If you love poutine, you’re in for a real treat. This article will show you the best places in the city to enjoy this delicious dish that will make you say “Wow!”
From classic fries covered in gravy and cheese curds to fun new versions that will surprise your taste buds, we’ve got it all.
Toronto has a ton of different food choices, and poutine is one of the best. We’ve picked 12 awesome places where you can try the best poutine in Toronto, each offering their own special twist on this Canadian favorite. So let's get started!
1. NomNomNom Poutine
Tucked away in a small corner, NomNomNom Poutine is hard to miss, it takes French street food to the next level.
This little stall has gained a big reputation, winning the title of Toronto's Best Poutine from blogTO and making it into Yelp's Top 100 Places To Eat In Canada for 2024.
At NomNomNom, they focus on poutine and offer a variety of options that will leave you craving more.
You can enjoy large, tasty cheese curds that have a distinctive texture when you bite into them, paired with crispy, thin fries that stay crunchy even under a generous pour of gravy.
Ordering is super easy at their kiosk, and you can pay with cash right at the window. Once you have your poutine, find a seat at one of the picnic tables with sun shades or on a bench to enjoy your meal outside.
One of their standout dishes is the Jerk Chicken Poutine, which brings a burst of Jamaican flavors and is served hot and fresh.
The portions are huge, making it great for sharing, though you might want to keep it all to yourself. The service is quick and friendly, just like you'd expect from good street food.
If you're vegetarian, you can go for the traditional poutine with vegetarian gravy, and for meat lovers, the smoked meat poutine with double cheese is a must.
The tender, flavorful smoked meat goes perfectly with the creamy gravy, giving you a taste of Montreal or Quebec right in Toronto.
The fries are fresh and super crunchy, with a hint of sweetness from the red potato fries, and the gravy is rich and delicious.
Another favorite is the pulled pork poutine, and there’s a patio table if you want a more laid-back place to eat.
2. Poutine Hub
If you're hanging out in Toronto and your stomach starts growling, you’ve got to check out Poutine Hub on Hangout Street.
This chill spot is all about poutine, with tons of toppings ranging from classic to super creative.
First-timers can’t get enough of the crispy fries and tasty gravy, especially the butter chicken poutine—it’s a total fan favorite.
Hot, fresh fries smothered in buttery chicken, chopped tomatoes, onions, and a bit of lettuce create a burst of flavor.
The staff at Poutine Hub are super friendly and quick. They’re always ready to give you suggestions and make sure you’re happy with your meal.
The owners have created a cozy vibe, with a clean and colorful space that feels welcoming.
They also have other fun options like meat lovers and veggie poutine. The rich gravy and fresh cheese curds are favorites among regulars.
And if you’re in the mood for something else, they also make delicious hot dogs and wraps right in front of you.
What makes Poutine Hub stand out is their commitment to quality and making sure customers are happy.
3. Big Smoke Burger
If you’re in Toronto and craving a delicious burger along with some crispy poutine, Big Smoke Burger is definitely a place you should check out.
They’re known for their unique twist on the classic burger, and their menu and service really set them apart.
First off, the food is really great. They use fresh, high-quality ingredients to make burgers that will leave you wanting more.
Some popular choices include the Smokey Cheddar Bacon Burger, the Buffalo Chicken Burger, and for those who prefer plant-based options, the Beyond the Meat Burger.
You have to try their poutine too. The dish features crispy fries covered in rich gravy and gooey cheese curds – it pairs perfectly with their burgers.
The onion rings are super crunchy, and there are plenty of other tasty sides to choose from.
The vibe at Big Smoke Burger is really chill and welcoming. The staff are friendly and make sure your meal is just right.
What makes this place even better is how well they pay attention to details. The restaurant is clean and comfortable, making it a great spot for families and friends.
Big Smoke Burger is also a go-to spot for late-night cravings. So if you find yourself hungry after a night out in downtown Toronto, this is the place to be.
4. Ozzy's Burgers Toronto
If you’re hanging out in Kensington Market and craving a tasty burger, you’ve got to check out Ozzy's Burgers. This cozy spot is known for its motto: "Never frozen. Always fresh."
The menu at Ozzy's is packed with mouthwatering options. You can try the Holy Cheesus, which is loaded with a mozzarella patty, guacamole, and jalapenos, or go for the popular Son of a Bun burger that has two chicken fillets and caramelized onions.
There’s even a Portobello mushroom burger for those who don’t eat meat! And don’t miss out on their hand-cut fries, they’re thick, crispy, and perfectly salted.
The vibe at Ozzy's is just as great as the food. It feels warm and vintage, with cool posters on the walls and a friendly staff that makes you feel right at home. It might be a small place, but it’s super charming and popular.
One of the standout burgers is the Ozzy Lamberger, which goes great with sweet potato fries and chipotle sauce.
The combo meals, which come with a drink, are a steal, and your food will be ready in about seven minutes. The burgers are juicy, well-seasoned, and come in big portions.
Customers love the friendly service and the great prices, starting at just $10.95. The Paradise City burger, which mixes lamb and beef, is a top pick for those wanting to treat themselves a bit.
And, the chicken tenders and fries come with lots of sauce choices, making them a favorite too.
5. C’est What?
You walk into a cozy underground spot where the smell of delicious comfort food mixes with the rich scent of craft beer. That’s C’est What? for you!
Known as Toronto's first craft beer bar, it has an impressive selection of local and unique beers that will make any beer fan really happy.
But it’s not just about the drinks. C’est What? serves up tasty pub food that goes perfectly with your favorite beer. Craving a juicy burger or some crispy fries? They’ve got it all.
And if you’re into fries, you can’t miss their poutine. A plate full of golden fries drenched in rich gravy and melty cheese curds – it’s the kind of dish that will impress you.
The atmosphere here is warm and inviting, making it a great place to chill out. And there’s even more! C’est What? is also a live music venue, often featuring performances like the Laneway Series Music. The live music adds a cool vibe, making your meal even more special.
If you’re into trivia, you’ll definitely want to check out their bi-weekly trivia nights. It’s a fun way to show off your knowledge and maybe even win some prizes.
They also have special events like spirit tastings with Laneway Distillers, often paired with tasty charcuterie boxes.
For those who like to eat outside, C’est What? has outdoor seating too. And if cocktails are more your style, their bar mixes up some fantastic drinks that you’ll love.
6. Fresco's Fish and Chips
Next up is Fresco's Fish and Chips, a cozy spot in Kensington Market that's become a favorite for its carefully chosen fish and hand-cut fries. If you're in the mood for some crispy deep-fried goodness, this is definitely the place to check out.
Fresco's is proud of using high-quality oil that's not only low in saturated fat but also has no trans fat at all.
Their special mix of canola and corn oils means you can enjoy fried food without the guilt. They’ve figured out how to make fried food a bit healthier!
Their menu is full of tasty choices. so there’s something for everyone. Try the Miss Vickie's batter for an extra crunch that’s just fantastic.
The batter is always light and crispy, never greasy, and goes perfectly with the fresh-cut, perfectly fried chips. And don’t skip the creamy house-made tartar sauce for dipping those fries – it’s a perfect combo!
They care about sustainability too, proudly showing off the Ocean Wise seal for their seafood. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, especially for the quality and amount of food you get.
You can also try other tasty options like Po Boy sandwiches, shrimp, crab cakes, onion rings, and the fan-favorite poutine.
7. Smoke's Poutinerie
Smoke's Poutinerie is a must-visit spot in Toronto, especially if you’re craving some amazing poutine.
As the biggest and original poutinerie in the world, they offer a one-of-a-kind Canadian food experience that you won't forget.
They've taken the classic dish of fries, cheese curds, and gravy and elevated it with over 30 different topping options!
It all starts with their potatoes. They use top-quality, locally grown potatoes that are hand-cut into fries. These fries are cooked in trans-fat-free canola oil until they’re perfectly crispy.
The cheese curds are always fresh and have that satisfying squeaky texture, made to meet Smoke's high standards.
And the gravy? It’s a special recipe with a unique flavor and a touch of rosemary that you won’t find anywhere else. They even offer a veggie gravy for those who prefer it.
One of the best things about Smoke's Poutinerie is that they’re open late, perfect for those late-night cravings.
The Adelaide Street location is known for its quick service, clean space, and friendly staff who really want to make your visit enjoyable.
You can enjoy popular dishes like the Avalanche, Classic Poutine, and Korean BBQ Poutine, or try something different like fried cheese curds, tater tots, and vegetarian options like the veggie classic and buffalo cauliflower poutine.
8. Avenue Open Kitchen
If you're searching for a cozy place in Toronto that serves delicious comfort food, Avenue Open Kitchen at 7 Camden Street is the perfect spot.
This diner has been a local favorite since 1959, and it’s popular with everyone from families to construction workers grabbing lunch.
Avenue Open Kitchen gives you that classic diner vibe. You can watch your food being made in the open kitchen, enjoy the retro decor, and choose between sitting at the counter or in a booth.
Their menu is filled with tasty Canadian comfort food. They offer all-day breakfast with delicious options like steak and eggs, French toast, and different kinds of omelets.
And don't miss out on the poutine, a Canadian favorite with crispy fries, savory gravy, and cheesy curds.
One of the best things about Avenue Open Kitchen is its friendly atmosphere and affordable prices.
Regulars love the fresh coffee and the perfectly cooked cheese omelet. The home fries are a favorite, and their Greek salad and chicken clubhouse are always hits.
Although it can get busy at lunchtime, the staff are quick and friendly, so you’ll be well taken care of.
9. BeaverTails Toronto Waterfront
Down by the water at Queen's Quay, BeaverTails Toronto Waterfront is hard to miss. Famous for its unique fried dough pastries shaped like a beaver's tail, this Canadian treat has been satisfying cravings since 1978.
But BeaverTails isn't just about the sweet stuff. They also serve tasty poutine, including vegetarian gravy options. All their beaver tail pastries are vegetarian, but some do have milk and peanuts in them.
What really sets this place apart is its location right by the lake. You can enjoy your treats while taking in some beautiful views.
The service here is excellent, with friendly staff who make sure you get your food quickly. Plus, the prices are pretty affordable, so you won’t have to worry about spending too much.
It’s open all year round, so you can enjoy your BeaverTails whenever you want. Getting in is easy too, as the place has ground-level access for everyone.
10. The Burger's Priest
If you find yourself in Toronto's Financial or Entertainment Districts and your stomach starts growling, you need to check out The Burger's Priest.
This fun burger place has a unique Bible theme and is famous for serving some of the most delicious burgers in the city. And don’t worry—they’ve got tasty options for vegans too!
The beef patties here are really something. They're seasoned perfectly and come with fresh veggies and toasted buns that add a nice crunch.
If you're looking for something a bit different, try the California Classic and Stern fries. The fries come in big portions and are topped with yummy sauces that will keep you coming back for more.
If you have any dietary restrictions, you’re in luck because they also offer gluten-free options, so everyone can join in on the burger fun. And if you’re craving a late-night snack, this place has you covered.
11. New York Fries Eaton Centre
If you love fries or poutine, you have to check out New York Fries at Eaton Centre. This Canadian restaurant chain began in 1983 in New York City and has grown to over 130 locations in Canada.
They're part of Recipe Restaurant Group, which is the biggest full-service restaurant company in Canada, so they really care about serving great food.
What makes New York Fries special? Their fries are made from Idaho potatoes and cooked in sunflower oil, making them super crispy and tasty.
If you’re into poutine, their classic version is amazing, with beef gravy and Wisconsin cheese curds melting over those fresh fries.
But that’s not all! If you like to try different things, they have loaded fries topped with options like beef chili, pulled pork, queso, and crumbled bacon.
Each bite is a new flavor experience! They also serve all-beef hot dogs that are grilled just right and topped with top-quality ingredients.
The staff really goes the extra mile to ensure you have a great experience and are good about helping with dietary needs, including gluten-free options.
12. Firefly Burger Toronto
If you're in Toronto and craving a burger that’s seriously good, you have to check out Firefly Burger! This place has an interesting backstory.
Their burgers are known for being really juicy and made with fresh ingredients that pack a lot of flavor. A highlight is their Firefly sauce, which adds a tasty kick.
And don’t forget about the sides! Their fries, especially the waffle fries, are crispy and well-seasoned. You can also grab mozzarella sticks or classic Canadian poutine.
Located conveniently in downtown Toronto, Firefly Burger is perfect for a quick meal or a late-night snack.
To Sum It All Up
So there you have it! From the tasty NomNomNom Poutine to the crispy treats at Ozzy's Burgers, Toronto has so many places that serve delicious poutine.
These restaurants were chosen because they each offer something unique, showing off the variety of Toronto's food scene. And for more cool ideas on things to do around town, check out ActiviFinder Toronto.