*By: Deepi Harish*
Food halls in Toronto are having a moment and it’s easy to see why. They offer a wide variety of dining options all under one roof. Plus, they’ve become vibrant community hubs, showcasing local ingredients and serve as testing grounds for chefs and mixologists to experiment with specialty dishes and drinks. Here are some of our favourites:
5 Food Halls In Toronto You Need To Visit
1. Waterworks Food Hall
Housed in a beautifully renovated heritage industrial building on King West is Waterworks, an impressive 55,000-square-foot space that features over twenty food stalls. This European-inspired destination offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for socializing and culinary exploration.
Recommended vendors: Grape Witches (women-founded and women-run) organic wine shop and bar; Aburi Sushi known for their individually pressed hand rolls and Harry’s Charbroiled, where you can grab classic, juicy smashburgers and nostalgic shakes that will transport you back to a simpler time.
Unique to Waterworks: Newly opened Civil Works cocktail bar, located on the mezzanine level, exudes the charm of the glamorous 1920s. Civil Works offers a one-of-a-kind experience by pairing custom-crafted waters inspired by regions around the world with a curated selection of spirits. Their specialty waters are created by demineralizing Toronto tap water and then reintroducing mineral drops to replicate the unique flavour profiles of specific locations, elevating the tasting experience. Initially, I found this concept to be gimmicky, until I tasted the Japanese water paired with a shot of Grey Goose vodka, followed by Scottish water with the same spirit. I was genuinely surprised by how different each water complemented the vodka. And because this is the team behind Civil Liberties, expect to sip on expertly crafted cocktails and martinis—some of the best in the city. What I love about this bar, much like Civil Liberties, is that you can share your preferred flavour notes with your server and they’ll return with a creative cocktail tailored just for you.
2. Wellington Market Food Hall
Set within The Well—a mixed used complex that’s become its own mini neighbourhood—is Wellington Market. Totalling 70,000-square-feet, this market is home to 50 merchants, plus a flower shop, grocery store, over one-hundred board games ready to rent (by Snakes and Lattes) and event space for food workshops or corporate events.
Recommended vendors: Blue Claw Lobster Shack which sources sustainable lobster from the waters of Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, New Brunswick and PEI; Ryu’s Noodle Bar for its rich, comforting ramen dishes that taste even better on cold days and the first Japadog location in the city, known for their Japanese-inspired hot dog toppings and sauces.
Unique to Wellington Market: On Friday nights, this food hall hosts a night market DJ series. Think of it as a pre-event to hitting up neighbouring areas for more entertainment. The space is fully liquor-licensed, so you can sip while you explore.
3. Queen’s Cross Food Hall
Unlike the old school food courts in major malls, Queen’s Cross elevates the dining experience by offering quick bites to gourmet meals. Situated at the south end of CF Toronto Eaton Centre, this 19,000-square-foot venue features 16 globally-inspired food stalls, including two rotating pop-ups. This innovative concept is brought to you by Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality, so you know there’s a standard of quality and creativity in the food and ambience.
Recommended vendors: Cherry Street Bar-B-Que for their Texas-style smoked meats; Le Petit Cornichon, which is a bistro version of Maison Selby and the current pop-up, Lil Rebel, serving up some of the most delicious soup dumplings and dim sum around.
Unique to Queen’s Cross: The Crossbar (main bar) hosts a daily happy hour from 2-7pm, where you can enjoy $6 beers, $7 wine by the glass and $10 cocktails, along with happy hour bites.
4. TABLE Food Hall
In the heart of Toronto’s financial district, located on the fourth floor of CIBC Square is TABLE, a destination that offers gourmet food, artisanal coffee and a vibrant atmosphere, making it the ideal spot for both quick lunches and leisurely dining.
Recommended vendors: Aloette Go is your go-to for burgers, fried chicken and salads; Chaiyo by Pai serves up vibrant Thai street food by renowned chef Nuit Regular and Misoya Ramen offers customizable ramen bowls, as well as gyoza and crispy chicken karaage.
Unique to TABLE: This food hall boasts a variety of social and private spaces. Enjoy al fresco dining with city views at The Terrace, host meetings in The Library or find a peaceful corner in The Alcove for solo seating. There’s also The Social, an entertainment space overlooking the stage and several other areas that cater to every occasion.
5. Chefs Hall
Easily accessible from the PATH is Chefs Hall, an 18,000-square foot space featuring a beer hall, chef’s lounge, a coffee bar, outdoor patio and a bustling main hall. With 14 diverse vendors and four bars, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy daily drink specials alongside bar bites priced at $10 and under, from 2pm until closing.
Recommended vendors: Grandma Loves You for their stuffed submarines and hotdogs; Grateful Chicken for a juicy deep-fried buttermilk chicken sandwich and thick Detroit- style pizza from Oswald’s Pizza.
Unique to Chefs Hall: This food hall offers a vibrant calendar of events from weekly trivia to stand-up comedy to movie nights and DJ sets that can turn into dance parties.
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