Toast of the town: Toronto’s best brunch spots
One of the best things about the weekend is going out for brunch, and Toronto is a brunch lover’s dream. From soft, fluffy hotcakes oozing with maple syrup to eggs Benedict cooked to perfection, there’s a dish and a place for every set of taste buds.
Here are just a few of our top brunch spots in Toronto.
Eggs Benedict from Café Cancan in Toronto © Jessica Lam / Lonely Planet
Brunch with some French flare at Café Cancan
If you’re craving something très magnifique for brunch, look no further than the pretty-in-pink Café Cancan. This dreamy pastel French bistro offers brunch classics with a French twist, with dishes such as fried duck eggs and smoked trout crêpe. The gorgeous backyard patio is where you’ll want to sit during the warmer months.
A hearty brunch from Oretta © Jessica Lam / Lonely Planet
Traditional Italian fare at Oretta
Oretta is your go-to spot for authentic and traditional Italian eats. From pastas to pizzas, it’s not your typical brunch menu, but it sure as heck is delicious. Enjoy your hearty Italian brunch in a retro art-deco space, with vibrant colors, elegant tile patterns and soaring ceilings.
A mix of savory and sweet at Old School © Jessica Lam / Lonely Planet
Classic diner favorites at Old School
If casual is your thing, Old School is your place. You can find all your favorite diner staples here, from drool-worthy pancake stacks to savory eggs Benedict. You might also find some challenging scientific terms and mathematical equations on the chalkboard, but not to worry – we guarantee it’ll be the best kind of school you visit.
A colorful spread from Baddies © Jessica Lam / Lonely Planet
Healthier brunch staples at Baddies
Baddies has it all nailed down with aesthetics, from the stylishly minimalist interior to the colorfully plated dishes. You’ll find a number of healthy brunch options at this Australian-style café, such as millennial-favorite avocado toast or chia seed pudding. This west-end gem is a little farther out from the city core, but it’s worth the trek.
A cozy setup at Her Father's Cider Bar + Kitchen © Jessica Lam / Lonely Planet
Local and seasonal dishes at Her Father’s Cider Bar + Kitchen
While Her Father’s Cider Bar + Kitchen is known for its selection of 100+ ciders from around Ontario and the world, it also offer delicious brunch options with local and seasonal ingredients. The rustic-chic space features unique touches, like abstract painted walls inside and out, as well as stunning stained-glass windows. Along with fresh flowers and blankets for chilly days on the patio, Her Father’s has the charm of a contemporary farmhouse restaurant.
Planta is one of Toronto's hottest vegan brunch spots © Jessica Lam / Lonely Planet
Plant-based brunch at Planta
Planta serves up plant-based brunch dishes as picturesque as the incredibly chic interior, with jungle-printed wallpaper and stylish lighting fixtures. From sweet treats to savory bites, there’s something for everyone, whether you have a plant-based diet or not.
Pray Tell serves up some creativity for brunch © Jessica Lam / Lonely Planet
Creative dishes and cocktails at Pray Tell
Pray Tell is a cozy spot in Little Italy featuring Scandinavian elements and tons of greenery, adding to the airiness and relaxed vibe. It’s the perfect spot to catch up with a friend or spend an hour or two working in. Brunch options are light if you’re looking for something a little less heavy. You’ll also find a number of delicious and creative seasonal cocktails if coffee isn’t your thing.
Based on these mouth-watering locations, it seems Torontonians take brunch very seriously. If you do too, add Toronto to the top of your travel list.
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