15+ Best French Restaurants in Toronto to Satisfy Your Cravings

Julie Anne
· · · ·

If your idea of a good time involves buttery croissants, wine that doesn’t come in a box, and sauces you can’t pronounce but love anyway—you’re in the right city. Toronto has more than poutine and peameal bacon going for it. Some of the best French restaurants in Toronto serve food that might just make you say ooh la la without irony. From steak frites to soufflés, this list will help you find a spot where your inner food snob (we all have one) feels at home—without needing a passport.

A Guide to Toronto’s Top French Restaurants

Auberge du Pommier

Photo via @aubergedupommier / Instagram

Okay, this spot is a bit of a trip up to North York, but it’s worth it for a special occasion. It’s set in these old 1860s cottages, so it feels like you’ve left the city behind. Think cozy fireplaces in the winter and a seriously nice garden patio when it’s warm. The food is French but with a Canadian twist.

Le Baratin

If you’re looking for a low-key spot without any fuss, head to Le Baratin in Brockton Village. It’s a neighborhood staple where the team makes everything from scratch, right down to the sauces. It’s the kind of place you go for good food and a relaxed evening with an all-French wine list.

Alo

Photo via @alorestaurant / Instagram

For those nights when you want to go all out, there’s Alo. It’s a fine dining spot on the top floor of a downtown building with a tasting menu that’s always changing. If you can’t snag a reservation, try their barroom—it’s more casual and you can order individual plates.

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Côte de Bœuf

Photo via @cotedeboeufossington / Instagram

This place on the Ossington strip is part old-school butcher shop, part French bistro. You know the meat is going to be good here. Grab a seat at the wine bar for some terrines and foie gras or book the butcher’s table if you’re with a group. It fits right in with the area’s energy.

Le Sélect Bistro

Photo via @leselectbistro / Instagram

If you’re looking for a classic French bistro that never misses, Le Sélect is it. It’s been a downtown staple for a reason. The atmosphere makes you forget you’re just off Wellington Street. Their wine cellar is massive, so it’s a good place to go with someone who knows their stuff.

Dreyfus

Photo via @dreyfustoronto / Instagram

Tucked away in Harbord Village, Dreyfus feels like you’re at a friend’s dinner party. The space is tight, the menu focuses on small plates with local ingredients, and the wine list is all about natural wines. It’s a great spot for sharing a few things.

Maison T

Photo via @maisontbistro / Instagram

Over on Shaw Street, Maison T does French bistro food with a subtle Japanese influence, thanks to the chef. The dishes feel familiar but have a little something extra. It’s casual enough for a weeknight but still feels special.

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Lucie

Photo via @restaurantlucie, @yannick_bigourdan, and @arnaud_bloquel / Instagram

This is a newer spot downtown where the cooking is very precise and the ingredients are locally sourced. The plating is always on point. You can choose between the more formal dining room or a relaxed seat at the bar.

Scaramouche Restaurant

Photo via @scaramoucherestaurant / Instagram

The view alone is a reason to visit Scaramouche. It overlooks the whole city skyline from its midtown location. The food is a mix of classic and modern French, and there’s also a more casual bistro section if you’re not looking for a full fine-dining experience.

Le Swan

Photo via @leswanfrenchdiner / Instagram

Picture a classic Queen West diner, but make it French. That’s Le Swan. You can get beef bourguignon, but you can also get a solid meatloaf. It’s the kind of place you go when you want good, hearty food without any of the stuffiness.

La Banane

Photo via @labananeresto / Instagram

Another Ossington gem, La Banane is the move when you’re craving seafood with your French food. The raw bar is a highlight, and the main dishes are always interesting. It feels stylish without being rigid.

Maison Selby

Photo via @maisonselby / Instagram

Just a short walk from Sherbourne station, this place operates all day. You can stop in for croissants in the morning, a busy brunch on the weekend, or steak frites for dinner. They also have a moody speakeasy bar downstairs called Sous Sol for late-night drinks.

  • Price:  $$$
  • Reservation: Click here.
  • Website: www.maisonselby.com 
  • Location: 592 Sherbourne St, Toronto
  • Phone: 1 647-943-1676

Chantecler

Photo via @chanteclerto / Instagram

This Bloor West spot has a ton of character with its vintage decor. It’s just a dependable place for French-inspired comfort food, good for brunch with friends or a quiet dinner. It feels thoughtful but not overdone.

Le Paradis

Photo via @paradisbistro / Instagram

A true Yorkville original that’s been around since the 80s. Le Paradis is proof that you don’t need a flashy menu to be successful. They do straightforward French classics, and they do them well. It’s an affordable, no-nonsense spot that locals swear by.

  • Price:  $$
  • Reservation: Click here.
  • Website: www.leparadis.com 
  • Location: 166 Bedford Rd, Toronto
  • Phone: 1 416-921-6424

Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie

Photo via @clunydistillery / Instagram

If you find yourself in the Distillery District, Cluny is a great choice, especially if you’re with a big group. The space is bright and open, and the menu has everything from fresh bread to rich mains and classic desserts. It works well for both brunch and dinner.

  • Price:  $$$
  • Website: https://clunybistro.com 
  • Location: The Distillery Historic District, 35 Tank House Lane, Toronto
  • Phone: 1 416-203-2632

La Plume

Photo via @laplumebrasserie / Instagram

Located at The Well, La Plume brings southern French cooking to downtown. The rotisserie meats and seafood are the main attractions here. When you’re done with dinner, you can check out their hidden speakeasy bar.

What’s your go-to spot for steak frites in the 6ix? Drop your favorites in the comments below!

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Julie Anne Loquinario

Hey, it’s Julie! Powered by coffee and cuddles from my five feline overlords, I’m always hunting down the best cafés and restos in Toronto and the GTA. When I’m not indulging in my latest food obsession, you’ll find me binge-watching shows or dreaming up my next adventure.

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