Forget the viral lineups and impossible reservations. We asked Toronto food creator Fred Bkayleh (@fredbk on TikTok) to share the neighbourhood gems he recommends to friends, returns to again and again, and keeps ordering from.
1. Chantecler
Tucked along Bloor West near Christie Pits, Chantecler is one of those spots that still feels like a secret. The French menu changes with the seasons, but the steak tartare is the dish I keep coming back for. Rich, perfectly seasoned and best enjoyed with a glass of wine and no plans for the rest of the night. 798 Bloor St W.
2. Pho Mi Viet Hoa
Everyone comes here for the pho, but the broken rice is the real move. Mine comes loaded with chicken, pork chop, steamed egg, fried egg, shredded pork and pickled vegetables, with a soup on the side. Cheap, filling, and worth the trip up to North York. 2887 Jane St., North York
3. Rhum Corner
Rhum Corner is a little slice of Haiti on Dundas West — dim, warm and always a good time. I order the crispy, flaky salt cod patties every visit, but the oxtail with beans is the dish to settle in with. It’s rich, slow-cooked comfort food that pairs perfectly with a rum cocktail. 926 Dundas St. W.
4. Maru Japanese Bistro
Maru is my pick when I want to be surprised. The menu changes constantly, so there’s no single dish to recommend, and that’s exactly the appeal. You go, see what they’re doing that week and trust the kitchen. It’s consistently one of the more interesting Japanese meals in the east end, and the rotating lineup keeps it fresh. 1402 Queen St. E.