Toronto’s Michelin Guide has been updated to include a new list of extraordinary restaurants. It was only last year that the Michelin Guide finally acknowledged Toronto as a culinary powerhouse. Restaurants like Alo, Enigma, Quetzal, Aburi Hana and others were granted the illustrious Michelin star. Toronto is the most culturally diverse city in the world, so its no surprise our Michelin Guide reflects that.
As it stands, there are now 15 restaurants in Toronto that hold a Michelin star (or two) — in addition to 21 Bib Gourmands spread across the city. The announcement on September 27, 2023 added two new Michelin star restaurants and four Bib Gourmands. Read on to learn more about the Michelin Guide and this year’s recipients.
Related: Our Favourite Toronto Rooftop Bars and Restaurants
Michelin Guide
What is the purpose of the Michelin Guide?
After it’s debut in 1904, the Michelin Guide has grown in prestige as the expert source in finding top tier restaurants around the world. The Michelin is guide is a great indication that a restaurant will have excellent service, great atmosphere and phenomenal food.
What is the criteria to receive a Michelin star?
Michelin isn’t keen on sharing it’s private checklist and evaluation process, however we can speculate what these inspectors might be looking for. A few factors may include: the chef’s accolades and expertise in the kitchen; the restaurant’s level of innovation; the standard of service and food and the ability to infuse traditional practices into the cooking style. Overall, the entire dining experience is taken into account — we can only imagine how difficult the process must be.
Related: What It Takes To Become a 1, 2 or 3 Michelin Star Restaurant
What is a Bib Gourmand?
Though it is not a star, a Bib Gourmand classification is certainly something to be proud of. The restaurants who receive a Bib Gourmand are recognized for their achievement in creating delicious food for moderate pricing. So if you’re interested in trying food on a Michelin level for less, consider trying one of the many delicious Bib Gourmands in Toronto.
The 2023 Toronto Michelin star recipients
This year, Toronto’s Michelin Guide welcomed two new restaurants into the fold:
These restaurants exemplified the vision and passion necessary to receive a coveted Michelin star. In addition, four new Bib Gourmands were also added: White Lily Diner, Sunnys Chinese, BB’s and Tiflisi. For the first time in Canada, two restaurants were awarded a Michelin green star — this award highlights a restaurant leading the way in sustainability. The Michelin green star was awarded to both Frilu and White Lily Diner.
Other notable awards included:
Combined, the Toronto Michelin Guide now has 82 restaurants in selection: 15 of which hold at least one Michelin star, two dubbed sustainability leaders, 21 Bib Gourmands and 46 recommended. So whether you’re a local or just passing through, consider indulging in one (or more) of Toronto’s finest restaurants. Your food fantasy awaits.
To view the full announcement from Michelin, visit their website here.