Even if you have the best rice cooker and love homemade food, sometimes you just want to indulge. Craving a big bowl of pho or Thai dishes? Or have your taste buds longed for the fresh, vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine?
The problem is, with so many options for Vietnamese restaurants in Toronto, how do you choose? Look no further; we’ve got the inside scoop on the absolute best spot in the city to satisfy your craving for Vietnamese food.
There are hidden gems in the heart of Toronto that will transport you to the streets of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City with one bite of their authentic cooking.
Keep reading to discover the breathtaking Canadian restaurants in Toronto. Your search for culinary nirvana ends here.
Best Vietnamese Restaurant Toronto
The restaurants on this list have top dishes you won’t find in other Vietnamese restaurants.
Pho Madame Saigon
Pho Madame Saigon is hands down the best spot for authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the city. This cozy family-run joint is all about the food – and the pho is phenomenal.
The broth is rich and fragrant, made from beef bones that have been simmering for hours. Your choice of meat includes slices of tender beef, meatballs, or chicken. Add rice noodles, fresh herbs, lime, and chili sauce to taste, and you’ve got a bowl of perfection.
Beyond the authentic Vietnamese pho, their banh mi are excellent. Grilled pork, pate, cilantro, pickled veggies, and chili mayo on a crispy baguette – what’s not to love? You really can’t go wrong with any of their classic Vietnamese sandwiches.
For something fresh, the goi cuon or summer-spring rolls are refreshing. Shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice noodles wrapped in a chewy rice paper wrapper and served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce. A lighter option that’s still full of flavor.
Whether craving a steaming bowl of pho, a crispy banh mi, or fresh spring rolls, Madame Saigon delivers an authentic taste of Vietnam in the city’s heart. An absolute must-try for any foodie visiting Toronto.
Pho Ngoc Yen Restaurant
Need some traditional Vietnamese dishes in Toronto? Pho Ngoc Yen is worth checking out. This unassuming spot in East Chinatown is a hidden gem.
As soon as you walk in, the aromatic smells of fresh herbs, chili, and broth will water your mouth. The menu includes classic dishes like:
- Pho: Rice noodle soup with your choice of beef, chicken, or vegetable. They slow-cook the beef pho to perfection so it melts in your mouth.
- Spring rolls: Crispy rolls filled with minced pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and veggies. Dip them in the tangy nuoc cham sauce for extra flavor.
- Banh mi: Fluffy baguettes stuffed with grilled meat, cilantro, cucumber, pickled veggies, and pâté. These sandwiches are remarkably delicious and cheap.
- Bubble tea: Refreshing milk tea or fruit smoothies with chewy tapioca balls. A perfect complement to your meal.
The casual, no-frills space, friendly staff, and wallet-friendly prices add to the charm. This little restaurant brings big, bold, and unforgettable flavors.
Pho Tien Thanh
This Pho restaurant serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine made from the freshest ingredients. It’s packed with many traditional Vietnamese spices and sauces directly from Vietnam to give dishes an authentic flavor you won’t find anywhere else.
Pho Tien Thanh’s most famous rice noodle soup dish is made with broth that has been simmering for over 12 hours to develop a rich, complex flavor. You may choose from various types of meat to add, like chicken, beef, or pork.
Their spring rolls are freshly rolled in rice paper wrappers and served with a homemade peanut sauce for dipping.
And the banh mi, crusty Vietnamese sandwiches, are garnished with meat like grilled pork, paté, meatballs, cilantro, pickled veggies, and chili peppers.
The cozy, casual space, decorated with bamboo and lanterns, provides a perfect backdrop for a delicious meal.
Overall, Pho Tien Thanh should be at the top of your list when you’re craving a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Banh Mi Boys
Banh Mi Boys is known for serving authentic Vietnamese street food in a casual, laid-back space. Their signature banh mi sandwiches are made with crisp baguettes stuffed with cured meats, pickled veggies, and fresh herbs.
You have various banh mi options, like the Saigon sub with grilled pork, pâté, pickled carrots and cucumbers, cilantro, chili mayo, and Maggi seasoning. The Hanoi sub features ham, head cheese, pickled daikon, and carrots. The Sriracha Chicken sub with chili garlic mayo is a popular choice for a spicy kick.
Beyond banh mi, their menu showcases traditional Vietnamese fare like spring rolls, pho noodle soups, vermicelli bowls with grilled meat or tofu over rice noodles, fresh herbs, and nuoc cham sauce.
Need something different? Vietnamese coffee made from robusta beans, avocado smoothies, and beers like 333 and Saigon are also available.
With its laid-back vibe, Banh Mi Boys is an excellent spot for a casual date night, family dinner, or takeout. Their affordable, made-to-order food will transport you to the streets of Vietnam without leaving Toronto.
For an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine in an unpretentious setting, Banh Mi Boys hits the sweet spot. Their banh mi sandwiches, pho, and other street eats are as flavorful as any in Vietnam at a fraction of the airfare.
Pho Linh
Pho Linh is known for serving up traditional Vietnamese fare made from the freshest ingredients. The menu features many popular dishes like spring rolls, vermicelli noodles, and stir-fries with your choice of meat, tofu, and veggies. However, their specialty is undoubtedly pho.
This aromatic Vietnamese noodle soup is made in a rich bone broth and comes with your choice of beef, chicken, or vegetable. The broth is simmered for hours to develop maximum flavor before being topped with thin rice noodles, bean sprouts, fresh herbs, lime, and your protein of choice. The beef pho, in particular, is a standout with thinly sliced steak, brisket, and beef meatballs.
In addition, Pho Linh’s cozy space, attentive service, and BYOB policy also add to its appeal. While they don’t have a liquor license, you can bring your beer or wine to pair with your meal.
There can be a bit of a wait on weekends, so go early or call ahead. But one spoonful of that fragrant broth will remind you why it’s worth it.
Overall, Pho Linh serves up fresh, homemade Vietnamese specialties in a casual setting. It’s undoubtedly one of the best restaurants that represents Toronto Dining.
PHO OK
PHO OK delivers best-in-class authentic Vietnamese food in the heart of Toronto. Their extensive menu features classic dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi sandwiches. Everything is made fresh in-house from family recipes, so you get the real deal.
What should you look forward to?
Their signature beef pho is a must-try as they flavor the broth richly with slow-simmering beef bones and aromatics. You can customize your bowl by adding lime, bean sprouts, basil, and chili sauce. The portions are generous, so come hungry!
For a lighter option, the fresh spring rolls are a refreshing choice. The dish involves wrapping shrimp, herbs, and noodles in rice paper and served with a zesty peanut sauce for dipping. Wash it with Vietnamese coffee with robusta beans and sweetened condensed milk—the robust and nutty coffee pairs perfectly with the coconut-infused flavors of the cuisine.
PHO OK aims to share the warmth and hospitality of Vietnamese culture along with the vibrant flavors of the food. The family-owned restaurant has been a local favorite for a while, thanks to its consistent, high-quality dishes and friendly service. For an authentic taste of Vietnam without the long flight, PHO OK is your place.
Golden Turtle
Nestled in Ossington Ave, you might miss it if you didn’t know it was there. But his family-owned eatery has served authentic Vietnamese fare that delights the senses.
As soon as you step inside, the smell of pho broth, garlic, and chili peppers welcomes you. The decor is simple, but the friendly staff and tantalizing aromas make you feel at home.
Furthermore, the menu has a variety of popular Vietnamese dishes like crispy spring rolls, vermicelli noodles, and stir-fries. But the show’s stars are the fragrant pho soups and fresh summer rolls.
The beef pho is a hearty dish involving a mix of rice noodles, bean sprouts, and beef cuts like brisket, flank, or tendon. The broth is rich, complex, and soothing.
A meal at the Golden Turtle is an opportunity to experience the vibrant culinary culture of Vietnam. From the first bite of summer roll to the last spoonful of pho, you’ll feel the premium taste you crave.
FAQs
What Kind of Vietnamese Food Can I Expect in Toronto?
Toronto’s Vietnamese cuisine features fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors from all regions of Vietnam. You can find everything from pho and banh mi to com dia and goi cuon.
- Pho is a hearty rice noodle soup, usually made with beef or chicken broth. Restaurants top it with meat, herbs, lime, and chili peppers.
- Banh mi means crusty baguettes filled with meat, pickled veggies, cilantro, and chili mayonnaise.
- Com dia refers to rice bowls topped with meat, fried egg, and veggies.
- Goi cuon are fresh spring rolls wrapped in rice paper and served with a tangy peanut dipping sauce.
Are there Vegetarian or Vegan Options?
Many Vietnamese dishes are naturally vegetarian or vegan. Some recommendations:
- Bun cha gio chay: Rice vermicelli with fried spring rolls, veggies, and vegan nuoc cham sauce.
- Com chay: A rice bowl topped with stir-fried tofu and vegetables.
- Banh xeo chay: A crispy Vietnamese crepe filled with bean sprouts, veggies, and tofu.
What is the Atmosphere Like?
Vietnamese restaurants in Toronto range from casual, affordable spots to upscale fine dining. You’ll typically find simple but stylish decor with Vietnamese art and lanterns.
Moreover, staff are usually amiable and helpful in recommending dishes to newcomers. Most places offer patio or rooftop seating in the summer for an al fresco dining experience. An ideal spot for a date night, family dinner, or catching up with friends!
Conclusion
Toronto boasts stellar dining spots for different delicacies like Sushi or Vietnamese dishes. But finding the ones worth your time is a hassle. The restaurants on this list are the crème de la crème of Vietnamese restaurants.
With amazing pho, spring rolls, and banh mi sandwiches, they will satisfy your craving for delicious Vietnamese fare.
The casual vibe, friendly service, and out-of-this-world flavors will surely give you the complete Vietnam feeling. At prices that won’t break the bank, you really can’t go wrong.
Head over to experience Vietnam’s vibrant culture and flavors right in the heart of Toronto. What are you waiting for?
