Antler Kitchen & Bar

Dundas West is crowded with spots, but Antler Kitchen & Bar holds its own by leaning hard into the forest-to-table concept. Chefs Michael Hunter and Jody Shapiro built this place to showcase contemporary Canadian cooking, focusing on wild game and foraged ingredients. The room is tight and rustic, with enough exposed brick and mounted antlers to make you feel like you’ve traded the streetcar for a cabin in the woods, even if you’re just a few blocks from the heart of Little Portugal.

Start with the charcuterie board if you want to see how they handle game, or go for the venison rack if you’re looking for a main. The menu shifts with the seasons, so don’t get too attached to one specific dish. Since the dining room is narrow and fills up fast, book a table ahead of time, especially if you’re planning to tackle the family-style menu with a group. They’re closed on Mondays, so plan your week accordingly.