Whether you call it a classic martini, a craft cocktail, or a perfectly mixed drink, you probably already know that a great bar is the heart of any neighborhood. But you might need a little help finding the best old fashioned or a proper negroni in Etobicoke these days. That’s where this guide comes in.
Lot41 Social Bar & Table
$$ | (416) 244-1711 | WEBSITE
Tucked away on the ground floor of a hotel in Etobicoke, Lot41 Social Bar & Table might not be the most obvious destination, but once you find it, you’ll be glad you made the trip. This welcoming spot has become a local favorite for its comfortable atmosphere and reliably good food. Every visit should begin with the lamb chops appetizer, with its perfect balance of sweet and Dijon mustard, but it’s their Lot41 burger we’ll be craving for days afterward.
It’s juicy, flavorful, and served with excellent fries that hit just the right note. Round out your meal with some Tuscan pizza or the very good salmon, and you’ll understand why so many return after a day of work.
Pizzeria Via Napoli
$ | (416) 602-4040 | WEBSITE
Pizzeria Via Napoli is a charming pizzeria in Etobicoke. This delightful neighborhood spot is consistently excellent for a casual lunch, family dinner, or a cozy date night. Pizzeria Via Napoli feels like a warm Italian trattoria, with a welcoming dining area and a lovely back patio next to the wood-burning oven. Servers hum along to classic Italian tunes as they carry plates of Neapolitan pizza and creamy risotto to happy diners.
The kitchen also offers great gluten-free options, including pasta, honoring the tradition of Neapolitan cuisine and the artisans who perfected it.
Toast On Bloor
$$ | (416) 602-5568 | WEBSITE
Toast On Bloor isn’t technically a cocktail bar, but this charming restaurant serves some of the best simple meals in Etobicoke. Throughout the day, you can eat a Montreal smoked meat sandwich or a massive breakfast burrito with beans, eggs, bacon, rice, and avocado here while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. And without a doubt, the owner will personally introduce herself and engage you in friendly conversation.
The place itself has such positive energy that it’s always filled with Toronto regulars savoring tasty food and having pleasant conversations, though the noise level might challenge those with hearing issues. You’ll leave feeling like a regular, even on your first visit.
Cactus Club Cafe Sherway Gardens
$$ | (416) 621-0203 | WEBSITE
Long before it became a go-to spot in the Sherway Gardens area, Cactus Club Cafe had already built a reputation for lively dining. This popular chain opened its Sherway Gardens location to bring its fun atmosphere and delicious dishes to Etobicoke, quickly becoming a favorite for those seeking a vibrant night out. A true local hotspot, Cactus Club has helped make Rob’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich a must-try item, and that’s exactly what we order every time we’re here.
Whether you come for happy hour or a weekend dinner, settle into one of their comfortable booths, enjoy the restaurant’s energetic vibe, and savor every bite of their signature sandwich.
Twin Fish
$$ | (416) 695-8866 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in Etobicoke, Twin Fish is a neighborhood treasure open for lunch and dinner throughout the week. The must-try here is the Bangkok style Pad Thai with chicken and shrimp: tender noodles with generous portions of meat in a perfectly balanced sauce that’s flavorful without being greasy. The other dishes shine just as brightly, from the rich pumpkin soup to the red curry bursting with pineapple and beef to the Thai spring rolls with their addictive chili sauce.
Takeout is always an option, but we prefer settling into the cozy, welcoming dining room—order a drink and appreciate the Christian music playing softly in the background, adding to the comforting atmosphere.
Crosswinds Restaurant and Bar
$$ | (416) 675-9444 | WEBSITE
Located inside the Westin Toronto, Crosswinds Restaurant and Bar offers a wonderful dining experience with great service and hospitality. The restaurant feels like one big comfortable lounge, but there’s also ample seating for anyone who prefers a quiet corner to relax and unwind. Come to this convenient hotel spot for dishes like Cesar salad, cauliflower pizza crust, and strong drinks. Be sure to stop by late if you’re a traveler looking for a comfortable place to grab a bite or a drink.
Chiang Mai Thai Kitchen
$$ | (647) 748-8424 | WEBSITE
Chiang Mai Thai Kitchen is a standout Thai restaurant in Etobicoke, with one location that’s become a local favorite for special occasions. Our go-to spot is their classy dining room, which has a super cool atmosphere perfect for a memorable night out—ideal for a group meal centered around their famous pad thai, a star dish that tastes like a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy.
A close runner-up is their chicken panang curry, plus other delights like crispy chili chicken, shrimp Islamic noodles, and Khao surf and turf. Sit at a well-lit table near the entrance if you want to soak in the vibrant energy, or grab a booth in the back for a little more intimacy. Reservations are advised, especially on weekends, due to its popularity, and you might even be surprised with a complimentary dessert if you’re celebrating something special.
Dotty’s
If we were to describe Dotty’s in two words, we’d call it “refined simplicity.” The Junction Triangle restaurant focuses on serving classic comfort food with straightforward menus that are executed exceptionally well. The steak here is one of the best in the neighbourhood, the cheeseburger hits the spot, and the hamachi crudo tastes even better than it sounds. Dotty’s is open for dinner service, but the best time to come in is for a casual evening meal.
That’s when the cozy dining room buzzes with neighbourhood energy and the patio offers a relaxed spot to enjoy those insane fries alongside a perfectly crafted Dotty’s Ginger Beer.