Picture this: You've just checked into your stunning waterfront apartment, the CN Tower gleaming outside your window, and now you're wondering where to grab an unforgettable meal. As someone who manages short-term rentals in Toronto's most vibrant neighborhoods, I've spent years exploring every dining spot within walking distance of our properties. Trust me when I say that staying near the waterfront and CN Tower puts you in the heart of one of Canada's most exciting food scenes.

Whether you're a foodie couple seeking romance, a family looking for versatile options, or a business traveler wanting to impress clients, this guide has you covered. I've personally dined at each of these restaurants multiple times, and I'm excited to share the insider knowledge that makes Toronto dining truly special.

1. 360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower

Photo Credit: Stocksnap

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18 Duncan Street • www.cntower.ca/360restaurant • $$$$
Southern-style seafood & Canadian cuisine
Reservations required

Let's start with the obvious showstopper. Perched at the top of Canada's most iconic landmark, this revolving restaurant completes a full rotation every 72 minutes, treating you to ever-changing panoramic views while you dine. What sets it apart isn't just the view—it's the award-winning wine cellar that earned a Guinness World Record for being the highest in the world, and the commitment to fresh, locally-sourced Canadian ingredients.

The Pacific halibut paired with champagne cream is a standout, as is the Ontario lamb saddle. Here's a pro tip from my guests: your elevator ride to the restaurant includes complimentary access to the LookOut and Glass Floor levels, making it excellent value despite the upscale prices. Book a sunset reservation for the most magical experience.

Perfect for: Anniversary dinners, proposals, or that once-in-a-lifetime meal you'll never forget

2. Canoe Restaurant & Bar

Photo Credit: Tianlei Wu

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66 Wellington Street West, 54th Floor • canoerestaurant.com • $$$$
Contemporary Canadian cuisine
Reservations strongly recommended

Canoe has been defining Canadian fine dining for nearly three decades from its perch on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower. Executive chef Ron McKinlay showcases the best of Canadian terroir—from British Columbia spot prawns in spring to East Coast lobster in summer, and their famous seafood tower in winter.

What I love about Canoe is how they make elevated dining feel approachable. The Yabu Pushelberg design maximizes those breathtaking harbor views, and the staff genuinely care about your experience. Request a window seat when booking, and if you're on a budget, consider their weekday lunch menu which offers the same stellar views at friendlier prices.

Perfect for: Business lunches, special celebrations, or impressing out-of-town guests

3. Pai Northern Thai Kitchen

Photo Credit: CGXL MEDIA

18 Duncan Street • paitoronto.com • $$
Northern Thai street food
Walk-ins welcome, limited reservations

If you're craving bold flavors and a lively atmosphere, Chef Nuit Regular's Northern Thai sensation is a must-visit. This Michelin-recommended restaurant has been voted Best Thai Restaurant in Toronto several years running, and for good reason. The khao soi is rich and aromatic, the pad gra prow delivers serious spice, and their signature pad thai lives up to the hype.

Be prepared for waits—this place is incredibly popular. My advice? Arrive right when they open at 4 PM on weekdays, or put your name down and explore the neighborhood while you wait. The grabong (squash fritters) with tamarind dipping sauce make an excellent starter, and don't skip the Thai iced tea.

Perfect for: Casual group dinners, date nights with personality, or anyone who appreciates authentic Thai flavors

4. Queens Harbour

Photo Credit: Allen Y

245 Queens Quay West • queensharbour.ca • $$$
MediterAsian fusion with sushi bar
Reservations recommended

Toronto's waterfront dining scene got a major upgrade with this 23,000-square-foot stunner. Queens Harbour features Canada's largest retractable rooftop patio, three cocktail bars, and an interactive sushi bar serving dishes that blend Mediterranean soul with Asian traditions. The wagyu dumplings are phenomenal, and the charcoal-grilled selections showcase expert technique.

The space transitions beautifully from day to night, offering different vibes throughout. Grab a seat on the rooftop for unbeatable CN Tower views, or cozy up inside during cooler months. The cocktail program is creative and worth exploring.

Perfect for: Groups celebrating milestones, summer patio dining, or Instagram-worthy meals

5. Amsterdam Brewhouse

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245 Queens Quay West • amsterdambeer.com • $$
Craft brewery with pub fare
Walk-ins welcome, reservations for large groups

As Toronto's largest waterfront brewery, Amsterdam Brewhouse delivers on both beer and atmosphere. With four outdoor patios overlooking the Toronto Islands, it's the perfect spot for a casual afternoon or evening. The menu features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with something for everyone—from their famous brewpub burger to vegetarian options.

The craft beer selection is extensive (they brew on-site), and the service is consistently friendly. It's especially magical during summer when you can enjoy lake breezes with your pint. Winter visits are cozy too, with two brewery bars and a fireplace inside.

Perfect for: Families, casual meetups with friends, or post-CN Tower visit refreshments

6. Minami Restaurant

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80 Blue Jays Way • aburirestaurants.com/minami • $$$
Contemporary Japanese with Aburi focus
Reservations strongly recommended

This Vancouver import brought their signature flame-seared Aburi sushi to Toronto's King West neighborhood, and the city hasn't been the same since. The sleek, sultry interior earned recognition as one of America's Best Designed Restaurants, while the food speaks for itself. The Aburi Oshi sushi is a must-try—torched to perfection and bursting with umami.

They now offer sushi lunch sets and multi-course tasting menus that showcase chef Seigo Nakamura's expertise. The cocktail program complements the menu beautifully. It's upscale without being stuffy, making it ideal for both special occasions and indulgent weeknight dinners.

Perfect for: Sophisticated date nights, sushi lovers, or anyone seeking elevated Japanese cuisine

7. KŌST

255 Bremner Boulevard, 44th Floor • bisha.com/kost • $$$
Baja-inspired California coastal
Reservations recommended

Escape to the California coastline without leaving Toronto. KŌST's rooftop setting on the 44th floor offers stunning CN Tower views alongside Baja-inspired cuisine that feels fresh and vibrant. The seasonal menu showcases coastal flavors—think ceviche, grilled fish, and creative vegetable preparations.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it's versatile enough to accommodate any craving. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between relaxed and refined. Sunset reservations are particularly coveted for good reason.

Perfect for: Brunch enthusiasts, health-conscious diners, or romantic dinners with a view

8. Byblos Downtown

11 Duncan Street • byblostoronto.com • $$$
Eastern Mediterranean
Reservations recommended

Chef Stuart Cameron brings the flavors of the eastern Mediterranean coast to life at this sophisticated spot. The menu is designed for sharing, featuring everything from delicate mezzes to wood-fired entrées. The grilled octopus is exceptional, and the lamb dishes showcase expert spice blending.

The bar program is equally impressive, with creative cocktails that complement the cuisine. Service is attentive without being intrusive, and the ambiance walks that fine line between energetic and intimate.

Perfect for: Adventurous eaters, date nights, or anyone who loves Mediterranean flavors

9. The Goodman Pub and Kitchen

Photo Credit: Juan Rojas

245 Queens Quay West • thegoodmanpubandkitchen.com • $$
Elevated gastropub
Walk-ins welcome, reservations available

This harbourfront gem elevates classic pub fare to new heights. The wrap-around patio offers spectacular lake views, while the interior combines warm wood tones with nautical charm. The menu delivers refined comfort food—think gourmet burgers, fresh fish and chips, and creative seasonal specials.

What I appreciate most is the versatility. It works equally well for a casual lunch, celebratory dinner, or drinks with friends. The covered patio operates year-round, so you can enjoy waterfront views even in winter.

Perfect for: Families, casual business meals, or anyone seeking quality pub food with a view

10. Miku Toronto

10 Bay Street, Suite 105 • mikurestaurant.com • $$$
Japanese with Aburi specialization
Reservations essential

Another stellar addition to Toronto's Japanese dining scene, Miku specializes in Aburi—a flame-searing technique that caramelizes fish while keeping it buttery and raw inside. Their Salmon Oshi is legendary, featuring pressed sushi topped with flame-seared salmon that practically melts in your mouth.

The waterfront location provides stunning harbor views, and the attention to detail extends from the food to the service. Their commitment to Ocean Wise certified seafood ensures sustainability alongside exceptional quality. The wagyu striploin is another standout if you're in the mood for something beyond sushi.

Perfect for: Sushi purists, special occasions, or impressing Japanese cuisine enthusiasts

11. Pearl Harbourfront Chinese Cuisine

207 Queens Quay West • pearlcourt.ca • $$
Cantonese dim sum and seafood
Reservations recommended for weekends

Since 1983, Pearl has been serving award-winning Cantonese cuisine with panoramic waterfront views. The dim sum service is exceptional—arrive early on weekends for the full cart experience. The turnip cakes are perfectly crispy, the har gow (shrimp dumplings) are delicate masterpieces, and the BBQ pork buns stay fluffy and sweet.

Beyond dim sum, their seafood preparations showcase Cantonese technique at its finest. The Peking duck requires advance ordering but rewards with crispy skin and tender meat. It's family-friendly, with large round tables perfect for sharing.

Perfect for: Family gatherings, dim sum lovers, or anyone seeking authentic Cantonese cuisine

12. Steam Whistle Kitchen

255 Bremner Boulevard • steamwhistle.ca • $$
Upscale pub food in a brewery setting
Walk-ins welcome

Housed in a former bottling area with a kids' menu to boot, Steam Whistle Kitchen offers upscale pub grub in a unique industrial-chic setting. The pilsner is crisp and refreshing (brewed on-site, of course), and the menu goes beyond standard pub fare with creative seasonal dishes.

The exposed brick and brewing equipment create interesting ambiance, while the proximity to both the CN Tower and Rogers Centre makes it convenient for pre or post-event dining. Service is speedy and friendly, accommodating both families and groups.

Perfect for: Pre-game meals, brewery enthusiasts, or families with kids

Make Your Toronto Visit Unforgettable

Toronto's dining scene is as diverse as the city itself, and staying in our waterfront properties puts you within walking distance of all these incredible restaurants. From Michelin-recommended Thai street food to rotating restaurants atop the CN Tower, you're perfectly positioned to experience the best Toronto has to offer.

Ready to book your stay? Our short-term rental apartments combine the comfort of home with unbeatable proximity to these dining destinations. Wake up to CN Tower views, stroll the waterfront, and enjoy having Toronto's culinary treasures right at your doorstep.

Book Your Waterfront Stay Today and start planning your Toronto food adventure. Trust me—after managing these properties and exploring every restaurant in the neighborhood, I can tell you there's no better base for experiencing the city.

Looking for more Toronto insider tips? Follow us on Instagram @guestichospitality for monthly restaurant features, neighborhood guides, and exclusive guest discounts at select dining partners.