There are some dining establishments that you might visit for the sheer novelty of the experience. It helps when the food is good, but the vibe is key. Here is my list of Toronto’s most unique dining establishments/experiences.
Tried and True:
- Barchef: This is one of my absolutely favourite bars in Toronto. Is a $30 molecular gastronomical cocktail called “Spring” served in a flower pot and poured over with pine-infused liquid nitrogen a bit pretentious to some? Sure. But it is incredible still.
Potential drawback: Not everyone is willing to pay over $30 for a cocktail. - And/Ore: This is an absolutely beautiful restaurant with a variety of experiences for your choosing. I have eaten in the upstairs dining area where we were treated to a delicious “picnic” experience. However, the real draw are their prix fixe underground cave dining areas. Potential drawback: it’s a little harder to order à la carte (as in, harder to decide, not a good value).
- Medieval Times: You have to eat half a roasted chicken and garlic bread with your hands, but if you’re into horses, knights and a good ol’ fashioned joust, you’ll probably have a lot of fun here. Potential drawback: You really have to lean into the experience.
- Snakes & Lattes: Their first location was so popular that they’ve now opened up more (I prefer the College St location). They’re organized and helpful, and they have a solid cafe and (very) casual fare menu that will accompany any board game well.
Potential drawback: It’s still a board game cafe, and most likely filled with a lot of loud university students. It’s part of the experience. - SPiN Toronto: It’s a ping pong club located in Toronto’s King West Club District, and it’s co-owned by Susan Sarandon. It’s very fun and surprisingly good food.
Potential drawback: You are still coming to a King West bar, so it’s still intense. - 360 Restaurant: The dinner views from atop the CN Tower can’t be beaten, and all of the food is locally sourced and quite elegant. Potential drawback: I hate the price tag of a meal up here (seriously), but at least admission is included.
- O. Noir: If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to dine in complete darkness, you should come here. I can’t believe that this place is still open after all these years! Potential drawback: I wish the food was a bit more inventive.
Last updated: September 2025