5 Best Indian Restaurants In Downtown Toronto
Explore the best Indian restaurants in Downtown Toronto, featuring fragrant curries, perfectly spiced biryanis, and culinary delights that kinda transport you to India.
Hello Torontonians! If you’re craving the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine in Toronto, then Downtown Toronto has some incredible restaurants that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From fragrant curries to perfectly spiced biryanis, you’ll find a variety of options that can transport you straight to the streets of India. Discover where you can enjoy the best Indian food in the heart of Toronto, and get ready for a culinary journey like no other.
Explore the best Indian restaurants in Downtown Toronto, featuring fragrant curries, perfectly spiced biryanis, and culinary delights that transport you to India.
Best Indian Restaurants In Downtown Toronto
Downtown Toronto is a culinary melting pot where you can satisfy your cravings for any cuisine imaginable. Among the plethora of dining options, Indian cuisine stands out for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and diverse dishes. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, finding the best Indian restaurants can be an exciting yet overwhelming task. I’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the bustling streets of Downtown Toronto and discover the top Indian dining spots. From traditional and authentic to modern and fusion, there’s something here for every palate. Let’s dig in!
Why Indian Cuisine?
Indian cuisine is known for its unique blend of spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients, making each dish flavorful and aromatic. From creamy butter chicken to spicy vindaloo and everything in between, the diverse regional dishes of India offer something for every taste preference. Additionally, Indian food accommodates various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
What to Expect at an Indian Restaurant
When you step into an Indian restaurant, you’re greeted with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and a warm welcome. Each dish is crafted with care, using traditional cooking methods passed down through generations. You might find a blend of North and South Indian dishes on the menu, offering a well-rounded experience of India’s culinary landscape.
Top 5 Indian Restaurants in Downtown Toronto
Whereas the above video has a different take for their top 3 (and I won’t lie, I like them too) but here’s a breakdown of some of the best Indian restaurants I personally liked in Downtown Toronto:
1. Pukka (778 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C 1B6)
Located in the heart of St. Clair West, Pukka offers a modern take on traditional Indian dishes. This spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy elevated Indian cuisine in a stylish and contemporary setting. The menu features a range of dishes, from street snacks to hearty mains and delicious desserts. Pukka’s innovative cocktails and extensive wine list make it a great spot for a memorable night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Chicken 65
- Tamarind-Glazed Lamb Ribs
- Mango Cheesecake
2. Kothur Indian Cuisine (649 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4Y 1Z9)
Nestled in the bustling Financial District, Kothur Indian Cuisine offers a wide variety of regional Indian dishes. Known for its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere, Kothur is a favorite among both locals and tourists. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create its mouth-watering dishes.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Paneer Tikka
- Butter Chicken
- Goat Curry
3. The Host Fine Indian Cuisine (87 Elm St, Toronto, ON M5G 0A8)
For an upscale dining experience, The Host is a must-visit. Located in Yorkville, this elegant restaurant is known for its impeccable service and exquisite dishes. The Host combines traditional Indian cooking techniques with contemporary presentation, resulting in a dining experience that’s both luxurious and satisfying.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Rogan Josh
- Tandoori Prawns
- Mango Pistachio Kulfi
4. Udupi Palace (1423 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1Z7)
If you’re craving South Indian cuisine, look no further than Udupi Palace. This cozy and unpretentious eatery specializes in vegetarian dishes from the Southern region of India, offering a unique contrast to the typically meat-heavy North Indian cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Masala Dosa
- Medu Vada
- Onion Uttapam
5. Banjara Indian Cuisine (796 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1L7)
Banjara Indian Cuisine is a popular spot known for its casual vibe and extensive menu, featuring dishes from both North and South India. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy curry or a rich biryani, Banjara has something to satisfy every craving.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Lamb Vindaloo
- Samosa Chaat
- Malai Kofta
Table: Comparison of Top Indian Restaurants
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which restaurant to visit first:
┌────────────┬────────────┬────────────┬────────────┬────────────┐
│ Restaurant │ Location │ Specialty │ Price │ Must-Try │
│ │ │ Cuisine │ Range │ Dish │
├────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┤
│ Pukka │ St. Clair │ Modern │ $$ │ Tamarind-G │
│ │ West │ Indian │ │ lazed Lamb │
│ │ │ │ │ Ribs │
├────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┤
│ Kothur │ Financial │ Traditiona │ $$ │ Butter │
│ Indian │ District │ l Indian │ │ Chicken │
│ Cuisine │ │ │ │ │
├────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┤
│ The Host │ Yorkville │ Fine │ $$$ │ Rogan Josh │
│ │ │ Dining │ │ │
│ │ │ Indian │ │ │
├────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┤
│ Udupi │ Little │ South │ $$ │ Masala │
│ Palace │ India │ Indian │ │ Dosa │
│ │ │ (Vegetaria │ │ │
│ │ │ n) │ │ │
├────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┼────────────┤
│ Banjara │ Christie │ North & │ $$ │ Lamb │
│ Indian │ Pits │ South │ │ Vindaloo │
│ Cuisine │ │ Indian │ │ │
└────────────┴────────────┴────────────┴────────────┴────────────┘
Hidden Gems to Explore
While the top 5 restaurants are certainly impressive, Downtown Toronto is home to several other hidden gems that deserve a visit. These lesser-known spots offer authentic flavors and unique experiences without the crowd.
6. Indian Street Food Co.
If you love the bustling vibe of Indian street food markets, you’ll feel right at home at Indian Street Food Co. Located on Bayview Avenue, this restaurant captures the essence of India’s vibrant street food culture. From pani puri to chaat and vada pav, you can indulge in all your favorite street eats.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Aloo Tikki Chaat
- Pav Bhaji
- Pani Puri
7. Leela Indian Food Bar
Leela Indian Food Bar offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere combined with an impressive menu of traditional Indian dishes. Located in the Junction, this restaurant is known for its welcoming staff and consistent quality. The portion sizes are generous, and the flavors are always on point.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Tandoori Chicken
- Chana Masala
- Garlic Naan
8. Cumin Kitchen
Another fantastic find in Leslieville, Cumin Kitchen is perfect for a relaxed dining experience. The restaurant offers a well-curated menu featuring classic Indian dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for a casual meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Chicken Korma
- Dal Makhani
- Gulab Jamun
9. MotiMahal Restaurant
Located on Dufferin Street, MotiMahal Restaurant is a cozy, family-run establishment that has been serving authentic Indian cuisine for years. The restaurant focuses on traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, ensuring every dish is packed with flavor.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Lamb Rogan Josh
- Palak Paneer
- Tandoori Mixed Grill
10. Little India Restaurant
Little India Restaurant, located in the Queen West neighborhood, offers a warm and inviting dining space combined with a menu of delectable Indian dishes. Known for their thalis (a platter of various dishes), this restaurant is perfect for those looking to sample a bit of everything.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Chicken Biryani
- Mixed Thali
- Kheer
Dining Tips for Indian Restaurants
When dining at an Indian restaurant, there are a few tips to keep in mind to enhance your experience:
Spice Levels
Indian cuisine is known for its robust use of spices, but that doesn’t always mean it’s spicy. Most restaurants offer the option to choose your spice level, so don’t hesitate to ask for mild, medium, or hot based on your preference.
Share Dishes
Indian meals are often enjoyed family-style, with shared dishes placed at the center of the table. This allows you to sample a variety of flavors and dishes. Order a mix of appetizers, mains, sides, and breads to get the full experience.
Roti and Naan
These delicious Indian breads are perfect for scooping up curries and sauces. Roti is a whole wheat flatbread, while naan is softer and often more buttery. Both are great choices to accompany your meal.
Experience The Flavors of India
Exploring Indian restaurants in Downtown Toronto is a sensory delight. The vibrant colors, rich aromas, and diverse flavors invite you to experience a culinary journey unlike any other. Each restaurant offers its unique touch, from traditional recipes to modern interpretations, ensuring that there’s always something new to try.
A Culinary Journey Worth Taking
Whether you’re in the mood for a luxurious dining experience or a quick street food snack, Downtown Toronto’s Indian restaurant scene has something to offer. The city’s diverse culinary landscape means you can savor the authentic flavors of India without ever leaving the city.
Conclusion
I hope your culinary journey through Downtown Toronto’s best Indian restaurants remain as exciting as mine and you discover the rich flavors, aromatic spices, and diverse dishes that make Indian cuisine so special. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, these restaurants are sure to provide an unforgettable dining experience.
Don’t forget to clap for this article if you found it helpful! Leave a comment to share your favorite Indian restaurant in Toronto and subscribe to my Medium newsletter for more updates on the city’s best dining spots. Happy eating!
