Welcome to the heartwarming world of Southern cuisine right here in Toronto! Whether you’re a homesick Southerner or a curious foodie, Toronto’s culinary landscape offers an array of Southern food restaurants that promise to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Dixie. From smoky barbecue ribs that fall off the bone to creamy, dreamy grits, the city’s best Southern food restaurants serve up authentic dishes brimming with flavor and tradition. As you dive into this article, you’ll discover not only the top Southern food restaurants in Toronto but also the unique stories and signature dishes that make each of them stand out. Get ready to indulge in a soul-satisfying journey through the best places for Southern food in Toronto, where every meal is served with a generous side of hospitality.
11 Best Southern Food Restaurants in Toronto
- The Carbon Bar
- Southern Accent Restaurant
- Barque Smokehouse
- The Stockyards
- Smoque N’ Bones
- Hogtown Smoke
- AAA Bar
- The Hole In the Wall
- Cluck Clucks
- The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles
- Southern Junction
The Carbon Bar
Located in the bustling heart of Toronto, The Carbon Bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu that prominently features Southern staples with a gourmet twist. This eatery stands out as one of the best Southern food restaurants in Toronto, offering a culinary journey that spans from Texas-style barbecue to New Orleans-inspired dishes. Patrons rave about the pit-smoked pork ribs and the house-special Carbon Bar burger, both infused with rich, smoky flavors. The restaurant’s spacious, industrial-chic setting creates a lively yet inviting ambiance, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Unique to The Carbon Bar is their selection of craft cocktails, which perfectly complement the bold flavors of their dishes, making every meal an experience to remember.
Address: 99 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1S1, Canada
Contact: +1 416-947-7000
Southern Accent Restaurant
Southern Accent Restaurant has been a cozy enclave of Cajun and Creole cooking in Toronto for over three decades. This restaurant is a treasure trove of Southern hospitality, offering a uniquely vibrant and artsy ambiance adorned with Mardi Gras beads and folk art. It’s known for dishes like blackened chicken and jambalaya, which are bursting with authentic flavors. The menu also features a variety of vegetarian options, catering to all dietary preferences. Their bourbon bar, featuring an extensive selection of whiskies, is a highlight, providing the perfect pairing for their spicy, flavorful meals. Southern Accent’s commitment to providing a genuine Southern dining experience makes it one of Toronto’s best places for Southern food, attracting those who wish to indulge in food that feeds the soul.
Contact: +1 416-305-3224
Barque Smokehouse
Barque Smokehouse is a haven for barbecue enthusiasts, setting the standard for smoked meats in Toronto. This restaurant is celebrated for its innovative approach to traditional barbecue, incorporating elements of Southern cooking with a Canadian twist. Signature dishes like the smoked baby back ribs and the competition chicken thighs are favorites among diners. The ambiance is warmly rustic, with wooden furnishings and soft lighting that enhance the smokehouse vibe. Barque also offers a curated selection of craft beers and local wines that beautifully complement their smoky dishes. For families, their “Family Feast,” served during weekend brunches, showcases an assortment of their best offerings, making it a popular choice for a communal dining experience.
Address: 299 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2M3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-532-7700
The Stockyards
The Stockyards is the go-to spot for authentic Southern barbecue and fried chicken in Toronto. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and open kitchen design, this restaurant allows guests to witness the art of smoking meats. The Stockyards prides itself on its smoked brisket and famously crispy fried chicken, which have been staples since its inception. The menu is a blend of classic Southern flavors with inventive twists, like the addition of maple syrup to their smoked sausages. What sets The Stockyards apart is their commitment to quality, with all meats smoked daily using traditional methods that pay homage to Southern culinary traditions. This dedication makes The Stockyards one of the top restaurants in Toronto for those in pursuit of genuine Southern barbecue.
Smoque N’ Bones
Smoque N’ Bones is a cornerstone in the Toronto Southern cuisine scene, known for its authentic Southern barbecue and its intimate, rustic decor that transports diners straight to the heart of the South. The restaurant’s menu highlights include their succulent ribs and pulled pork, all smoked using traditional wood-fired techniques. What sets Smoque N’ Bones apart is their dedication to creating homemade sauces and rubs that enhance the flavors of their dishes. Additionally, they offer a selection of bourbon and craft beers that perfectly complement their rich, smoky meals. For those seeking an authentic Southern dining experience, Smoque N’ Bones is among Toronto’s best Southern food restaurants, offering both exceptional food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Address: 869 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G4, Canada
Contact: +1 647-341-5730
Hogtown Smoke
Hogtown Smoke stands out as one of the top Southern food restaurants in Toronto, specializing in traditional smoked meats and seafood. This restaurant is famed for its brisket and pulled pork, which are smoked to perfection and served alongside a variety of homemade sauces. The ambiance at Hogtown Smoke is rustic and welcoming, with a touch of industrial chic that reflects the urban setting. Diners can enjoy a selection of Southern-inspired side dishes, like cornbread and baked beans, that complement the smoky flavors of the meats. Hogtown Smoke also offers a range of craft beers and bourbons, providing the perfect accompaniment to a hearty Southern meal. It’s a go-to destination for both casual diners and barbecue enthusiasts alike.
Address: 18 Dohme Ave, Toronto, ON M4B 1Y6, Canada
AAA Bar
AAA Bar stands proudly among the best Southern food restaurants in Toronto, specializing in Texas-style barbecue. This casual and lively spot is famous for its low and slow-cooked ribs and brisket that melt in your mouth, delivering authentic Southern flavors. The ambiance is laid-back, with a décor that features rustic wood and quirky Southern memorabilia, creating a genuinely relaxed dining atmosphere. AAA Bar is particularly known for its wide variety of smoked meats, which can be enjoyed with a selection of craft beers and bourbons that are as bold in taste as the food. Their jalapeño cornbread and sweet potato fries are local favorites, making AAA Bar a top choice for those craving a taste of the South in Toronto.
Address: 138 Adelaide St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1K9, Canada
Contact: +1 647-347-2677
The Hole In the Wall
The Hole In the Wall, nestled in Toronto’s Junction neighborhood, offers a cozy retreat with its menu deeply rooted in Southern cuisine. This small yet charming restaurant is known for its eclectic and hearty dishes, such as the smoked brisket sandwich and savory Southern poutine. The space, true to its name, features a snug and inviting atmosphere with vintage décor that adds character and warmth. The Hole In the Wall is celebrated for its craft beer selection and specialty cocktails, which perfectly complement their comfort food offerings. This spot is a favorite among locals as the best Southern food restaurant in Toronto for its friendly service and the unique, laid-back vibe that invites diners to linger over their meals and enjoy the convivial setting.
Address: 2867A Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6P 1Y9, Canada
Contact: +1 647-883-7781
Cluck Clucks
Cluck Clucks is a standout among Southern food restaurants in Toronto, famed for its exceptional take on chicken and waffles. Nestled in the heart of the city, this eatery boasts a playful and modern atmosphere that makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors. They are celebrated for their crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken paired with uniquely flavored waffles, such as jalapeño and cheddar. Cluck Clucks also offers a variety of homemade sauces that add a delightful twist to each dish. This restaurant’s dedication to quality and flavor, along with its fun, vibrant setting, ensures a memorable dining experience, making it one of the best places for Southern food in Toronto.
Address: 222 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4M8, Canada
Contact: +1 647-748-2582
The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles
The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles has carved out a niche in Toronto’s culinary scene with its focus on Northern-style fried chicken paired with Canadian maple syrup. Known for its laid-back, urban feel, this restaurant delivers comfort food with a twist, making it a must-visit for those exploring Southern food in Toronto. The menu features several variations of chicken and waffles, including their signature dish, “The ODB,” which combines boneless thighs, buttered waffles, and maple syrup. The Dirty Bird’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and its casual, hip ambiance provides a fresh take on traditional Southern dining, catering to a young, trendy crowd.
Address: 79 Kensington Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2K2, Canada
Contact: +1 647-345-2473
Southern Junction
Southern Junction brings a slice of Southern hospitality to Toronto with its authentic Texan barbecue and Cajun cuisine. This restaurant is known for its extensive menu that features slow-smoked meats and spicy Cajun dishes, making it one of the top Southern food restaurants in Toronto. The atmosphere at Southern Junction is rustic and warm, with wooden decor and Southern memorabilia that add to the authentic experience. Specialties include smoked brisket and the Louisiana gumbo, which are favorites among patrons for their depth of flavor and authenticity. Southern Junction’s dedication to traditional Southern cooking techniques and its warm, welcoming environment make it a prime destination for those seeking a genuine Southern meal in the heart of Toronto.
Key Takeaways
- Toronto offers a rich variety of Southern food restaurants, each bringing a unique twist to traditional Southern dishes. From Texas-style barbecue to Creole and Cajun flavors, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
- Many of these restaurants focus on authenticity, using traditional cooking methods like slow-smoking and wood firing to create genuine Southern tastes right in the heart of Toronto.
- The ambiance of these eateries ranges from rustic and cozy to modern and eclectic, each enhancing the dining experience with a vibe that complements their culinary offerings.
- Each restaurant has its specialties, whether it’s crispy chicken and waffles, smoky ribs, or gourmet Southern sliders. These signature dishes are a major draw for both locals and tourists.
- Several restaurants blend local Canadian ingredients with traditional Southern recipes, offering innovative dishes that stand out in Toronto’s competitive food scene.
- Some Southern food restaurants enhance their dining experience with live music and events, encapsulating the lively spirit of Southern culture.
- These restaurants not only serve food but also act as cultural hubs that celebrate and introduce Southern hospitality and cuisine to a broader audience in Toronto.
FAQs
- What are some must-try dishes at Southern food restaurants in Toronto?
Try the smoked brisket at Hogtown Smoke and the jerk chicken poutine at Harlem Underground. - Are there vegetarian options available at Southern food restaurants in Toronto?
Yes, many Southern restaurants like Southern Accent offer vegetarian dishes, including vegetarian jambalaya. - Which Southern food restaurant in Toronto is known for authentic Cajun and Creole flavors?
Southern Accent Restaurant is renowned for its authentic Cajun and Creole dishes. - Which Toronto Southern food restaurant has the best ambiance for a casual outing?
The laid-back, rustic vibe of The Stockyards is perfect for a casual meal. - Are there any Southern food restaurants near downtown Toronto?
The Carbon Bar, located in downtown Toronto, offers a range of Southern-inspired dishes. - Which Southern restaurant in Toronto offers the best craft beer selection?
Barque Smokehouse has a curated selection of craft beers to pair with their barbecue dishes. - Is there a place to get Southern-style fried chicken in Toronto?
The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles specializes in Northern-style fried chicken.