From fun festivals to incredible arts and culture scenes to beautiful tourist attractions, Toronto is one of the most iconic destinations in Canada. And while it may lack Montreal's history or numerous outdoor adventures like Vancouver, its fantastic museums, shopping opportunities, and wonderful food scene surely make up for it. One of the things that make Canada’s largest city worthy of exploring is its plenty of restaurant options, some of which have been there for more than 100 years. Looking for a fine eatery that’s deeply soaked in tradition? Grab some delicious meals from the oldest restaurants in Toronto, Canada.
10 The Senator
Initially a home constructed in the 1850s, The Senator is among the oldest restaurants in Toronto. It was opened as a food eatery in 1929 and was given the name 'The Senator' in 1948 after undergoing renovation and expansion. Eating from this gorgeous restaurant takes vacationers back to the 19th century, as they can still see traces dating back to that time. This restaurant was designed by the Toronto Refrigeration Company, and their trademark is still in their bar. This top-rated restaurant went through another renovation in 1984 and has evolved ever since to become an incredible dining landmark worth visiting.
- Year Built: 1929
- Opening hours: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm Tuesdays to Fridays, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm & 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm Saturdays
9 Wheatsheaf Tavern
Opened in 1849, Wheatsheaf Tavern is one of the oldest restaurants in Toronto. Vacationers will have a wonderful dining experience here, regardless of what they are after. It is a perfect spot to explore classic tavern fare, sports, live music, and whisky. The restaurant has been creatively restored but has maintained its magic glamour from the 19th century. Whether chasing a live show or trying to catch the specials, Wheatsheaf Tavern has something for everyone.
- Year Opened: 1849
- Opening hours: 11:00 am too late, every day
8 The Old Mill Toronto
The Old Mill Toronto was opened in 1914; Old Mill Toronto has been offering outstanding services ever since it was launched. The dining experience is fantastic, and there are options to choose from. In the city's West End, by the Humber River, eating in this luxury event venue, a tea garden, and a restaurant is definitely worth it. It has hosted numerous special events, including birthdays, honeymoons, anniversaries, and family occasions.
- Year Opened: 1914
7 Old Spaghetti Factory
No list of Toronto’s historic restaurants is complete without mentioning the Old Spaghetti Factory, originally opened in 1898 as a blacksmith shop. This is one of the most iconic landmarks and has been through numerous renovations, now featuring a streetcar, a century-old carousel, an antique elevator, and some of the most impressive artifacts. Nestled on The Esplanade, near the Front and Yonge Streets, The Old Spaghetti Factory Toronto guarantees a great dining experience. Head there and have a taste of their spaghetti and meatballs.
- Year Opened: 1971
- Opening hours: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
6 United Bakers Dairy Restaurant
Opened in 1912 as a bakery and coffee house by a young couple from Kielce, the United Bakers Dairy Restaurant is one of the oldest and most delightful restaurants in Toronto. The restaurant was originally situated at 156 Agnes Street and moved to Spadina Avenue in 1920 and later to its current location, Lawrence Avenue in the 1980s. Their menu is incredible and awaits to satisfy all kinds of food cravings that vacationers may have.
- Year Opened: 1912
- Opening hours: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
5 Barbarian’s Steakhouse
Barbarian’s Steakhouse was launched in 1959 by Harry Barbarian and has been a favorite spot for over 60 years. This steakhouse has one of the finest restaurants and had different customers, including politicians, celebrities, and some of the most iconic sports legends. Any travelers in love with great food and incredible wine selection would definitely enjoy dining in one of the oldest restaurants in Toronto. Boasting over 15,000 bottles, their wine cellar is one of the best in the city.
- Year Opened: 1959
- Opening hours: 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm Mondays to Wednesdays, 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm; 5:00 – 11:00 pm Thursdays & Fridays, 4:30 pm – 11:00 pm Saturdays & Sundays
4 Sicilian Ice Cream
Opened in 1959, Sicilian Ice Cream is Toronto's oldest ice cream shop. The Galipo Brothers started to make the Gelato, which they referred to as “Sicilian,” a name that was derived from their heritage and sacred homeland. This place is one of the most beloved and honored dining spots in the city because of its fascinating history of how it started in the first place. Their recipe was passed to them by their grandfather, who was a great gelato maker. Visit Sicilian Ice Cream and have a dining experience to remember.
- Year Opened: 1959
- Opening hours: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
3 Len Duckworth's Fish and Chips
Established in 1929, Len Duckworth's Fish and Chips has been a major fish spot for almost 100 years, making it one of the oldest restaurants in Toronto. Founded by Jack and Edith Duckworth, this restaurant has been one of the most favorite eateries in the east end. It is a family business that has passed from generation to generation. Everything is great, from pies to desserts to beverages to incredibly delicious seafood.
- Year Opened: 1929
- Opening hours: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm Mondays to Thursdays, 11:00 am – 9:00 pm Fridays, and 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
2 The Lakeview
From musicians to filmmakers to soldiers, The Lakeview has been a favorite spot for all kinds of guests since 1932. This means that the restaurant has a part in Toronto's rich heritage and guarantees a fascinating experience, whether one is planning to dine in or take their food away. Their menu is extensive and is waiting to satisfy every craving. One of the tastiest eats to try is their Freedom Toast, usually an egg-dipped baguette packed with Le Bacon Peameal (the Canadian bacon).
- Year Opened: 1932
- Opening hours: 24 hours
1 Fran's Restaurant
Dating back to 1940, Fran’s Restaurant is among the oldest restaurants in Toronto, Canada. It began as a modest 10-seat at Yonge and St. Chair. In 1941, Francis came up with the first bacon cheeseburger, which he called the Forest Hill Burger. The restaurant expanded as time went on, with more branches opened in different locations. Still family-owned and managed, Fran's Restaurant offer home-style cooking and has an amazing experience awaiting vacationers.
- Year Opened: 1940
- Hours of operation: 24 hours