Welcome to Toronto, a haven for seafood lovers! Whether you’re craving the crisp snap of freshly shucked oysters, the rich indulgence of lobster, or the delicate flavors of perfectly grilled fish, the city’s seafood restaurants cater to every palate. In this comprehensive guide, we dive deep into the vibrant world of seafood dining in Toronto. From the bustling docks bringing in the day’s freshest catch to the culinary artistry lighting up the city’s dining scene, we’ve rounded up the best seafood restaurants in Toronto to ensure your next meal is nothing short of spectacular. Prepare to explore an ocean of flavors as we bring you the crème de la crème of Toronto’s seafood eateries. So, grab your forks and ready your appetite—we’re about to embark on a delicious journey through the heart of Toronto’s seafood paradise!
14 Best Seafood Restaurants in Toronto
- Rodney’s Oyster House
- Pearl Diver
- Fishman Lobster Clubhouse
- The Chase Fish & Oyster
- John & Sons Oyster House
- Oyster Boy
- Lobster Trap
- Miku Toronto
- Biff’s Bistro
- Buster’s Sea Cove
- Starfish Oyster Bed & Grill
- Joso’s
- Harbour 60 Toronto
- Diana’s Seafood
Rodney’s Oyster House
Rodney’s Oyster House is a Toronto institution, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and an extensive selection of oysters. Nestled in the heart of the city, this seafood restaurant in Toronto is renowned for its fresh, high-quality seafood, especially the oysters sourced from the best waters in Canada and beyond. Patrons can enjoy a variety of preparations, but the raw oysters on the half shell remain the star attraction, often paired with Rodney’s signature house-made sauces. The rustic maritime decor, complete with nautical maps and fishing gear, creates a cozy, informal setting perfect for casual dining. Rodney’s also offers seafood platters and a range of other dishes, making it a top destination for seafood enthusiasts.
Address: 469 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1K4, Canada
Contact: +1 416-363-8105
Pearl Diver
Pearl Diver, a charming seafood eatery in Toronto, offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes, from seafood aficionados to casual diners. Known for its relaxed, inviting ambiance, this restaurant specializes in sustainable seafood dishes. A standout on the menu is the Seafood Tower, a lavish assortment of chilled shellfish and crustaceans, perfect for sharing. Pearl Diver’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their careful sourcing of ingredients, ensuring that each dish not only tastes good but also benefits the oceanic ecosystem. The warm, friendly service and the thoughtful selection of wines and spirits complement their culinary offerings, making Pearl Diver a gem among seafood dining places in Toronto.
Address: 100 Adelaide St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1K9, Canada
Contact: +1 416-366-7827
Fishman Lobster Clubhouse
Consider specializing yourculinary outing by visiting some of the best lobster restaurants in the city. Fishman Lobster Clubhouse is a culinary landmark in Toronto, famous for its extravagant lobster towers that draw seafood lovers from all over. This bustling restaurant prides itself on serving large family-style portions, making it ideal for groups and celebrations. The Lobster Mountain, featuring towering layers of lobster and king crab, is their most popular dish and a feast for the eyes and palate. The atmosphere here is lively and boisterous, enhanced by the sight of seafood being prepared in the open kitchen. Fishman’s dedication to quality is unmatched, with seafood flown in daily to ensure freshness. For a truly unique dining experience, Fishman Lobster Clubhouse stands out as one of the best seafood restaurants in Toronto.
Address: 4020 Finch Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1S 3T6, Canada
Contact: +1 416-321-0250
The Chase Fish & Oyster
The Chase Fish & Oyster is one of the best seafood restaurants in Toronto, where sophistication meets the deep, briny flavors of the sea. This upscale eatery is renowned for its refined approach to seafood, offering a menu that highlights local and sustainably sourced fish. The ambiance is elegant and modern, with a sleek, nautical-inspired design that complements its maritime offerings. A signature dish that delights diners is the Seared Scallops, served with seasonal accompaniments that enhance the natural flavors of the seafood. While exploring the best seafood restaurants in Toronto, don’t miss out on trying some of the city’s top fish & chips spots. The Chase is not just about great food; it’s about creating a memorable dining experience, with a rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of the city, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a chic night out.
Address: 10 Temperance St Fl 5, Toronto, ON M5H 1Y4, Canada
Contact: +1 647-348-7000
John & Sons Oyster House
John & Sons Oyster House is a true connoisseur’s choice among the seafood eateries in Toronto, known for its authentic, down-to-earth oyster bar experience. This restaurant prides itself on a straightforward, no-frills approach to seafood that focuses on the freshness and quality of their offerings. Their oysters, sourced from both Canadian coasts and beyond, are a must-try for visitors, served ice-cold with a variety of house-made mignonettes. The ambiance is cozy and unpretentious, with a friendly staff that makes everyone feel welcome. Besides oysters, their Lobster Roll, packed with succulent lobster meat and light seasoning, stands out as a crowd-pleaser. John & Sons is the perfect spot for those who appreciate the timeless charm and simplicity of a traditional oyster house.
Address: 56 Temperance St, Toronto, ON M5H 3V5, Canada
Contact: +1 416-504-5111
Oyster Boy
Oyster Boy is esteemed among Toronto’s best seafood restaurants for its dedication to serving the finest oysters and shellfish. This restaurant has built a reputation not just as a dining spot but as an institution that educates patrons about the joys of shellfish. The casual, intimate setting is ideal for both oyster aficionados and novices alike, where the friendly staff is eager to share their knowledge about the different varieties and flavors of oysters. The most celebrated dish here is undoubtedly the selection of raw oysters, which are impeccably fresh and sourced from the best waters across North America. Oyster Boy’s unique offerings include weekly shucking classes and oyster tasting events, providing a truly interactive dining experience for seafood lovers.
Address: 872 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-534-3432
Lobster Trap
Lobster Trap is celebrated as one of the top seafood restaurants in Toronto, specializing in East Coast flavors that bring a taste of the Atlantic closer to home. This restaurant is particularly famous for its traditional Lobster Boil, a dish that offers diners a hearty taste of maritime hospitality with perfectly steamed lobsters, potatoes, corn, and a buttery dipping sauce. The ambiance here is reminiscent of a coastal seafood shack, complete with nautical décor and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that invites you to relax and enjoy. Lobster Trap’s commitment to authenticity and quality is evident in their selection of fresh lobsters, delivered regularly to ensure the best dining experience. It’s a favored spot for both family dinners and casual gatherings, where seafood is celebrated in its most classic form. You may also be interested in exploring the top kid-friendly restaurants in Toronto, where dining is fun for all ages.
Address: 8099 Weston Rd, Woodbridge, ON L4L 0C1, Canada
Contact: +1 416-787-3211
Miku Toronto
Enhance your seafood journey through Toronto by sampling the unique taste of aburi sushi, where the fish is partially grilled and topped with flavorful sauces. Miku Toronto brings a unique fusion of Japanese and Canadian seafood cuisine to the heart of the city, making it a standout among Toronto’s best seafood restaurants. Known for pioneering the Aburi style of sushi in Canada, Miku offers a menu where each dish is artfully prepared with flame-seared techniques that enhance the natural flavors of the seafood. The signature dish, Aburi Salmon Oshi Sushi, is a favorite, featuring layers of salmon, sushi rice, and special sauces, pressed and lightly torched for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The modern and sophisticated ambiance, coupled with panoramic views of the Toronto waterfront, makes Miku an ideal location for a special dining occasion. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in seafood cuisine is what truly sets it apart.
Address: 10 Bay St. #105, Toronto, ON M5J 2R8, Canada
Contact: +1 647-347-7347
Biff’s Bistro
Biff’s Bistro offers a delightful French-inspired take on seafood dining in Toronto, located conveniently in the downtown area. This bistro is known for its vibrant atmosphere and a menu that combines classic French techniques with local seafood. A popular dish here is the Moules Frites, served with perfectly cooked mussels in a flavorful broth accompanied by crispy, golden fries. The ambiance of Biff’s Bistro is elegantly casual, with a touch of Parisian charm that includes warm lighting and chic décor. Their extensive wine list complements the seafood offerings, making it a great spot for a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience. Biff’s Bistro is not just a meal destination but a place where food and culture intertwine, offering a slice of European flair in Toronto’s dynamic food scene.
Address: 4 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1G4, Canada
Contact: +1 416-860-0086
Buster’s Sea Cove
Buster’s Sea Cove is renowned as a bustling spot for seafood enthusiasts in Toronto, drawing crowds for its authentic market-style dining. Situated in the iconic St. Lawrence Market, this venue is famous for its casual, lively atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a true taste of coastal cuisine. Their most popular dish, the Grilled Octopus, is marinated to perfection and served with a tangy sauce that accentuates the fresh flavors. Buster’s Sea Cove excels in serving up a variety of seafood dishes from fish tacos to a classic New England lobster roll, making it one of the best seafood eateries in Toronto for those seeking a quick yet flavorful meal. The open, airy space and the aroma of fresh seafood cooking create an inviting environment that mirrors a seaside eatery.
Address: 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-369-9048
Starfish Oyster Bed & Grill
Starfish Oyster Bed & Grill is a gem among seafood dining places in Toronto, known for its sophisticated ambiance and its dedication to serving the finest oysters and seafood. This restaurant specializes in offering a wide range of oysters, both local and imported, which are expertly shucked and presented. The ambiance is elegantly understated with a focus on providing a warm, intimate dining experience. A standout dish is their Oyster Platter, which allows diners to sample different varieties accompanied by champagne mignonette. Starfish also features seasonal seafood dishes that highlight the best of what the sea has to offer, prepared with minimalist yet flavorful techniques. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to indulge in a refined oyster and seafood experience in the heart of Toronto.
Address: 100 Adelaide St. East, East of Church St.
Joso’s
Joso’s stands out in the Toronto seafood scene for its artistic flair and exceptional Mediterranean-inspired seafood. The décor of Joso’s is a vibrant tableau itself, adorned with eclectic art and sculptures that reflect its bohemian roots. Known for its Squid Ink Risotto, a rich, savory dish that captivates with both its appearance and taste, Joso’s offers a menu that combines traditional and innovative approaches to seafood. Each dish at Joso’s tells a story, with ingredients sourced to ensure freshness and quality. The intimate and colorful ambiance makes it a favored spot for both romantic dinners and celebratory gatherings. For those seeking a unique seafood dining experience, Joso’s provides a blend of culinary excellence and artistic atmosphere that continues to charm and delight visitors.
Address: 202 Davenport Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 1J2, Canada
Contact: +1 416-925-1903
Harbour 60 Toronto
Complement your seafood adventures with a visit to some of the best yet budget-friendly steakhouses in Toronto. Harbour 60 Toronto is a landmark destination among the best seafood restaurants in Toronto, renowned for its luxurious dining experience and exceptional seafood and steak offerings. Situated in a historic building just steps from the waterfront, its ambiance is opulent, featuring rich leather booths, dark wood, and soft lighting that speaks to its century-old heritage. Harbour 60 is celebrated for its Canadian Lobster Tail, perfectly cooked and often ordered alongside their prime steaks for a surf-and-turf experience. The restaurant prides itself on its impeccable service and an extensive wine list that complements its meals. Ideal for business dinners or special occasions, Harbour 60 delivers an unforgettable dining experience where each dish is crafted with the utmost care and expertise.
Address: 60 Harbour St, Toronto, ON M5J 1B7, Canada
Contact: +1 416-777-2111
Diana’s Seafood
Diana’s Seafood delights seafood lovers as one of the best seafood dining places in Toronto, celebrated for its fresh and expansive seafood selection. Originally starting as a seafood supplier, Diana’s has grown into a full-service restaurant known for offering some of the freshest fish and shellfish in the city. The Oyster Bar experience here is unparalleled, with a vast variety of fresh oysters that are expertly shucked and served. The ambiance is bright and modern, reflecting its commitment to providing a clean and welcoming environment for family dinners or casual lunches. Diana’s is particularly famous for its Seafood Platters that showcase an array of premium cold and hot seafood items, making it a must-visit and the best seafood restaurant in Toronto for anyone wanting to indulge in the freshest seafood in Toronto.
Address: 2101 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1R 3C3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-288-9286
Cultural Influence on Toronto’s Seafood Scene
Toronto’s vibrant multicultural tapestry profoundly enriches its culinary landscape, especially in the realm of seafood. This diversity is reflected in the variety of seafood dishes available, which are infused with flavors from around the world. Restaurants like Miku Toronto and Joso’s showcase how global influences can create unique seafood experiences. Miku, known for its Japanese-Canadian fusion, specializes in Aburi sushi, where traditional Japanese techniques meet local Canadian ingredients. Meanwhile, Joso’s, with its Mediterranean flair, offers dishes like squid ink risotto, marrying Italian techniques with fresh Canadian seafood.
Fusion seafood restaurants continue to thrive, offering inventive dishes that blend culinary traditions, such as The Chase Fish & Oyster, which combines modern American cooking techniques with Canadian seafood staples. These establishments not only celebrate Toronto’s cultural diversity but also expand the culinary horizons of both locals and visitors, making the city’s seafood scene one of the most dynamic in North America. Complement your seafood dining experience with a visit to the seaside. Check out the top beaches in and near Toronto for a scenic way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Seafood Options
In Toronto, a growing number of seafood restaurants are embracing sustainability, recognizing the importance of protecting marine environments for future generations. Establishments like Pearl Diver and Rodney’s Oyster House are at the forefront of this movement, focusing on sustainable seafood sourcing from environmentally responsible fisheries and farms. These restaurants ensure that their seafood offerings contribute to healthy oceans by opting for species that are plentiful and fished or farmed in eco-friendly ways.
Choosing sustainable seafood comes with significant benefits. It helps maintain biodiversity, supports environmentally responsible fishing industries, and ensures that seafood populations can regenerate. For consumers, it means enjoying fresher, healthier dishes that contribute to the health of the planet. Restaurants that prioritize sustainability are not only providing delicious meals but are also playing an essential part in a broader movement towards more ethical and environmentally conscious dining.
Key Takeaways
- Toronto’s multicultural background significantly influences the variety and preparation of seafood dishes, providing a unique dining experience that blends global flavors and local Canadian seafood.
- The city boasts a range of top seafood restaurants like Rodney’s Oyster House, Miku Toronto, and Fishman Lobster Clubhouse, each known for their specialty dishes and high-quality seafood.
- Many Toronto seafood restaurants prioritize sustainability in their seafood sourcing, ensuring that their offerings are not only delicious but also environmentally responsible.
- Toronto’s seafood scene is enriched by fusion restaurants such as Miku Toronto and The Chase Fish & Oyster, which creatively merge different culinary traditions with local seafood.
- The freshness of the seafood is a hallmark of Toronto’s seafood restaurants, with many establishments sourcing daily from local and international waters to ensure premium quality.
- Beyond food, the ambiance and service at these seafood restaurants contribute significantly to making dining out a memorable event, emphasizing comfort and customer satisfaction.
- Restaurants like Oyster Boy not only serve seafood but also educate patrons about different varieties and the benefits of sustainable seafood, enhancing the overall dining experience.
FAQs
- Which Toronto seafood restaurant is famous for its lobster?
Fishman Lobster Clubhouse is renowned for its impressive lobster towers. - Are there sustainable seafood options available in Toronto restaurants?
Yes, establishments like Pearl Diver and Rodney’s Oyster House prioritize sustainable seafood sourcing. - Can I find family-friendly seafood restaurants in Toronto?
Lobster Trap and Buster’s Sea Cove offer a welcoming atmosphere suitable for family dining. - What is a must-try dish at Rodney’s Oyster House?
The raw oysters on the half shell are highly recommended. - Is there a seafood restaurant in Toronto that also serves steak?
Harbour 60 Toronto offers both exquisite seafood and premium steak options. - Which seafood restaurant in Toronto offers a good selection of wine?
Biff’s Bistro has an extensive wine list that pairs beautifully with their seafood dishes. - Are there any seafood restaurants in Toronto that specialize in sushi?
Miku Toronto is famous for its Aburi-style sushi, a must-try for sushi enthusiasts. - Which restaurant offers the best seafood platters in Toronto?
Diana’s Seafood is renowned for its fresh and extensive seafood platters. - Can I find budget-friendly seafood restaurants in Toronto?
Buster’s Sea Cove provides delicious seafood options that are reasonably priced. - What are the seafood dining trends in Toronto for the upcoming year?
Trends include a focus on sustainable practices and the fusion of global cuisines with local seafood. - Where can I experience a traditional oyster bar in Toronto?
John & Sons Oyster House offers a classic oyster bar experience with a variety of fresh oysters.