Toronto’s multicultural dining scene is a paradise for food lovers looking to explore flavors from around the world. From sizzling Turkish kebabs to creamy Italian pasta and fiery Pakistani curries, the city’s top exotic restaurants offer unforgettable dining experiences. Here are some must-visit spots that showcase Toronto’s rich international flavor.
Keyfi Istanbul Turkish Cuisine
📍 1200 Hwy 7 Unit 1, Thornhill, ON L4J 8M6
A true taste of Turkey right in Thornhill, Keyfi Istanbul is famous for its massive Mix Kebab Platter—a feast for four that includes lamb chops cooked tableside with butter, juicy chicken wings, tender beef and chicken skewers, Adana kebab, and beef doner, all paired with fries, rice, pita, and grilled vegetables. Their Mix Pide, a Turkish-style pizza, features a golden crisp crust with soft, chewy layers inside—especially delicious with diced beef and tomato. The Mix Appetizers platter offers six flavorful dips like hummus, roasted eggplant, and spicy pepper paste, perfect with warm bread and thin beef slices. Don’t miss the refreshing Shepherd’s Salad and the sweet finale of Dolama Katmer (pistachio and cream pastry) or Trillice sponge cake with Turkish coffee or tea.
El Bocho Mexican Restaurant
📍 10133 Yonge St Unit A, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 1T5
El Bocho brings authentic Mexican flair to Richmond Hill with its colorful décor and hearty portions. The Nacho Grande—a mountain of soft tortilla chips topped with melted cheese—is a crowd favorite. While the Chicken Taco is fresh and filling, many diners rave about the Fish Taco for its flavorful twist. The show-stopping Alambre on Fire—beef cooked on a sizzling iron plate over a layer of cheese—arrives at your table flaming hot. The lively atmosphere and detailed presentation make it perfect for special nights out, though lines can get long during peak hours.
Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar
📍 155 York Blvd, Richmond Hill, ON L4B 3B4
This Italian hotspot is known for its handcrafted pasta and modern ambience. Start with Fried Calamari, lightly golden and best enjoyed with their lemony white dipping sauce. Their creamy Alfredo Pasta is rich and satisfying, while the Meat Sauce Rigatoni—made with Angus beef, sausage, and bacon—delivers a comforting balance of flavors. Seasonal specials like Braised Short Rib Fettuccine highlight their dedication to freshness, featuring tender beef slow-cooked to perfection. And for pizza lovers, the Margherita Pizza is simple yet stunning—crispy crust, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil, a must-order straight from the oven.
Karahi Boys
📍 741 Queen St W, Toronto
For a true Pakistani dining experience, Karahi Boys is a gem on Queen Street West. The space is warmly lit with exotic wall art, creating an inviting atmosphere. Their signature Behari Beef Karahi—a fragrant beef stew with green and red chilies—pairs beautifully with the enormous Family Naan, a buttery flatbread crisp on the outside and chewy inside. The Chicken Behari Boti, charcoal-grilled chicken thighs, are juicy and full of spice. Don’t skip the drinks—Mango Lassi is perfectly sweet and creamy, while Pakola, a local green vanilla soda, offers a fun surprise reminiscent of Korean Milkis.
Old Avenue Restaurant
📍 1923C Avenue Rd, North York, ON M5M 4A2
For a taste of Azerbaijan and Mediterranean fusion, Old Avenue Restaurant is a hidden gem in North York. The Ontario Grilled Rack of Lamb is a standout—succulent, fresh, and grilled just right with no gamey flavor. The Beef Stew in Clay Pot is hearty and comforting with bell peppers and onions, while the Shah Plov, a baked rice dish with lamb, chestnuts, and raisins, offers a unique sweet-savory combination wrapped in buttery pastry. Even the complimentary bread impresses with its salty aroma and special house dip—so good it could be a meal on its own.
From the smoky aroma of Turkish charcoal grills to the comforting spice of Pakistani karahi and the creamy indulgence of Italian pasta, Toronto’s global food scene is as diverse as its people. These exotic restaurants not only serve incredible dishes but also capture the spirit of cultures that make the city one of the world’s most exciting culinary destinations.
Chefco proudly supports many of Toronto’s top restaurants by providing high-quality kitchen equipment, cookware, and restaurant supplies. From professional grills and ovens to prep tables and refrigeration units, Chefco helps local chefs craft dishes that bring global flavors to Canadian tables.
