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Defining Canadian food is as challenging as it is easy to devour. It’s a cuisine made up of a mix of other cuisines, each coming from different regions or lineages. The earliest comes from the indigenous First Nations community, then the Colonial influence with English and French cuisines being really popular and finally, the many global cultures that migrated to Canada bringing with them their own flavours.
While poutine, maple syrup and smoked salmon are considered national Canadian food, you’re just as likely to find the best food in Canada at an Indian or Japanese restaurant. And your favourite meal could be breakfast, lunch or dinner! That this holiday will be a treat for your taste buds, is a given. Now all that’s left is to decide which out of the myriad restaurants in Canada should make your itinerary. To simplify your choice, here’s our pick of the lot.
The best Canadian food is an amalgamation of cuisines from all over the world. Even during your holiday, you’ll get to sample other parts of the world – albeit from your plate! You can simply walk in to most of these restaurants for a meal, but if any do require prior reservations, SOTC can help with the arrangements with best Canada tour packages.
A summers day or a winters night, a bowl of Vietnamese noodle soup is always super comforting and delicious. And at Pho Tây Hô, you’ll find Montreal’s best version of it. But there’s also great salads, platters and traditional preparations.
Tip: You must sample the Vietnamese Coffee with condensed milk.
If you’ve missed breakfast, simply head to Le Vieux Vélo in Montreal, one of nicest restaurants in Canada for a delicious brunch or lunch, where you can expect nothing less than the perfect eggs benedict amongst other standards like salads, soups and sandwiches.
If you want popular Canadian food on the cheap without any compromise on flavour or ambience, head over to The Pawn Shop on Granville. Great location, lively atmosphere and some of the best nachos you’ll ever taste!
Tip: Time your visit to fall during Happy Hours and make the most of their daily drink specials.
One of the best restaurants in Canada to try something out of the usual – Mongolian cuisine. Dishes are custom-made, so you can pick and choose which meats, veggies and staples you want in your stir-fry. Perfect for big groups or families, so everyone gets what they want!
Make your way to Parc-Extension’s famed Indian eatery, Bombay Mahal, where from the famed thalis to favourite light bites like pakoras and samosas, you’ll find every dish seasoned with Indian generosity and warmth just as much the spices.
Delicious homemade Canadian food can be found at this quaint Whistler restaurant that you’ll find hidden inside a bookstore. Meals here are nutritious yet flavourful so a good option if you’re with kids or you’re simply looking for a healthy option.
With just 30 seats, you’d have to be on time for this exceptional diner experience in the heart of Toronto. Sandwiches, pancakes, biscuits or sausages, get all your favourites at a very affordable price and unpretentiously prepared.
Tip: End your meal on a sweet note, with one of the fresh-made donuts.
Toronto is home to some of the top restaurants in Canada and Kay Pacha certainly ranks on that list, for its delectable Peruvian inspired menu. From raw fish preparations like ceviche to traditional dishes like huancaina, a spicy cheese sauce – delve into authentic South American flavours all the way in North America!
A local favourite, La Cantina serves up lip-smacking authentic Mexican food in a casual friendly setting with prices to match! Whatever dish you choose, pair it with one of their much-loved frozen margaritas – you won’t regret it!
You can almost taste Naples as you bite into the perfect thin crust slice with all the ideal toppings, found at this wonderful and popular pizzeria. If you’re looking for something light on the pocket yet filling where it counts, this is surely one of the places to eat in Canada.
An intimate candle-lit meal that tastes just as good as the moment – that’s Edulis. Sample local and seasonal ingredients like seafood and veggies, that are equally fresh. For the quality and dining experience, this meal is truly worth it.
Bagels are definitely considered a staple Canadian food, so a stop at Kettleman’s Bagel Co. is a must if you’re in the capital. Get yours just the way you like – simple with cream cheese or loaded with stuffing. The cost remains reasonable either way.
Japanese cuisine is really popular in Canada, so you’ll always find great dining options in any city you visit. Uji Café is one such restaurant in the capital city, Ottawa. Get all the usual favourites at a great price, like the Katsu Burger or sushi.
After visiting the Niagara Falls, you’re going to need a place to sit and reflect on the marvel you’ve just witnessed. That’s when you should make your way to Paris Crepes Café for its relaxed bistro style set up and menu of both sweet and savoury pancakes amongst other French classics.