Michelin Guide Redefines Toronto Culinary Scene
Michelin has recently bestowed its prestigious stars upon four new restaurants in its Toronto guide, although a surprising twist lies in the fact that three of them are not located within the city limits at all.
The renowned tiremaker has extended its culinary footprint to encompass “Toronto and Region,” a move made two years after its initial entry into the city back in 2022.
Let’s explore the latest additions to this exclusive list of Michelin-starred restaurants:
- The Pine in Creemore, Ont., has been praised for offering a “distinct dining experience influenced by the chef’s background working in China.” This unique perspective undoubtedly sets it apart from the crowd.
- Hexagon in Oakville, Ont., has also earned a Michelin star, with inspectors commending its “refined, original, and substantial” dishes that tantalize the taste buds.
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Restaurant Pearl Morissette in the Niagara Region received not only a Michelin star but also a green star, honoring its commitment to sustainability through practices like sourcing ingredients directly from local farmers and maintaining a two-acre regenerative garden.
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DaNico, a gem within city limits, has also joined the ranks of Michelin-starred establishments. Nestled in a former bank building, this restaurant impresses with its Italian cuisine infused with global influences.
In a recent email exchange, the anonymous chief inspector of the Michelin Guide North America emphasized that the decision to widen the search beyond the Toronto cityscape did not compromise the standard of excellence they were seeking.
As the culinary landscape evolves, it is only natural for Michelin to expand its reach and explore new territories. This extension now encompasses areas as far-reaching as Collingwood, Hamilton, Cambridge, and Niagara Falls, showcasing a diverse culinary tapestry that extends well beyond city limits.
Currently, Toronto and its surrounding region boast a total of 15 restaurants with one Michelin star, with the esteemed Sushi Masaki Saito proudly holding two stars. However, not all stories have a happy ending, as Alobar Yorkville and Yukashi bid farewell to their stars, and Nordic gem Frilu closed its doors in July.
On a brighter note, four more eateries have been honored with the Bib Gourmand designation, recognizing their commitment to offering good food at a moderate price. Berkeley North in Hamilton, Guru Lukshmi in Mississauga, and Toronto’s Rasa and Conejo Negro have all garnered this prestigious recognition.
The culinary scene in Toronto and its encompassing region continues to flourish, with Michelin serving as a beacon of excellence and a guide to culinary exploration. Let these new stars and accolades inspire you to embark on your next gastronomic adventure, discovering the hidden gems that await beyond the city limits.
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