Toronto is a vibrant city known for its diverse culinary scene, and when it comes to Korean cuisine, there is no shortage of options. With many restaurants offering everything from traditional dishes to modern fusion creations, choosing the best Korean restaurant in Toronto can be challenging. But fear not, as we have curated a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the city's culinary delights of Korean cuisine.

Modern Fusion and Creative Takes

In addition to the traditional Korean restaurants, Toronto is also home to establishments that push the boundaries of Korean cuisine, offering innovative fusion dishes and creative reinterpretations of traditional flavors.

1. Comma

Comma is one of the top contenders for the title of the best Korean restaurant in Toronto. Located on Queen Street West between Spadina and Bathurst, Comma is a modern Korean fusion restaurant that aims to provide an authentic Korean experience in the heart of downtown. Comma sets the stage for a memorable dining experience with its warm exposed brick walls and inviting ambiance.

Comma's menu showcases unique flavor combinations across drinks and food. From elevated familiar favorites like noodles, rice cakes, and kimchi to meaty mains and refreshing small plates, Comma offers a diverse range of options to cater to various taste preferences. One of the notable dishes is Gyejang, which is made by marinating fresh crabs in either soy or chili pepper marinade. Another must-try is the Spicy Garlic Fried Chicken, featuring tender pieces of fried chicken and potato wedges smothered in a sticky red sauce with a hint of sweetness.

To complement the culinary delights, Comma offers an impressive selection of cocktails. The Comma Martini, a unique twist on the classic dirty martini cocktail, incorporates gin, green chili gin, dry vermouth, and kimchi juice, topped with a few drops of chive oil. For those with a sweet tooth, the Melon Pandan Sour is a delightful choice, featuring the perfect balance of sweetness and sourness topped with elderflower tonic and garnished with a lime coin.

Comma, dedicated to delivering classic Korean food in modern ways, has undoubtedly earned its place among the best Korean restaurants in Toronto.



2. Myeongdong Gyoza Kalguksu

Located in Thornhill, Myeongdong Gyoza Kalguksu goes beyond the popular bibimbap to showcase a wider range of authentic Korean cuisine. Start your meal with their steamed king-size gyoza, a perfect balance of crispy and juicy. Then dive into their homemade kalguksu, a hot beef broth filled with veggies and wheat noodles, providing a comforting and satisfying dining experience. Myeongdong Gyoza Kalguksu is a hidden gem that will transport you to the streets of Korea.

Exploring Koreatown: A Hub of Korean Gastronomy

Koreatown in Toronto, particularly the stretch from Bathurst to Christie Pitts Park, is a haven for Korean food enthusiasts. This vibrant neighbourhood has numerous Korean restaurants and bars, each offering a unique dining experience.

You can also find Korean restaurants scattered across other neighbourhoods, like the Ossington strip and Yonge Street between Sheppard and Steeles. With such a wide array of options, you’ll have plenty to choose from when seeking the best Korean restaurant in Toronto.

3. Korean Village Restaurant

Head to Korean Village Restaurant on Bloor Street West to taste authentic Korean food. This family-owned establishment has been serving traditional Korean dishes since 1978. From grilled sliced sirloin beef served as bulgogi to house-made kimchi, cold buckwheat noodle bowls, and hot stone bibimbap, Korean Village Restaurant offers a wide range of options that will satisfy any craving. The lush greenery and warm atmosphere create the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience.

4. Buk Chang Dong Soon Tofu

With multiple locations in Toronto, Buk Chang Dong Soon Tofu has earned a reputation for its authentic and comforting Korean dishes. One of their standout dishes is the Hot Stone Pot Bibimbap, a sizzling ensemble of beef, fluffy rice, crunchy bean sprouts, and an egg perched on top. The hot stone bowl adds flavor to this classic Korean favorite. Pair your meal with a refreshing glass of soju or a cold beer to complete the experience.

5. Mapo Gamjatang

If you need a health boost, look no further than Mapo Gamjatang. This restaurant specializes in gamjatang, a hearty pork bone soup that is rich in nutrients and flavor. The recipes used at their Scarborough and North York locations have been passed down for three generations, originating from Mapo House in Seoul, Korea. The pork bones are boiled with dried radish greens and cabbage leaves, resulting in a nourishing and delicious dish. Mapo Gamjatang is a hidden gem that promises to satisfy both your taste buds and your well-being.

Hidden Gems: Korean Delicacies Beyond Koreatown

While Koreatown is undoubtedly a hotspot for Korean cuisine, there are other hidden gems scattered throughout Toronto that deserve recognition. These restaurants offer unique takes on traditional dishes and provide a fresh perspective on Korean gastronomy.

6. Oddseoul

Located on Ossington Avenue, Oddseoul is a small but mighty Korean restaurant with a loyal following in Toronto. This unassuming hole-in-the-wall eatery specializes in Korean snack plates with a creative flair. Step into Oddseoul and sit at one of the high-tops, immersing yourself in the retro, grungy decor that sets the stage for a unique dining experience.

Despite its small size, Oddseoul’s menu packs a punch. The mouth-watering smoked pork belly mandoo (Korean dumplings) steals the show with its tender filling and irresistible flavors. For a twist on a classic Canadian dish, try the squash poutine. Oddseoul’s fusion creations and attention to detail have cemented its reputation as one of the top Korean restaurants in Toronto.

7. Kimchi Korea House

Owned and operated by an aunt and nephew duo, Kimchi Korea House has been a staple in Toronto’s culinary scene for over a decade. This family-owned restaurant is known for its house-made kimchi, which is used in various dishes, including the famous kimchi bibimbap. The menu also features other mouth-watering options like spicy pork bone soup, which is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. Kimchi Korea House’s dedication to quality and authenticity has made it a favorite among Korean food enthusiasts in Toronto.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits

Toronto’s Korean restaurant scene offers many options for food enthusiasts to embark on a culinary adventure. Whether you’re seeking traditional flavors or innovative fusion creations, the best Korean restaurants in Toronto have something to satisfy every palate. From the vibrant streets of Koreatown to hidden gems scattered throughout the city, the rich and diverse culinary offerings of Korean cuisine await your discovery. So, grab your chopsticks and embark on a gastronomic journey through the best Korean restaurants in Toronto.