While everyone in Toronto knows we have a burgeoning foodie scene, and have for quite some time, it’s taken a while for others to get on board. International recognition can be hard to come by. However, we do have a few celebrity chefs around town, who are in the midst of creating empires of their own.
This is the original restaurant that chef Mark McEwan opened more than 20 years ago. Since then, he has opened an additional three restaurants and a gourmet grocery store, as well as becoming the head judge on the Food Network’s show, Top Chef Canada.
One of several restaurants owned and run by Chef Susur Lee. Lee is internationally known for being the second Canadian to appear on Iron Chef America and tying for first place with Bobby Flay. His style is best described as fusion cuisine, and the dishes he creates at Lee are memorable and delicious.
Cafe Boulud is the Toronto venture of internationally acclaimed French chef Daniel Boulud, who has restaurants all over the world, His original restaurant, Daniel, earned two Michelin stars. Monsieur Boulud also hosts a TV show, now going into its third season, about where chefs go to unwind and eat after they finish working, called “After Hours with Daniel.” Café Boulud serves international cuisine that’s rooted in French tradition.
This is one of the Toronto outposts of Korean-American chef David Chang, of the Momofuku legend. The Momofuku restaurants have been a hit in NYC for quite a few years now, with one earning two Michelin stars, and the brand has expanded to Singapore, Australia and Toronto. The Momofuku brand in Toronto contains Daisho, Shoto, Noodle Bar, Milk Bar and Nikai, all of which serve a different niche.
Ruby Watcho is the restaurant of chef Lynn Crawford, who is best known for her appearances on the Food Network’s Restaurant Makeover show. She’s also competed on Iron Chef America and has been nominated for a Gemini award. Her restaurant in Riverdale has a set menu that changes daily, depending on what’s available seasonally.
