Favorites Thai

Tucked behind a coffee shop on the Ossington strip, Favorites Thai is the project of industry veterans Jonathan Poon and Monte Wan. The space is narrow and airy, built around a binchotan charcoal grill that gives everything coming out of the kitchen a sharp, smoky edge. It’s a loud, high-energy room that fits right into the Trinity-Bellwoods scene, focusing on Thai-inspired plates that lean heavily on fresh herbs and serious heat rather than playing it safe with traditional recipes.

Bring a group and prepare to share, because the menu is built for it. Start with the sticky rice spring rolls or the beef tenderloin tartare before moving into the curries—the red duck curry is a reliable move. Since the dining room only holds about 40 people, you’ll want to book a table well in advance, though you might get lucky with a high-top if you’re walking in. It gets loud and busy, so don't expect a quiet conversation, but it’s the right spot if you want a proper meal before hitting the rest of the neighbourhood.