HALL-ELUJAH: Toronto’s food hall scene on upswing

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Sometimes a food court won’t cut it — but a full-on, sit-down restaurant is too much. So then what?

Instead of resorting to takeout, why not find some middle ground and check out one of Toronto’s many food halls?

The city has become quite the destination for food, in general, but Toronto’s food hall scene has perhaps never been stronger.

“Toronto’s food halls are a reflection of the city itself: Deeply diverse and culinarily adventurous,” Ashley Rochefort, Destination Toronto’s media relations manager, told the Toronto Sun.

Chefs gathering under one roof to show off their passion, highlighting local flavours in vibrant cuisine, as they cater to diners who want variety, quality and a social experience that could be enjoyed with their favourite people is a win for everyone.

“From the historic St. Lawrence Market to modern concepts like Waterworks Food Hall and Wellington Market, these communal spaces bring a wide range of cuisines, chefs, flavours, ingredients, and food cultures together under one roof, turning a simple meal into an experience,” Rochefort said.

“They also offer the flexibility to suit different tastes and budgets, making food halls an easy and inviting way to step outside your comfort zone and discover something new.”

These are some of Toronto’s most notable food halls.

Wellington Market at The Well (486 Front St. W., lower ground level)

Home to more than 50 food outlets in a massive space, Wellington Market offers a curated mix of gourmet restaurants and fresh market fare that you can sit down and enjoy or take to go.

It’s also fully liquor-licensed and it’s pet-friendly, meaning you can have your furry friend join you for a wheel all while sipping while you peruse and explore all the options.

Waterworks Food Hall (50 Brant St.)

There are 25 artisans to choose from, serving up a diverse mix of freshly prepared, authentic cuisines and drinks under one gorgeous roof. (No, literally, the original Water Works building, hence the name, was constructed in the 1930s so prepare to be wowed by the art deco gates mixed with modern art.)

There are three bars that offer up wines, cocktails and craft beer and if a fancier dining experience is more up your alley, head to Lee Restaurant, the flagship spot of renowned Chef Susur Lee.

Chefs Hall (111 Richmond St. W.)

Think delicious bites and refreshing drinks — though having great company to indulge with is up to you.

Whether it’s happy hour, a delicious dinner or lunch meeting that you don’t want to rush from, the hall’s 16 local and unique restaurateurs have something for everyone.

Chefs Hall also hosts trivia nights and movie screenings if you’re looking for activities to go along with your sips and nibbles, and also boasts a large patio right on Richmond St. where you can dine while taking in the views of the Financial District’s towers.

Table Fare + Social (CIBC Square, 81 Bay St. 4th floor)

The aesthetics of this Toronto food hall may distract you — until the smells from the droolworthy restaurants take over.

The most intimate of setting — just eight total restaurants and bars — but that may allow you to sample a bit from all of them.

Queen’s Cross Food Hall (220 Yonge St. FA100)

What used to be the Richtree Marketplace on the lower level of the Eaton Centre is a diverse food hall from Oliver & Bonacini, featuring unique, chef-driven stalls, a café and bar, and various pop-ups for you to share or enjoy on your own.

So if you need a break from shopping and would prefer original restaurants over food court offerings, this is where it’s at.

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