Grab a bite before or after the main event. Here are 10 great dining options near downtown’s Scotiabank Arena.
Toronto is one of the best foodie cities, so it’s really not difficult to find cool restaurants within walking distance of Scotiabank Arena. Whether you’re heading to the arena for a concert, show or game, book a table at any one of these restos and you’re sure to be well-fed for the evening ahead.
Best Italian restaurant: Aria
From the calamari fritti to spaghetti alli chittara and branzino served with puréed celeriac and Norcia lentils, you can easily overeat at Aria.
This beautiful, lofty Italian fine dining establishment is owned by the same restaurateurs as Queen Street West favourite Noce. But fret not: you can easily roll yourself and your full belly to Scotiabank Arena, as it’s right next door.
Best nachos: Real Sports
Hit up sports bar Real Sports—decked out with nearly 200 TVs and 100+ beer taps—for their classic nachos.
Each freshly fried pile of nacho chips is done up with a signature spice blend, housemade pico de gallo, shredded cheese blend, sour cream, pickled jalapenos and scallions. Add some more heft with toppings like chilli, guacamole, or jerk or roast chicken.
Best vegan restaurant: Fresh
Vegan Toronto folks luck out with plenty of flavourful options. Vegan pioneer Fresh has a location within walking distance of the arena (their crunchy quinoa onion wings and addictive Buffalo cauliflower are both legendary!).
And just over in Union Station, you’ll find plant-based options at WVRST. The casual beer and sausage hall offers three types of vegan sausage, which you can slap onto a toasted bun with sautéed garlic rapini, sweet peppers and other veggie toppings.
Best sushi: Miku
By the Harbourfront, splash out on some sushi at Miku Toronto. This Toronto outpost of the Japanese restaurant specializes in Aburi—flame-seared sushi. Trust us: once you’ve tasted the umami and smokiness that torching imbues the fish, you will need more of it in your life!
The sprawling 650 square metre (7,000 square foot) restaurant also offers its namesake Aburi Prime Sushi Set, a tasting experience, but you’ll want to plan for this multi-course (read: lengthy) dinner on a night you’re not heading to a show.
Best wine list: E11even
Boasting a 3,200-bottle wine list, E11even is a must-stop for vino before heading into Scotiabank Arena, a few steps away. Peruse the iPad at your table to help make your wine selection. However, if you need some guidance, one of E11even’s sommeliers is available to help you.
Feeling peckish? The menu features contemporary American classics such as BBQ baby back ribs, filet mignon and roast chicken to enjoy with your wine.
Best ramen: Sansotei Ramen
You won’t even need to step outdoors to grab ramen at Sansotei Ramen Union Station. Known for its pork-based Tonkotsu ramen, this noodle shop is the perfect spot to quickly slurp up a bowl before a short indoor stroll to the arena.
If someone in your group isn’t in the mood for noods, the York Street Promenade in Union Station has plenty of other options too, including Amano Italian Kitchen and Loaded Pierogi.
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Best tacos: La Carnita
The Entertainment District outpost of La Carnita is where you can get your fix of Mexican street corn, tacos (we recommend getting everything from fish to al pastor and sharing) and refreshing margaritas.
Designed by local street-style artists, this taco joint is known for its blaring music, so grab a seat on the patio if you want to chat through dinner. When you’re done, order a paletta for dessert and enjoy it on your 15-minute walk to Scotiabank Arena.
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Best seafood: Miller Tavern
Indulge your raw bar cravings at the Financial District location of Hogg’s Hollow institution Miller Tavern. Skip narrowing down your choices and just order the impressive seafood tower to share; it’s complete with a dozen oysters, six shrimp, tuna, crab claws and a whole lobster.
Folks who are not seafood-inclined won’t go hungry—the flat iron steak and mushroom risotto are just as deliciously satisfying!
Best brewhouse: Steam Whistle Kitchen
Grab a pint of Steam Whistle Pilsner or enjoy it with some San Pellegrino as a Blood Orange Shandy at the Steam Whistle Kitchen at the Roundhouse, a short walk from Scotiabank Arena.
The menu here is Canadian, highlighting pub classics such as fish and chips and peri-peri chicken. Can’t find a seat? Try the Taproom, which has some additional seating.
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Best cocktails: Fairmont Royal York Library Bar
Indulge in expertly crafted cocktails at the Fairmont Royal York’s Library Bar. The recently renovated space features a handsome Art Deco interior and an extensive, multi-themed cocktail menu with many zero-alcohol options.
The Hereafter, from the Auteurs menu, is particularly beguiling with its balance of Patron Blanco tequila, Aperol, watermelon, Los Siete Misterios, Mezcal, cilantro, soda and black salt. Opt for a few light bites to go with your drink, such as oysters on the half-shell and sourdough mushroom toast.
