Sal's Pasta & Chops

Tucked between the CHIN Radio building and The Royal Theatre, Sal's Pasta & Chops leans hard into the history of College Street. Owners Michael Sangregorio and Fabio Bondi built this spot as a nod to their fathers, both named Sal, who put down roots in Little Italy long before the neighbourhood became what it is today. The room feels like it’s been there for decades, thanks to olive-green banquettes, pressed-metal ceilings, and a wall of family photos that keeps the vibe grounded. It manages to pull off that specific Toronto balance of feeling like a low-key Sunday dinner spot while still holding its own on a loud Friday night.

Don’t overthink the menu; it’s built on comfort and nostalgia rather than reinvention. You’re here for the handmade pasta and the chops—specifically the lamb, pork, and veal. If you want the full experience, order the tagliatelle alla parm wheel, which gets tossed in a flaming cheese rind right at your table. They keep a solid rotation of Italian and French wines on tap, which makes pairing easy. Since this is a popular stretch of College, book a table on OpenTable before you head over, especially if you’re planning on a weekend dinner.