBQ restaurants in Toronto.
Address: 1690 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6R 1B3, Canada
Tito Ron’s
A quirky fusion of Filipino and Caribbean flavors awaits you at Tito Ron’s. This eatery offers a relaxed, casual setting perfect for a quick lunch or takeout. They’ve gained fame for their unique culinary creations, like the Ube Macapuno Pie, a delightful mix of Filipino ingredients in a classic pie form. Their Cubano Sandwich with a Filipino twist is another crowd-favorite. Beyond the food, Tito Ron’s is a testament to the magic that can happen when two rich culinary worlds collide, offering patrons a truly unique dining experience.
Address: 214 Augusta Avenue. Toronto, ON M5T 2L8. Kensington Market.
FV Foods
Part bakery, part eatery, and part grocery, FV Foods is a one-stop-shop for all your Filipino cravings. With multiple locations across Toronto, this establishment has become a staple for many seeking authentic Filipino dishes and pastries. The ambiance is straightforward and casual, mirroring eateries in the Philippines. Must-tries include their Palabok, Bicol Express, and a vast selection of traditional pastries like Pan de Sal and Ensaymada. Their speciality, however, is in their wide range of baked goods, making it a favored spot for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack.
Address: 2085 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1R 2Z4, Canada
Casa Manila
Casa Manila is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Nestled in Toronto, this establishment offers an immersive dive into Filipino culture and cuisine. The ambiance is richly decorated, evoking the traditional Filipino home setting, making diners feel like they’ve stepped into Manila itself. Renowned for dishes like Kare-Kare (peanut stew) and Sinigang na Hipon (tamarind shrimp soup), they pride themselves on their ‘from scratch’ approach, ensuring authenticity. Unique to Casa Manila is their advocacy for healthy Filipino cuisine, often reducing the use of fats and sodium, making for a healthier dining option without sacrificing taste.
Address: 879 York Mills Rd Unit #1, North York, ON M3B 1Y5, Canada
Pampanguena Bakery
For those with a penchant for sweet and savory treats, Pampanguena Bakery beckons. This Filipino bakery in Scarborough is a delight for locals and visitors alike. The setting is simple yet inviting, with the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through. They specialize in traditional Filipino pastries like Ensaymada (sweet buns) and Hopia (bean-filled pastry). Still, their Pan de Sal (salted bread rolls) is a crowd-pleaser, especially when freshly baked in the mornings. What’s unique about Pampanguena is their dedication to the traditional baking methods, ensuring an authentic taste with every bite.
Address: 373 Wilson Ave, Toronto, ON M3H 1T3, Canada
Buddy’s
Buddy’s offers the comforting embrace of Filipino home-cooked meals. The ambiance is straightforward and relaxed, reminding one of family dinners back in the Philippines. They’re best known for their Silog meals — a combination of garlic rice, egg, and a choice of meat. The Longsilog, with Filipino sausage, is particularly popular. Buddy’s also offers a variety of traditional Filipino dishes, from stews to grilled items. For those missing the taste of home or wanting to experience the true essence of Filipino comfort food, Buddy’s stands as a beacon.
Address: 3700 Midland Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M1V 0B3 Canada.
McEwan (Don Mills)
While McEwan at Don Mills is not exclusively a Filipino restaurant, it has garnered attention for its excellent Filipino food section. This upscale grocery store boasts a diverse array of gourmet dishes from various cuisines. Within their vibrant food court, the Filipino section stands out, offering classics like Adobo, Lumpia, and Sinigang. The ambiance is modern and sleek, providing patrons with a shopping and dining experience in one. Those seeking a quick but authentic Filipino bite amidst their shopping spree will find McEwan’s offerings to be both convenient and delicious.
Address: 38 Karl Fraser Rd, North York, ON M3C 0H7, Canada
Remely’s Filipino Restaurant
For a genuine Filipino dining experience, Remely’s Filipino Restaurant is a must-visit. With its homey ambiance, it feels like a family gathering with every visit. Known for its generous portions and authentic flavors, dishes like the Lechon Kawali and Kare-Kare have become fan favorites. Remely’s also boasts a bakery, offering patrons freshly baked Filipino treats. Special weekend buffets draw large crowds, allowing diners to sample a wide variety of Filipino dishes in one go. For newcomers to Filipino cuisine, Remely’s offers a comprehensive introduction, making it a popular choice among both locals and visitors.
Address: 4830 Sheppard Ave E Unit 16, Scarborough, ON M1S 5M9, Canada
Jollytops Filipino Cuisine
Jollytops Filipino Cuisine is a haven for those seeking traditional Filipino dishes in a relaxed setting. The restaurant has a casual and friendly ambiance, with décor that’s evocative of a Filipino household. Jollytops is particularly known for its grilled dishes, with the Inihaw na Pusit (grilled squid) being a standout. Another specialty is their regional dishes, providing diners with a taste journey across the Philippine islands. Their turo-turo (point-point) style service, where diners choose from a variety of ready-made dishes, offers both convenience and an authentic Filipino dining experience.
Address: 288 Wilson Ave, North York, ON M3H 1S8, Canada
Mami’s Authentic Filipino Food
Mami’s Authentic Filipino Food is a nod to the Filipino mother’s kitchen, offering dishes that evoke nostalgia and comfort. The ambiance is homey and inviting, providing a backdrop reminiscent of family meals in the Philippines. They’re known for their traditional preparations, with dishes like Pochero and Bicol Express gaining notable mentions. What truly sets Mami’s apart is their adherence to time-honored Filipino recipes, ensuring that each dish tastes like it came straight from a Filipino home. Their Sinigang, a tangy tamarind soup, is particularly lauded for its authentic flavor profile.
Address: 4438 Sheppard Ave E, Toronto, ON M1S 1V2, Canada.
Perlas de Pilipinas
Translating to “Pearls of the Philippines,” Perlas de Pilipinas is a gem in the Toronto culinary scene. With a setting that marries modern aesthetics with traditional Filipino touches, it offers diners a cozy ambiance. They’re particularly celebrated for their seafood dishes, with the Seafood Kare-Kare being a standout favorite. Another specialty is their weekend buffet, allowing patrons to indulge in a wide range of Filipino delicacies. Their Leche Flan, a creamy caramel dessert, is a must-try, known to be a sweet conclusion to a hearty meal.
Address: 1970 Eglinton Ave E, Toronto, ON M1N 1V3, Canada
Fiesta Filipino
True to its name, dining at Fiesta Filipino feels like a celebration of Filipino culinary traditions. The ambiance is lively and vibrant, encapsulating the festive spirit of Filipino gatherings. This eatery is famous for its grill selections, with the BBQ Pork Skewers being a crowd favorite. They also offer a variety of traditional stews and noodle dishes, ensuring a comprehensive Filipino dining experience. Unique to Fiesta Filipino is their live entertainment on select evenings, turning a regular dinner outing into a night of fun and festivity.
Must-Try Dishes at Filipino Restaurants
Filipino cuisine is a delightful blend of indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American culinary influences. With its rich history, the Philippines has brought forth dishes that are both flavorful and evocative.
Adobo: Often considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines, Adobo is a testament to the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors. Typically made with chicken or pork, the meat is marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then browned and simmered to perfection.
Sinigang: This dish is an ode to the love Filipinos have for sour flavors. A hearty soup made from tamarind, it’s combined with vegetables and usually pork, shrimp, or fish. The result is a tangy broth that warms the soul.
Halo-Halo: Directly translating to “mix-mix,” Halo-Halo is a dessert that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in appearance. Comprising mixed fruits, sweetened beans, jellies, and purple yam, it’s topped with shaved ice, milk, and often a scoop of ice cream. It’s a sweet concoction that offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Lechon: A celebration dish, Lechon is a whole roasted pig that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s often the centerpiece of major festivities and is best enjoyed with a side of liver sauce.
Pancit: Noodles have a special place in Filipino culture, symbolizing long life. Pancit dishes, whether it’s Pancit Canton (stir-fried noodles) or Pancit Malabon (seafood and shrimp sauce noodles), are staples at birthdays and gatherings.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options
While Filipino cuisine is predominantly meat-centric, there’s an increasing trend, especially in cosmopolitan areas like Toronto, to adapt traditional dishes for vegetarians and vegans.
Filipino Vegetable Dishes: Many Filipino dishes highlight the country’s bounty of fresh vegetables. Dishes like Pinakbet, a mixed vegetable stew flavored with shrimp paste, and Laing, dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk, offer delectable vegetarian options. Broaden your taste horizons with the top vegetarian Indian restaurants in Toronto that masterfully showcase the art of vegetarian Indian cooking.
Vegan Adaptations: Many of Toronto’s Filipino restaurants are now offering vegan adaptations of classic dishes. Vegan Sinigang, for example, excludes meat and uses tofu or plant-based protein instead. Another popular adaptation is the Vegan Adobo, which replaces meat with tofu or tempeh. Moreover, desserts like Halo-Halo can be made vegan-friendly by excluding ingredients like leche flan and opting for coconut or almond milk. If you’re also curious about the city’s vegan options, particularly in the pizza scene, check out Toronto’s popular vegan pizza shops for a delightful twist on the classic Italian favorite, tailored for plant-based preferences.
Events and Festivals
Toronto’s diverse cultural tapestry is never more evident than during its many festivals and events, and Filipino cuisine enjoys its moment in the sun as well. For those passionate about diving deep into authentic Filipino food culture, the annual Taste of Manila festival is a must-visit. As Canada’s largest Filipino street festival, it brings Bathurst and Wilson’s intersection alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Philippines. From traditional performances to stalls bursting with Filipino culinary delights, it’s a celebration of Filipino heritage in the heart of Toronto.
For those keen on a more intimate experience, many Filipino restaurants in Toronto host special events during the Philippine Independence Day celebrations in June. These events often feature special menus, cultural presentations, and traditional music. It’s an ideal time for both the Filipino diaspora and newcomers to the cuisine to bond over shared meals and stories.
Insider Tips
Dining at a Filipino restaurant is not just about the food; it’s about experiencing a slice of Filipino hospitality and culture. Here are some insider tips to enhance that experience:
- While weekends might offer a lively atmosphere, they also come with longer wait times, especially in popular restaurants. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider dining on weekdays, preferably during lunch hours.
- While dishes like Adobo and Sinigang might be well-known, venture out and try lesser-known delights like Dinuguan (a savory stew made from pork blood) or Sisig (a sizzling dish made from parts of a pig’s head and liver). They might sound unconventional, but they are beloved by Filipinos for a reason.
- When dining at a traditional Filipino restaurant, especially during a kamayan feast (where food is laid out on banana leaves, and diners eat with their hands), remember to wash your hands before and after eating. It’s also customary to say “Kain na!” (Let’s eat!) before starting, inviting everyone to dig in. If unsure about any customs, don’t hesitate to ask the staff. They’ll be more than happy to guide you.
Key Takeaways
- Filipino cuisine in Toronto is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American culinary influences, offering a unique gastronomic experience.
- The article spotlighted several renowned Filipino restaurants in Toronto, each providing its unique ambiance, signature dishes, and specialties.
- Must-try Filipino dishes include Adobo, Sinigang, Halo-Halo, Lechon, and Pancit, each bringing its distinct flavor profile.
- With the evolving culinary scene, many Toronto Filipino restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of traditional dishes, ensuring inclusivity.
- Toronto hosts events like the Taste of Manila and special restaurant events on Philippine Independence Day, allowing locals to immerse themselves in authentic Filipino food culture.
- For the best experience, consider visiting restaurants during off-peak hours, explore lesser-known dishes, and familiarize yourself with Filipino dining etiquette.
- At its core, Filipino dining in Toronto is not just about the food but also about celebrating the sense of community, heritage, and shared stories.
FAQs
- Are there vegan options in Filipino restaurants in Toronto?
Yes, many Filipino restaurants in Toronto offer vegan adaptations of traditional dishes.
- Which Filipino dessert is a mix of fruits, ice, and milk?
That would be Halo-Halo.
- What’s the significance of Pancit in Filipino culture?
Pancit, or noodles, symbolize long life and are staples at birthdays and gatherings.
- Where can I experience a Filipino street festival in Toronto?
The Taste of Manila is Canada’s largest Filipino street festival held in Toronto.
- Is Adobo a chicken or pork dish?
Adobo can be made with either chicken or pork, marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and spices.
- Are there any Filipino food celebrations in June in Toronto?
Yes, many restaurants host special events for Philippine Independence Day celebrations in June.
- What is kamayan dining?
Kamayan is a traditional Filipino feast where food is laid on banana leaves, and diners eat with their hands.
- Is there a Filipino version of roasted pig?
Yes, it’s called Lechon, a whole roasted pig that’s crispy outside and tender inside.
- What is the main souring ingredient in Sinigang?
Sinigang gets its signature sour taste from tamarind.
- Can I find traditional Filipino pastries in Toronto?
Yes, establishments like Pampanguena Bakery and Da Best Filipino Bakery & Eatery offer traditional Filipino pastries.