No list of ‘city’s best’ can ever really be called definitive. Everyone’s palates are different, everyone’s tastes unique. So for our rundown of five of what we consider the city’s best spots to nosh on nachos, we’ve instead tried to seek out five different spots for five different takes that appeal to five different types of people. No, this is not a small-spot, hipster-loving, should-I-touch-the-banquettes dominated list…
For the Connoisseur: Kitch
With 10 types of nachos at the bat, Kitch is the closest thing to a nacho bar we have in the city. It’s a bit out of the way, sure, but boasts an amazing atmosphere for dinner and late night eats. Try the crab and artichoke nachos, or the Caribbean for tastes out of the ordinary. Their pulled pork offering is commendable, and for those with an eye on gourmet culture, order up the Hollywood.
For the Booze Hound: Prohibition Gastrohouse
We love Prohibition Gastrohouse for many a reason: 1) They have two hooch ‘hours’ from 4-7pm and 10pm to 12am daily; 2) Sitting along the east wall banquettes offers diners a light switch to let servers know you’re looking for attention; and 3) their nachos are made for singles to groups. Served on a single layer – which means the cheese and toppings to chip ratio is optimal – you can order up the nachos at Prohibition in three sizes, the grandest of which is the three-foot share platter. Housemade guac, salsa verde, and just the right amount of sour cream completes the experience.
For the Discerning Hipster: Habits Gastropub
Ah, bad habits are hard to break, and good ones even harder to start. Luckily, Habits Gastropub is in the habit of offering up a unique take on the classic nacho dish. Absolutely covered in toppings like sweet and spicy braised beef, a house-made arbol salsa, cheddar with an amped up smoked flavour, and crisp iceberg lettuce to cool off your palate, Habits’ nachos are divine. They’re difficult to share, however, because people’s selfishness tends to come out when a plate is ordered…
For the Pish Posh: The Drake Hotel
Lovers of nachos and lovers of lobster, this modern twist is all yours. The Drake is obviously a favourite hotspot – it’s one of those places you can’t help but be a bit enamoured with – and for the nacho lover they have their Lobster Nachos. Delicious chunks of Nova Scotia lobster, pickled jalapenos and a mornay sauce equals a totally wicked take that’s perfect for the gourmand.
For the Chain Lover: Jack Astor’s (but only the one on Front at Church)
Yeah, we’re a bit shocked with our choice here too, but bear with us while we shed some light. Jack Astor’s was a favourite in college, but we’ve mostly outgrown this chain, right? Wrong. The newest one in the city, at Front and Church streets, boasts seating for about 300, a massive screen behind the bar, visible from pretty much the whole joint (with dozens of other flats scattered around), a more industrial feel in keeping with Toronto aesthetic, and some pretty damned good nachos. Their trick is using the slightest bit of that ooey, gooey, I’ll-hate-myself-tomorrow nacho cheese we only grab once in a blue moon at the cinema. That paired with simple shredded marble, diced peppers and tomatoes – not to mention a mass-produced guacamole that tastes surprisingly small batch – equals a great share plate that’s nacho average Jack Astor’s. (Sorry, we had to use the pun at least once.)