The Best Italian Restaurants in Toronto

No.1

Restaurant• Financial District

Don Alfonso 1890

“Indulge in their multi-course signature tasting menu, a true culinary journey that often concludes with a unique kitchen tour.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Perched on the 38th floor of the Westin Harbour Castle, Don Alfonso 1890 brings the storied culinary heritage of the Amalfi Coast to Toronto. This is the North American outpost of the legendary Michelin-starred institution founded by Alfonso and Ernesto Iaccarino, brought to the city by Nick and Nadia Di Donato of the Liberty Entertainment Group. The space itself is a masterclass in modern, high-gloss luxury, featuring white-washed walls, striking art pieces, and an open kitchen that allows you to watch the culinary team at work. The real draw, however, is the panoramic, 360-degree view of the Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario, which creates an undeniably cinematic backdrop for a special occasion. It is a polished, sophisticated environment that feels distinctly removed from the bustle of the city below. For a first-timer, the tasting menu is the definitive way to experience the kitchen’s technical precision and inventive approach to Italian ingredients. Expect dishes that balance tradition with modern flair, such as their signature vermicelli with mackerel or the meticulously plated bison. The wine list is massive and expertly curated, so don't hesitate to lean on the sommelier for pairings. Reservations are essential and should be booked well in advance, especially for prime sunset slots. Be prepared for a formal, high-end price point, and note that a credit card is required to secure your booking. It is an ideal spot for an anniversary or a celebratory dinner where the atmosphere is just as important as the plate.

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No.2

Restaurant• Yorkville

Osteria Giulia

“For a truly memorable bite, try the focaccia di recco, a thin and crispy loaf lined with soft stracchino cheese, based on a vintage Italian recipe.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Osteria Giulia is the refined, Michelin-starred sibling to Chef Rob Rossi’s beloved Giulietta, bringing a focused, sophisticated take on coastal Ligurian cuisine to Yorkville. The space is a masterclass in serene minimalism, featuring blond oak, travertine walls, and soft, warm lighting that creates an intimate, almost zen-like atmosphere. It feels entirely under control, from the suave, attentive service to the deliberate simplicity of the decor. While many Italian spots in the city lean into heavy, familiar tropes, Rossi’s kitchen prioritizes restraint and high-quality seafood, making it a standout for those who appreciate a dining experience that feels both luxurious and understated. For a first-timer, the focaccia di recco—a thin, crispy flatbread stuffed with molten stracchino cheese—is non-negotiable. Follow that with the hand-braided pasta, which is consistently some of the best in the city, and whatever fresh market seafood is being simply prepared with lemon, olive oil, and sea salt. The cocktail program is tight and technique-driven, and the wine list is a deep dive into Italian varietals. Reservations are notoriously difficult to secure; they open on OpenTable at midnight, fourteen days in advance, and disappear almost instantly. Expect a higher price point, but for a special occasion or a quiet, high-end date night, it is well worth the effort. Just be mindful that they have strict policies regarding cancellations and party sizes, so plan accordingly.

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No.3

Restaurant• Palmerston-Little Italy

DaNico

“Prepare for a truly unique culinary adventure with their eight-course tasting menu, where Italian coastal flavours meet unexpected Asian twists.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Housed in a meticulously restored historic bank building at the corner of College and Bathurst, DaNico is a masterclass in atmosphere. The space, curated by Liberty Entertainment Group, feels like a glamorous, theatrical escape from the surrounding Palmerston-Little Italy bustle. With soaring ceilings, plush velvet banquettes, and whimsical touches like a Salvador Dalí-inspired sculpture, it strikes a balance between serious fine dining and playful luxury. Chef Daniele Corona, formerly of Don Alfonso 1890, helms the kitchen, crafting a menu that pushes the boundaries of traditional Italian cuisine by weaving in subtle, precise Asian techniques. It is a sophisticated, high-energy environment that feels designed for special occasions where the setting is just as important as the plate. For a first-timer, the chef’s tasting menu is the best way to surrender to the kitchen’s vision and experience the full range of their fusion approach. If you prefer to curate your own meal, the three-course prix fixe allows you to explore the menu’s highlights. Don't skip the signature bread service, which sets a high bar early on. While the menu evolves seasonally, keep an eye out for their inventive pasta dishes and expertly prepared proteins like venison or cod. Expect a high price point, consistent with Michelin-starred fine dining in Toronto. Reservations are essential and should be booked well in advance. The service is polished and attentive, and the wine program is exceptional, so lean on the sommelier for pairings to elevate the experience.

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No.4

Restaurant• Geary Avenue / Dovercourt Village

Famiglia Baldassarre

“Arrive early for their coveted lunch service to experience their daily rotating menu, especially the La Carbonara di Alberigo or Cacio e Pepe, made with unparalleled fresh pasta.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Born from a modest basement operation in 2010, Famiglia Baldassarre has evolved into Toronto’s definitive destination for authentic, handmade pasta. Chef Leandro Baldassarre, who honed his craft in Italy, transformed this industrial space on Geary Avenue into a hybrid factory and lunch counter that feels less like a restaurant and more like an extension of his production line. The atmosphere is unpretentious and utilitarian, defined by the hum of machinery and the intoxicating aroma of fresh dough being rolled and cut just feet away. It is a place where the focus is entirely on the integrity of the product, reflecting a deep commitment to traditional techniques that have earned it a loyal following among locals who appreciate quality over polish. For a first-timer, the experience requires strategy: arrive well before the noon opening to secure a spot, as there are no reservations and seating is extremely limited. The menu is intentionally sparse, typically featuring only two daily pasta specials alongside high-quality prosciutto and mozzarella. Expect to pay a fair price for what is arguably the best fresh pasta in the city. The service is fast and no-nonsense, perfectly suited to the factory setting. Be prepared for a potential wait, but know that the simplicity of the food—straight from the boiler to your plate—is consistently worth the effort.

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No.5

Restaurant• Harbord Village

Piano Piano

“Indulge in their 'tasty & f*#king delicious' elevated traditional Italian fare, particularly their deeply satisfying pasta dishes that feel like a Nonna's touch.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Located in the heart of Harbord Village, Piano Piano occupies the space formerly held by the legendary Splendido. Chef Victor Barry transformed this storied room into a vibrant, whimsical Italian eatery that feels both sophisticated and refreshingly unpretentious. The interior, designed with a playful eye, sets the stage for a dining experience that is deeply soulful and intentionally fun. It is the kind of neighbourhood spot that manages to feel like a special occasion destination without the stuffiness, making it a reliable choice for everything from a lively date night to a celebratory family dinner. The atmosphere is consistently warm, welcoming, and buzzing with energy, reflecting the Italian philosophy of 'piano piano va lontano'—slowly, slowly we go further. For a first-timer, the Caesar salad is non-negotiable; it is an elevated, avant-garde take on the classic that pays homage to the site's history. Follow it up with one of their signature wood-fired pizzas, which feature a perfectly blistered, chewy sourdough crust, or dive into the rich, comforting pastas like the mushroom cavatelli. The menu is consistently 'tasty & f*#king delicious,' offering generous portions that satisfy without feeling overly precious. Prices sit in the mid-to-high range, reflecting the quality of ingredients. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend dinner service, as this remains a popular local staple. While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, booking ahead ensures you won't be left waiting.

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No.6

Restaurant• Yorkville

Ristorante Sotto Sotto

“Immerse yourself in the romantic, candlelit ambiance while savoring their classic pasta dishes, perfectly paired with a selection from their impressive wine cellar.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Founded in 1993 by Marisa Rocca, Ristorante Sotto Sotto has long been a fixture of the Yorkville dining scene. Originally a subterranean, cave-like spot—hence the name, which translates to 'underneath'—the restaurant moved to its current Avenue Road location after a fire destroyed its original home. It remains a quintessential Toronto celebrity magnet, with walls famously adorned in photos of Hollywood stars and a reputation as a regular haunt for high-profile patrons. The atmosphere is intentionally intimate, featuring cozy, curtained-off spaces and Murano glass chandeliers that create a refined, romantic vibe. It feels less like a corporate establishment and more like a deeply personal project, reflecting Rocca’s Roman roots and her commitment to authentic, rustic Italian hospitality. For a first-timer, the menu is a celebration of classic, no-nonsense Roman-style fare. You cannot go wrong with the pasta; the Bucatini all'Amatriciana is a masterclass in simplicity, while the Pennette Via Frattina is a crowd-pleaser for its balanced rose sauce. If you are looking for something indulgent, the truffle pasta and the veal with porcini sauce are standout mains. Whatever you do, save room for the strawberry tiramisu, which is widely considered the best in the city. Expect a high price point, as this is upscale dining, and reservations are essential, especially on weekends. Note that the restaurant is not fully wheelchair accessible, as the washrooms are located up a flight of stairs. It is a place to dress up, enjoy a bottle from their extensive wine list, and soak in the classic Yorkville energy.

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No.7

Restaurant• King West / Old Town Toronto

Ardo

“Dive into their Sicilian specialties like the Anatra pasta with duck ragout and Sicilian herbs, or the fiery Etna pizza with house-made Sicilian sausage.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Located in the heart of Old Town, Ardo is a deeply personal project from chef-owner Roberto Marotta and creative director Jacqueline Nicosia. Named after their son Leonardo’s childhood nickname for himself, the restaurant is a love letter to Marotta’s native Sicily. The space itself strikes a balance between intimate trattoria and modern city spot, featuring soft lighting, black-and-white family photos, and a retractable garage door that brings the energy of King Street East inside during warmer months. It is the kind of place where the hospitality feels genuine rather than rehearsed, making it a reliable choice for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to a celebratory evening. For a first-timer, the menu is best approached by sharing a few spuntini—the grilled octopus and the tuna carpaccio are consistently excellent—before diving into the house-made pastas. You cannot go wrong with the gnocchi or the ragu, both of which showcase the kitchen's commitment to authentic, high-quality ingredients. If you are in the mood for pizza, their sourdough crust is exceptionally light and airy. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends, as the intimate dining room fills up quickly. While the price point reflects the quality of the imported Sicilian ingredients, it remains approachable for the caliber of food. Don't leave without ordering the traditional Sicilian cannoli; it is made to order and is arguably the best way to finish your meal.

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No.8

Restaurant• King West

Gusto 101

“You absolutely must try their famous Mafalde ai Funghi, a decadent and addictive pasta dish with rich, earthy wild mushrooms and truffle cream sauce.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Gusto 101 is a King West institution that transformed a gritty 1950s auto body shop into one of the city’s most recognizable dining spaces. Founded by Janet Zuccarini in 2012, the restaurant leans into its industrial roots with exposed beams and cinder blocks, softened by a lively, bustling atmosphere and a retractable glass rooftop that makes it a prime spot for people-watching. It’s loud, energetic, and consistently packed, serving as a quintessential neighbourhood hub that feels like an extension of the local dining scene rather than a formal destination. The vibe is unapologetically social, making it better suited for a high-energy group dinner or a casual date than a quiet, intimate conversation. For a first-timer, the Mafalde ai Funghi is non-negotiable; the rich, earthy truffle cream sauce is the dish that put them on the map for a reason. Pair it with the Cavolo Nero salad, which balances bitter kale with zante currants and pine nuts for a perfect umami hit. Prices are mid-range, offering decent value for the area, especially if you take advantage of their happy hour deals. Reservations are highly recommended, as the place fills up fast, particularly on weekends and sunny days when the rooftop is in high demand. If you find yourself waiting for a table, grab a drink at the bar and soak in the noise.

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