Zao Bar and Grill

What is Zao Bar and Grill? Tucked along Dundas Street West right where Kensington Market meets Chinatown, Zao Bar and Grill is an unpretentious, late-night hub dedicated to charcoal-grilled skewers and fiery regional Chinese cooking. The room hums with casual canteen energy, pairing a busy drink bar with snug, closely packed dining tables tailor-made for communal feasting. It skips modern fuss in favour of late hours, generous portions, and cold beers suited for cooling down spicy wok-fired plates.

Zao Bar and Grill Menu & What to Order The grill station anchors the menu with cumin-crusted Grilled Lamb Skewers and sizzling Grilled Lamb Chops that balance rich fat with sharp spice. Adventurous palates shouldn't miss the bubbling Spicy Blood and Offal Hot Pot or the tender Bullfrog with Green Pepper and Chili Pepper, both of which deliver serious tongue-numbing heat. For seafood and lighter bites, order the wok-tossed Spicy Fried Clams or the Braised Shrimp With Garlic Sauce, backed by a side of Braised Dry Tofu With Hot Pepper.

Know Before You Go Tables run entirely on walk-ins, meaning late-night crowds and weekend groups can expect short waits during peak supper and post-midnight hours. The kitchen runs every day from 4:00 p.m. until 1:30 a.m., making it one of the area's most reliable late-night options. Transit is your best bet; take the 505 Dundas streetcar straight to Spadina Avenue, as nearby street parking is consistently scarce.