One of the best parts of travel is experiencing the unique cuisine each destination has to offer. However, plane tickets these days can cost an arm and a leg, and jet-setting is a lifestyle not everyone can afford; but who says you need to travel thousands of miles to taste authentic pad thai or traditional carbonara?
Come along as we embark on a culinary adventure right in Toronto’s Riverside neighbourhood. Let’s go on a (food) trip to just a few of the incredible selection of culinary delights right here!
Photo credit: Il Ponte Cucina Italiana
Italy | Il Ponte – Cucina Italiana (@ilponte.to)
Address: 625 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1G7
Did you know? ‘Il Ponte. translates to ‘The Bridge’ as the restaurant is named after the bridge over the Don River. They are strongly rooted in the local community. They have a well curated selection of pizzas and pastas, from the understated Margherita Pizza to the indulgent Linguine alle Vongole, which comes with a generous portion of fresh clams. They offer set dinner menus as well and on Tuesdays they have a half priced wine bottle special (limit of 2 per table).
Photo credit: BlessedLove Caribbean Grocery and Takeout
Jamaica | BlessedLove Caribbean Grocery and Takeout (@shopblessedlove)
Address: 753A Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H3
Two words: Jerk chicken. You can have it the old fashioned way with rice and peas; for something more grab-and-go, get it as a sandwich or as a poutine. BlessedLove also serves oxtail, goat curry, ackee & saltfish, fried plantain, patties (meat and vegetarian options) and all the good stuff!
Photo credit: Isaan Der Thai Kitchen & Bar
Thailand | Isaan Der – Thai Kitchen & Bar (@isaan_der)
Address: 730 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H2
You can’t go wrong with their featured items such as Khao Soi, Som Tum or Papaya Salad, and Fish Panang Curry. Finish on a sweet note with Mango Coconut Sticky Rice. For spicy dishes, you can have the heat level adjusted, from mild to ‘Thai spicy’.
Photo credit: Delhiites Indian Street Food
India | Delhiites Indian Street Food (@delhiitesindianstreetfood)
Address: 717 Queen St E Unit 1/2, Toronto, ON M4M 1H1
The name says it all: Delhiites, just steps from Broadview Ave on Queen E serves no-nonsense Indian food such as samosas, momos, biryani, as well as Hakka Chinese dishes. The Butter Chicken Momos, Goat Biryani, Vegetable Manchurian, and Chaat Papdi are just some of the stellar dishes you can find on the menu.
Photo credit: Kismet Turkish Restaurant
Turkey | Kismet Turkish Restaurant (@kismetturkishrestaurant)
Address: 782 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H4
They’ve got the Turkish classics down: from doner kebab and meatballs or kofte to lahmacun and pide, which are Turkish pizza and flatbread respectively. Make sure to leave room for dessert because Kismet’s Trilece–their take on the tres leches cake–is a must-try.
Photo credit: La Carnita
Mexico | La Carnita (@la_carnita)
Address: 780 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H4
La Carnita makes tacos with a wide variety of proteins to choose from, such as carne asada, baja shrimp, and even sweet potato. If you prefer a crunchier alternative to the taco, opt for the tostada. Stop by between 4pm and 6pm any day of the week for happy hour.
So the next time wanderlust sets in or a particular craving hits, head over to Riverside and let your appetite choose the next destination.
Follow @riverside_bia for drool-worthy content and updates on dining experiences in the neighborhood!