Vegetarian Restaurants in Toronto
The days when a vegetarian had few menu options other than a limp iceberg salad are past.
Today meatless options in Toronto abound, and vegetarian restaurants are increasingly creative and delicious.
Fresh by Juice for Life. The Continental fare from Asian Buddha bowl to Middle Eastern starter plate, and great selection of energy elixirs and smart drinks at Fresh by Juice for Life will make meat look boring. 326 Bloor St. W, The Annex, Toronto, ON, M5S 1W5. 416/531–2635. www.freshrestaurants.ca.
Kings Café. In Kensington Market, Kings Café is spacious and open. This Chinese vegetarian- and health-oriented center of calm in the bustling market offers vegan delights like mushroom, cabbage, and ginger dumplings, and eggplant and broccoli stir-fry. Hot ginger tea is a must. Pick up some quality tea leaves in the little shop inside the restaurant. 192 Augusta Ave., Toronto, ON, M5T 2L6. 416/591–1340. www.kingscafe.com. No credit cards.
Live Organic Food Bar. If you want to try something completely different, check out "live food" at Live Organic Food Bar. Their vegetarian dishes are completely raw and free of dairy, wheat, and preservatives. Try the manicotti of zucchini noodles with cashew-spinach ricotta; the pizza with walnut and sweet potato crust, pesto, and almond Parmesan; and the chocolate avocado pie. Choose from a good selection of organic wines, cocktails, and beer to go with the meal. 264 Dupont St., at Spadina Ave., The Annex, Toronto, ON, M5R 1V7. 416/515–2002. www.livefoodbar.com. No credit cards.
Udupi Palace. If you visit the India Bazaar area, dine on authentic south Indian dosas (pancakes) at Udupi Palace. Paper-thin, and crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, they are stuffed with potato, onions, mustard seeds, and lentils. The mild spicing will appeal to all ages. Soups are loaded with veggies and sing of coconut and coriander. It's gently priced, with complete dinners for C$12 per person. 1460 Gerrard St. E, Toronto, ON, M4L 2A3. 416/405–8189. www.udupipalace.ca.
Urban Herbivore. Tucked inside an old house with an exposed-brick open kitchen, Urban Herbivore serves up rustic daily soups or lets diners design their own salads and sandwiches on house-made flax bread, all eaten while perched on stools at a high table. 64 Oxford St., Kensington Market, Toronto, ON, M5T 1P1. 416/927–1231. www.herbivore.to.
