Toronto is formidable in its culture. While being so diverse has helped us to be one of the most sensitive cities in the world – not to mention one of the most cooperative and open-minded – there’s one aspect of this characteristic that is likely favoured: the food. Damn! Do we ever have some great food from different cultures. Just look at the Mexican/Latin restaurants we at Notable like to call “mi casa”…
Grand Electric
Helmed by a couple ex-Black Hoofers, Grand Electric is all about the tacos…and the brown liquor…and the energy, oh my! There’s little they don’t do right here, which is good because their focus is on doing little but doing it well. Steer clear of the ceviche – it’s good but nothing special – and focus your attention on the tacos. Get one of each protein if you dare, and order up a cocktail worthy of such Mexican delights.
Playa Cabana
This one went somewhat unnoticed up until recently. We don’t know if it was the allure of the socialite scene that started descending on Playa late 2011, but whatever the case now it’s near impossible to get a table on a Friday night. And it’s for good reason. This little Annex gem boasts some of the best tequilas you can snatch and sip – because a good tequila, like a good scotch, is not meant to be guzzled – and their nachos a la plancha with Oaxacan cheese are out of this world…as is pretty much anything else you order.
Frida Restaurant
Frida Kahlo had a look all her own – remember Salma Hayek donning that unibrow? – and this principle rings true for Frida Restaurant. Boasting one of the best spicy brunches in the city, Frida Restaurant runs the gamut between street and casual fine dining. The flavours intense, the atmosphere resplendent, and the service attentive. Sidle on up to a spot and try the mushroom empanadas, or go all out with the quail and mole poblano. Nothing disappoints; everything is remembered…just like the work of Frida herself.
La Carnita
Have you joined the La Carnita revolution yet? If not, here’s the word: Famous around town for their pop-up taco nights that mixed food and art in a, well, revolutionary way, La Carnita opened up shop earlier this summer at a permanent location in Little Italy. The energy’s frenetic, the food eclectic, and the scene decidedly cool for Toronto. A spot that will likely never tire, thanks to variations on the taco like In Cod We Trust, and perfectly executed apps, like the vibrant swordfish ceviche. PS. The art lives on here…
Arepa Cafe
Here’s where you’ll get some Venezuelan street food that’s fresh as can be and sincerely satisfying. And for those intolerant of gluten – while we don’t take kindly to intolerance of any sort at Notable – these corn flour sandwiches are free of the stuff. An arepa is a signature dish in Venezuela, and the options here are seemingly endless. The curvy queen is avocado and grilled chicken salad deliciousness, the pabellon vegie sweet and savoury with plaintain and black beans, and the adobo roasted pork perfection with caramelized onions. Don’t forget to order some tequenos to start!
Photo courtesy Frida Restaurant