Chinatown Must-Tries in Toronto

Did you know that Toronto’s Chinatown neighbourhood first started forming in the 1890s? Since then, Chinatown continues to grow as we know it and is now home to some of the best and cheap eats in Toronto. If you’re interested in diving into Chinese culture, Toronto’s Chinatown, which spans down several blocks of Spadina Ave., should be your first stop.

And what better way to learn about Chinese culture than through the food itself? Join us as we take you on a traditional food journey featuring all the must-try restaurants here in Chinatown. 

Rol San Restaurant

Step into Rol San and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere buzzing with the clatter of dim sum carts and the aroma of freshly steamed dumplings. This iconic spot is a favorite among locals for its extensive selection of traditional dim sum dishes, from succulent siu mai to delicate har gow. If you’re a first-timer, we specifically recommend the siu mai, har gow, deep fried shrimp dumplings, and steamed BBQ pork bun at Rol San. Best part? Unlike many dim sum spots which are offered during breakfast and lunch hours, Rol San offers all-day dim sum so you can visit anything you prefer. Don't miss the chance to experience the true essence of Cantonese cuisine here.

Mother’s Dumplings 

Mother’s Dumplings is our recommended spot if you’re looking for authentic dumplings. Tucked away on a quaint street corner, this hole-in-the-wall restaurant serves up handcrafted dumplings bursting with flavor. Whether you prefer them steamed, pan-fried, or boiled, you're sure to find a dumpling to satisfy your cravings. And it doesn’t end there! On the menu, you can also find entrees, Chinese pancakes, noodles, steamed buns, rice and congee, stews and soups, side dishes, and desserts. At Mother’s Dumplings, there will always be something made with love for everyone.

Juicy Dumplings

Dumplings are a staple dish in Chinese culture so naturally, we had to recommend a second spot for dumplings as well - Juicy Dumplings. Juicy Dumplings is a go-to spot for a quick takeout option opposed to dining in, and they are well known for their cheap prices. You can get an order of steamed soup dumplings (6 pieces) for $6.48 before taxes and pan-fried juicy buns (4 pieces) for $6.50 before taxes. They may be known for their pricing but you can also expect consistent and great quality at this restaurant as well.

Yin Ji Chang Fen

Sometimes, the simplest meals are the best meals. Yin Ji Chang Fen is a popular spot in the city known for their rice noodle rolls. They are silky, they are smooth, and they are filled with your favourite proteins and served with a sweet soy sauce on top. Yin Ji Chang Fen by far has the largest selection of rice noodle rolls where you can expect classic fillings such as shrimp, pork, and beef, as well as more unique fillings such as duck, corn, truffle mushroom, and beef brisket. A true rice noodle roll connoisseur would know to drown their rice noodle rolls in lots of sweet soy sauce. 

King’s Noodle Restaurant 

Whether you like soupy noodles, dry noodles, or saucy noodles, King’s Noodle Restaurant is your go-to spot for the ultimate noodle dish. What makes King’s Noodle so great is their long list of topping options for your noodles. Because they also operate as a Chinese BBQ shop, you can expect toppings such as BBQ pork, crispy pork belly, BBQ duck, and their housemade wontons. Love the toppings too much? You can even order them on their own as takeout! Each dish is a testament to the restaurant's dedication to authentic flavors and quality ingredients.

Liuyishou Hotpot

If it’s chilly outside and you’re looking for a meal to warm you and your heart, we recommend hot pot! You are served a broth that’s always boiling and you get to pick the types of protein and vegetables to cook in the broth. For the best experience, we recommend you visit Liuyishou Hotpot. They offer an abundant variety of broths, protein, and vegetables to choose from and the best part? They have a DIY sauce station. We can all agree that the hot pot dipping sauce ties the entire meal together and at Liuyishou, you can make your sauce (or sauces) just how you like it. 

Have we convinced you to do a food tour in Chinatown Toronto? Comment below which spot you’ll be visiting first or which spot you’ve already tried!

Stay tuned for next week’s blog post as we talk about Toronto food delivery apps for those days you just don’t feel like dining out. See you soon!