Toronto is a culinary hub bursting with flavors from around the globe, and the city’s thriving Korean food scene is no exception. Whether you’re craving sizzling Korean BBQ, a comforting bowl of kimchi stew, or the sweet and spicy kick of tteokbokki, Toronto has plenty to offer. In this guide, we’ll explore the 7 best Korean restaurants that blend traditional recipes with modern twists, ensuring every bite is an unforgettable experience. From casual eateries to upscale dining spots, these places showcase the rich and diverse flavors of Korean cuisine, making them a must-visit for food lovers looking to indulge in everything from banchan to soju cocktails.
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1. Ka Chi Korean Restaurant
- Korean restaurant
- Restaurant
Why we chose them
KACHI stands out as a go-to destination for authentic Korean cuisine in Toronto. Known for its traditional fare, this restaurant brings the rich flavors of Korea to the table, offering classic dishes such as Bulgogi Hot Stone Pot Bibimbap, Spicy Rice Cake, and Kimchi Pancake with Pork. With a focus on quality and authenticity, the menu caters to both dine-in and delivery options, ensuring customers can enjoy their favorite Korean meals conveniently through services like SkipTheDishes.
As a simple yet inviting spot, the restaurant offers an immersive culinary experience that highlights the essence of Korean culture through its food. Whether you’re craving a hearty bibimbap or something spicy to excite your taste buds, this establishment is dedicated to serving a wide range of delicious options. Perfect for both casual diners and food enthusiasts, it has earned a place in our directory for delivering flavorful dishes with an emphasis on tradition.
2. Chicken in the Kitchen
- Korean restaurant
- Bar
- Chicken wings restaurant
- Fried chicken takeaway
- Restaurant
Why we chose them
Chicken in the Kitchen stands out as a vibrant destination for lovers of Korean BBQ and drinks. Known for its award-winning Korean fried chicken, this restaurant combines traditional flavors with a modern, lively atmosphere. Whether you’re craving perfectly crispy chicken wings, a hearty Korean barbecue, or a refreshing drink from their bar, the establishment offers a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. The engaging ambiance and expertly crafted dishes make it a must-visit spot for both casual diners and food enthusiasts alike.
3. Mapo Gamjatang
- Korean restaurant
Why we chose them
Mapo Gamjatang is a renowned Korean restaurant specializing in authentic pork bone soup, located in North York and Scarborough. With a rich culinary heritage spanning over 50 years, the restaurant proudly carries forward the recipes passed down through three generations from the famous Mapo House in Seoul’s Namseongsagye Market. Dedicated to preserving tradition, Mapo Gamjatang delivers a genuine taste of Korea to Toronto, making it a favorite destination for lovers of hearty and flavorful Korean cuisine.
The restaurant offers both dine-in and online ordering options, ensuring convenience for its customers. Known for its commitment to quality and authenticity, the restaurant serves dishes crafted with care, maintaining the high standards that earned its predecessors acclaim. Whether you’re seeking a comforting bowl of pork bone soup or other delicious Korean specialties, Mapo Gamjatang promises an exceptional dining experience steeped in tradition and taste.
4. The Owl on Bloor
- Korean restaurant
Why we chose them
The Owl on Bloor stands out as a 24-hour Korean restaurant located in Toronto’s Koreatown. Known for its independence from franchise chains, this establishment proudly emphasizes its unique identity, having been sold in 2003 before the North York Owl of Minerva franchise began. Specializing in authentic Korean cuisine, the restaurant has carved out a reputation for its flavorful dishes, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for diners at any hour of the day or night.
A highlight of their menu is the signature Gamja-tang (Pork Bone Soup), a spicy and hearty Korean classic made with pork neck or spine bones, potatoes, cellophane noodles, and a variety of flavorful ingredients such as dried radish greens, perilla leaves, hot peppers, and ground sesame seeds. The dish, packed with bold flavors and tender meat, showcases the restaurant’s dedication to traditional Korean culinary excellence, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience.
5. Seoulicious
- Korean restaurant
Why we chose them
Seoulicious stands out as a modern cafe specializing in authentic Korean eats and soju, offering a vibrant culinary experience in downtown Toronto. Known for its carefully curated menu, the restaurant features an array of Korean delicacies, from sizzling barbecue and spicy kimchi to comforting bibimbap and hearty stews. Guests can immerse themselves in Korean culture through flavorful dishes and traditional drinks like rice wine and ice-cold soju. With a cozy atmosphere and a reputation for impeccable service, the restaurant provides a welcoming space for diners seeking both authentic flavors and a memorable dining experience.
6. Gyodong Restaurant
- Korean restaurant
Why we chose them
Gyodong Restaurant stands out as an authentic Korean-Chinese dining destination nestled in downtown Toronto. Renowned for its fusion cuisine, the restaurant specializes in a variety of expertly crafted dishes that combine traditional Korean and Chinese flavors. Guests can indulge in an array of fried dishes, including the iconic Tangsuyouk (deep-fried pork with sweet and sour sauce and vegetables) and its variations, such as MaNeul Tangsuyouk with extra garlic and Chikin Tangsuyouk made with chicken. Additionally, Gyodong offers unique creations like Yoo Rin Gi, featuring deep-fried chicken thighs with sweet and sour soy sauce, and Kkan Ppungi, a spicy variation sure to delight those seeking bold flavors.
Beyond its fried specialties, the restaurant offers a rich menu of noodle and rice dishes designed to satisfy diverse palates. Signature items like JapChae, stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables and beef, showcase Gyodong’s dedication to authentic preparation and quality ingredients. With its inviting atmosphere and a drink menu to complement its flavorful offerings, Gyodong is the ideal spot for those craving a genuine Korean-Chinese culinary experience in the heart of Toronto.
7. Awesome Tteokbokki
- Korean restaurant
Why we chose them
Awesome Tteokbokki(Yonge St.) is a vibrant Korean restaurant celebrated for delivering authentic Korean street food to the heart of Toronto. Known for crafting the best tteokbokki and kimbap in town, this establishment offers a true taste of Korea with dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Its dedication to authenticity and quality has made it a go-to spot for food lovers craving traditional Korean cuisine.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy, savory, or comforting flavors, this restaurant has something to excite your taste buds. From its signature tteokbokki to its expertly prepared kimbap, every dish is created with care and attention to detail. Perfect for casual dining or a quick bite, this Korean gem excels in bringing the essence of street food culture to the local community.
Frequently asked questions
Most Korean restaurants in Toronto provide dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, private dining, and some even offer all-you-can-eat options. Be sure to check if they accommodate specific dietary needs or host special events.
The average price for Korean food in Toronto ranges from €7–€15 for casual dishes like bibimbap or tteokbokki, while premium dining experiences with Korean BBQ or multi-course meals can cost €25–€45 per person.
Look for restaurants that prioritize traditional recipes, use high-quality Korean ingredients, and have chefs experienced in authentic Korean cooking. Reading customer reviews and checking for dishes like banchan and kimchi stew can also help.
Yes, many Korean restaurants in Toronto offer vegetarian and gluten-free options. Common vegetarian dishes include kimchi fried rice with tofu or vegetarian bibimbap. Always confirm with the restaurant about specific dietary accommodations.
For dine-in, expect a wait time of 10–30 minutes during peak hours, depending on the popularity of the restaurant. Takeout orders are generally prepared within 15–45 minutes, but this can vary based on the complexity of the dishes.
To find the perfect spot, consider the restaurant’s ambiance, menu variety, customer reviews, and whether they offer private dining options. Some upscale Korean restaurants specialize in curated menus and personalized service for special occasions.
Yes, many Korean restaurants provide catering services for events, offering customizable menus that include popular dishes like Korean BBQ, bulgogi, and kimchi pancakes. Be sure to inquire about portion sizes, pricing, and delivery options.
Several Korean restaurants in Toronto offer all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ, with prices typically ranging from €25–€35 per person. This usually includes unlimited meat selections, side dishes, and sauces for a full dining experience.