There’s nothing better to beat the cold outside than a warm and delicious plate of fresh pasta.
Whether you are looking to try some classic dishes, a warm vibe for a winter night out, or just grab a quick bite, here are eight restaurants that will hit the spot.
Famiglia Baldassarre
Address: 122 Geary Ave.
Want to feel like you’ve stepped in Italy without leaving Toronto? Famiglia Baldassarre offers just that. This spot started as a handmade fresh pasta supplier to other restaurants in the city back in 2010. Now, the factory opens its doors to the public a few days a week as a retail pasta shop, and lunch spot.
Famiglia Baldassarre is open from Tuesday to Friday between 12 and 5 p.m. for retail, and Wednesday to Friday from 12 to 2 p.m. for lunch. The time might be limited, but the flavour is not, with tradition and dedication in every bite.
Enoteca Sociale
Address: 1288 Dundas St. W.
This traditional Roman spot is so good that it holds a spot at the Michelin Guide. Known for its amazing bites and warm service, this spot hopes to unite friends and family over simple and delicious food. From the classic cacio e pepe to octopus rigatoni to lamb paccheri, there are plenty of different options on the Enoteca Sociale menu for pasta lovers.
Sugo
Address: 1281 Bloor St. W.
This might be the ultimate spot for some comfort food during the cold months. Serving delicious Italian American casual bites, Sugo has a bit of everything, from salads and sandwiches to pasta and parmigiana. Try some classic pomodoro spaghetti or the yummy pesto cream with sugo.
PIANO PIANO
Address: Multiple locations
One of the most fun and warm places in the city, PIANO PIANO is known for its traditional Italian food and sophisticated and welcoming vibe. From crispy and thick pizza bites to generous serves of polenta, this restaurant promises soulful flavours that will make you leave the table satisfied.
Of course, this place also serves some seriously delicious plates of pasta, from rigatoni carbonara to canestri alla vodka to lobster casarecce.
La Palma
Address: 849 Dundas St. W.
Chefs Craig Harding and Julian D’Ippolito have been lighting up Dundas West for over seven years with their delicious Italian dishes and a touch of Californian vibes. Besides delicious pasta like their Heirloom Carrot Agnolotti and Braised Lamb Spaghetti, La Palma is also famous for its 100 Layer Lasagna, filled by soft pasta and crispy bits.
Ristorante Sotto Sotto
Address: 120 Avenue Rd.
Imagine the perfect spot for a sophisticated and romantic dinner — that’s Sotto Sotto, offering an enchanting, candlelit atmosphere, filled with authentic Italian flavours, accompanied by delicious sips of wine. Bringing a piece of Italy to Toronto, this restaurant serves homemade potato gnocchi, artisanal zaccagni penne, egg noodle pasta, and a lot more.
Note that this spot has a fine dining dress code in effect, and its Toronto location’s washroom isn’t fully wheelchair accessible, so you might have to plan accordingly.
Giulietta
Address: 972 College St.
It is not a coincidence that this restaurant has made the Canada’s Best Restaurant list and the Michelin Guide several times. Led by chefs Rob Rossi and David Minicucci, Giulietta carries fresh, stand-out ingredients and a delicious menu, filled with classics like cacio e pepe and tagliolini al ragu.
Blu Ristorante
Address: 214 King St. W.
One of Toronto’s best upscale dining experiences, Blu Ristorante serves up traditional Italian dishes, handcrafted pasta, and authentic vibes. There is something for everyone at this spot, from classic bolognese to vegan zucchini pasta.
If you are looking for a romantic spot to take your boo, this restaurant might also be just the place, with an intimate ambience and live music every Friday and Sunday that can elevate any special occasion.
Dining and Cooking