🕒 6 min read

If there was ever a year to get outside, it’s 2020. And one of the best places in the city to catch some rays and stunning sights, is Toronto’s Waterfront.

Not only is the water’s edge beautiful; studies show just being near water benefits you both mentally and physically. Need to de-stress or instill some calm in these chaotic times? Head for the lake.

Since travel is limited at this time, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore life at lake’s edge. And it turns out, it’s recently turned into quite the destination for food lovers. Take a look:

Be a tourist in your own city

There are so many attractions close by - many of which are free, including Sugar Beach, Harbourfront, and the Toronto Music Garden. Whether you’re hopping on a boat or hanging out at the park, there are plenty of tantalizing options for meals and refreshments from the break of dawn to late night. Whatever you’re craving – fried chicken, pizza, burgers, coffee, cocktails, bubble tea, ice cream, dessert, ramen, sushi – the Waterfront’s got it. 

Take a look:

But first, coffee

Looking for a caffeine fix? Mos Mos Coffee, We Brew Café, and Touti Gelati and Café are just a few cafes located near the water. Enjoy your cup while taking in the breathtaking views.

Brunch goals

Going for a walk/run/bike ride along the water’s edge? Kupfert & Kim and Impact Kitchen offer nutrient-rich, healthy dishes that don’t sacrifice flavour. Bonus: Impact Kitchen’s patio is pet-friendly, so the whole family can come! 

And Pearl Harbourfront’s award-winning dim sum comes with spectacular views. Win-win.

Grab and go

Don’t have time to linger over a meal? Grab a quick bite - handheld gyro from Alexandros Take-Out, roti at Indian Roti House - and don’t forget dessert – BeaverTails’ iconic Canadian pastries, frozen treats from The Fix Ice Cream Bar, or artisan housemade gelato or sorbetto from Lick It Gelato, to start.

New and noteworthy

Due to consumer demand, bubble tea shops have been swiftly opening in the downtown core the last few years. Recent arrivals to Queens Quay West include Bubble Baby and Cuppa Tea.

Nashville Hot Chicken, the spicy southern treat, has caught on with foodies in the GTA. See if you can stand the heat at the Waterfront’s new Chen Chen’s Nashville Chicken located inside LQ Market.

The fifth and newest location of Kinka Izakaya on Harbour St. brings the energetic excitement of the popular Japanese pub just steps from the water’s edge. Delight in delectable tapas-style fare pared with premium Japanese sake, craft beer, and cocktails on the patio or in the dining room.

Kinton Ramen’s acclaimed Japanese noodle soups including  Immune Booster Ramen and Souper Negi-Gomanen keep you warm while helping to fight off colds and flus.

High-end steakhouse The Butcher Chef offers a decadent experience that elevates date night. Fine cuts of beef and seafood are available a la carte or via tasting menus, alongside an extensive wine list and award-winning scotch whiskies. 

And LQ Market is set to open soon. The expansive location formerly home to Loch and Quay, is transforming into a commissary and food hall at the end of the month. Current occupants Loch and Quay and Chen Chen’s Nashville Chicken will soon welcome neighbours Cupcake Central and Taste d West Indies, offering selections available for takeout and delivery.

Patio season extended

While the temperature may be dropping, the forecast calls for sun-soaked days remain throughout autumn. Spend time lakeside outside on the patio before the cold weather arrives. With outdoor heaters and ‘BYOB’ – bring-your-own-blanket policies in full effect, you can explore new bars and restaurants, and revisit old favourites, while staying warm.  

The Waterfront is home to some of the city’s largest patios, with social distancing and safety measures in effect, so relax and unwind while taking in the spectacular views on The Slip’s 250-seat patio. Amsterdam BrewHouse on Harbourfront boasts four large outdoor patios and views of the Toronto Islands.

In the mood for pub fare and draft brews? Head for The Goodman Pub & Kitchen and Against the Grain patios.

Joe Bird’s popular patio options are mostly of the chicken variety, but vegetarians can breathe a sigh of relief thanks to thoughtfully composed salads, veggie sando and meatless chili. And dine outside while tucking into pizza and pasta at Pie Bar. 

Boxcar Social’s third outpost, built in partnership with Harbourfront Centre, brings their renowned coffee and alcohol program lakeside - along with charcuterie, cheese board, burgers (choose vegan or beef) and other enticing nibbles.

In search of finer fare? Harbour 60 may not be lakeside, but the steakhouse continues to top ‘Best Of’ lists. And Miku’s aburi (torched sushi), kaiseki (aburi tasting menu), and modern interior set it apart from the crowd. 

Scenic views no extra charge

Staying close to home this year doesn’t have to be lacklustre.  Whether you’re in search of a peaceful getaway or exciting adventure, head to the Waterfront and take in the spectacular views while dining lakeside - no passport required.

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This article was created by Toronto Restaurants and sponsored by The Waterfront BIA. All content is original and views our own. 

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