The 2014 Vacay.ca Top 50 Restaurants in Canada was determined by an esteemed roster of chefs, food industry professionals, connoisseurs, and travel and food writers. The selections were determined by this method:
- Each judge had 100 points to allocate between 5-10 restaurants (no one restaurant could receive more than 20 points on a single ballot)
- Judges were not allowed to vote for restaurants they are employed by or have an ownership interest in
- Judges must have eaten at the restaurants they selected between January 1, 2012 and April 29, 2014, or dined on the chef’s cuisine at an external event, or be reasonably confident that the quality of the food had not changed since their last visit if that last visit occurred prior to 2012.
- Choices were made with consideration of the quality of the food first and foremost. Service was secondary. Presentation, creativity, value to the consumer, wine list, and front-of-house performance were also factors considered in the voting.
The members of the stellar 2014 Vacay.ca Judges Academy include Chefs Vikram Vij, Connie Desousa, Patrice Demers, David Hawksworth, Michael Howell, Marc Lepine and more. Click on the “2014 Vacay.ca Voting Academy” tab in the box below to see the full roster of judges. Here are the 2014 Vacay.ca Top 50 Restaurants in Canada:
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1. RAYMONDS, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Chef: Jeremy Charles (co-owned with Jeremy Bonia)
Website: www.raymondsrestaurant.com.Cui
Telephone: 709-579-5800. Twitter:@Raymonds_CA
2013 Rank: 10
Price Range: A seven-course tasting menu runs $125 ($75 with wine pairing) and a five-course menu is $100 ($55 with wine pairing). A la carte entrees range from $40-$45 on the current menu.
2. BAR ISABEL, Toronto, Ontario
Chef/owner: Grant van Gameren
Website: barisabel.com. Cuisine: Spanish
Telephone: 416-532-2222. Twitter: @BarIsabel797
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $6-$59; primarily share plates
You Must Order: The Grilled Octopus ($34 for half; $59 for whole).
3. MAISON PUBLIQUE, Montreal, Quebec
Chef/owner: Derek Damman (co-owned by Jamie Oliver)
Website: www.maisonpublique.
Telephone: 514-507-0555. Twitter: @maisonpublique
2013 Rank: 57
Price Range: $8-$70
You Must Order: Steak Delmonico for Two ($70)
4. FARMER’S APPRENTICE, Vancouver, British Columbia
Chef: David Gunawan (co-owned with Dara Young)
Website: www.farmersapprentice.ca. Cuisine: Pacific Northwest
Telephone: 604-620-2070. Twitter: @gunawan_dave
2013 Rank: New entry
Price range: $4-$18; small plates
You Must Order: Menu changes weekly, but try the Curried Carrots ($13) if they’re on the menu.
5. VIJ’S, Vancouver, British Columbia
Chefs/owners: Vikram Vij, Meeru Dhalwala
Website: www.vijs.ca. Cuisine: Indian, Fusion
Telephone: 604-736-6664. Twitter:@Vijs_restaurant
2013 Rank: 3
Price Range: $24-$28.50 for main courses.
You Must Order: The famous lamb popsicles, which are a rack of lamb served with curry and meant for eating with your hands using the rib bone as a stick ($28).
6. HAWKSWORTH, Vancouver, British Columbia
Chef/owner: David Hawksworth
Website: www.hawksworthrestaurant.com.C
Telephone: 604-673-7000. Twitter: @HawksworthRest
2013 Rank: 12
Price Range: $29-$40 for main courses
You Must Order: Pacific Sablefish, lap cheong, soy braised daikon, pickled shiitake, crispy yam ($38).
7. BUCA, Toronto, Ontario
Chef: Rob Gentile
Website: www.buca.ca. Cuisine: Italian.
Telephone: 416-865-1600. Twitter: @bucatoronto
2013 Rank: No rank; 2012 ranked 31.
Price Range: $19-$49 for pasta dishes, entrées and pizzas.
You Must Order: Artisanal Pomodoro e Tartufo Pizza, with truffled burrata cheese and uncinato truffles ($29).
8. LE VIN PAPILLON, Montreal, Quebec
Chef/owners: David McMillan & Frederic Morin
Website: vinpapillon.com. Cuis
Telephone: None (no reservations taken). Twitter: @VinPapillon
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $6-20 per plate
You Must Order: Roasted Cauliflower ($13).
9. JOE BEEF, Montreal, Quebec
Chefs/owners: David McMillan and Frederic Morin
Website: www.joebeef.ca. Cuisine: Steak, Seafood, French
Telephone: 514-935-6504. Twitter:@joebeef
2013 Rank: 1
Price Range: $31-$50 for main courses.
10. AYDEN KITCHEN & BAR, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Chef/owner: Dale MacKay (Executive Chef Nathan Guggenheimer)
Website: www.aydenkitchenandbar.com. Cuisine: Contemporary French and Italian, Charcuterie
Telephone: 306 954 2590. Twitter: @aydenkitchenbar
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $19-$26
You Must Order: Classic Ayden Butcher Burger ($25).
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11. MALLARD COTTAGE, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Chefs/owners: Todd Perrin (chef), Stephen Lee (sommelier)
Website: www.mallardcottage.ca. Cuisine: Newfoundland
Telephone: 709-237-7314. Twitter: @Mallard_Cottage
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $7-$12 for appetizers, $24-$27 for main courses.
12. BAR BUCA, Toronto, Ontario
Chef/owner: Rob Gentile
Website: www.barbuca.com. Cuisine: Italian.
Telephone: 416-599-2822. Twitter: @barbucatoronto
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $3-$14, small plates and snacks
13. L’ABATTOIR, Vancouver, British Columbia
Chef: Lee Cooper
Website: www.labattoir.ca. Cuisine: West Coast
Telephone: 604-568-1701. Twitter: @LABATTOIR_VAN
2013 Rank: 23
Price Range: Small plates, $13-$29.
You Must Order: Warm Steelhead and Potato Salad ($15) — and a few cocktails from bar man Shaun Layton.
14. CHARCUT ROAST HOUSE, Calgary, Alberta
Chefs/owners: Connie DeSousa, John Jackson
Website: www.charcut.com. Cuisine: Charcuterie.
Telephone: 403-984-2180. Twitter: @CHARCUT
2013 Rank: 5
Price Range: $19-$26
You Must Order: Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwich. With pancetta, arugula, DeSousa family piri piri aioli-$15
15. HOPGOOD’S FOODLINER, Toronto, Ontario
Chef/owner: Geoff Hopgood
Website: hopgoodsfoodliner.com. Cuisine: East Coast.
Telephone: 416-533-2723. Twitter: @chefhopgood
2013 Rank: 30
Price Range: $10-$28 for entrees, many of them superb.
You Must Order: Noma chef Rene Redzepi called Hopgood’s snow crab ($28) from Cape Breton “one of the best mouthfuls I have eaten in North America.” That should be all the direction you need.
16. HOTEL HERMAN, Montreal, Quebec
Chefs/owners: Marc Alexandre Mercier, Dominic Goyet, Ariane Lacombe
Website: hotelherman.com. Cuisine: French
Telephone: 514-278-7000. Twitter: None.
2013 Rank: 90
Price Range: Share plates, $5-$18 each
You Must Order: Potato, Mullet Caviar, Bone Marrow ($12)
17. FLEUR DE SEL, Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Chef/owner: Martin Ruiz Salvador
Website: fleurdesel.net. Cuisine: French, Seafood.
Telephone: 902-640-2121. Twitter: @FleurdeSel_NS
2013 Rank: 21
Price Range: $21-$39 (tasting menu)
You Must Order: Lunenburg Scallops ($26)
18. DEER + ALMOND, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Chef: Mandel Hitzer
Website: www.deerandalmond.com. Cuisine: Contemporary, Fusion.
Telephone: 204-504 8562. Twitter: @deerandalmond
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $7-$28; share plates.
You Must Order: Kale and Kelp Beignets ($7), with hemp aioli and nori salt.
19. MODEL MILK, Calgary, Alberta
Chef: Justin Leboe
Website: www.modelmilk.ca. Cuisine: Canadian.
Telephone: 403 265-7343. Twitter: @ModelMilkBistro
2013 Rank: 7
Price Range: $19-$32 for main courses
You Must Order: Brome Lake Duck Confit Duck Leg, Cotechino, Smoked Meat, Truffle ($29).
20. SEGOVIA TAPAS BAR & RESTAURANT, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Chef: Adam Donnelly
Website: segoviatapasbar.com. Cuisine: Spanish.
Telephone: 204-477-6500. Twitter: @SegoviaTapasBar
2013 Rank: 98
Price Range: $6-$21; share plates.
You Must Order: The Chorizo & Apples ($7), a delicious appetizer that blends two beloved flavours.
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21. RACINES, Montreal, Quebec
Chefs/owners: Jorge da Silva, Simon Mathys
Website: www.racines.ca. Cuisine: Modern.
Telephone: 514-544-0444. Twitter: @Racinesmtl
2013 Rank: New entry
You Must Order: Veal Tartar with Mustard Cream ($15)
22. WEST, Vancouver, British Columbia
Chef: Quang Dang
Website: www.westrestaurant.com. Cuisine: West Coast.
Telephone: 604-738-8938. Twitter: @WestRestaurant
2013 Rank: No rank; No. 17 in 2012
Price Range: $29-$55 for main courses; $58 and up for tasting menus.
You Must Order: Haida Gwaii Smoked Sablefish ($36).
23. ATELIER, Ottawa, Ontario
Chef/owner: Marc Lepine
Website: www.atelierrestaurant.ca. Cuisine: Microgastronomy, Modern.
Telephone: 613-321-3537. Twitter: @MarcLepine
2013 Rank: 4
Price Range: $110
You Must Order: The menu changes daily. Dinner usually averages around three hours in length; there is a wine pairing available every evening ($60) of nine or 10 wines. The pairing is optional, and an extensive list of wines by the bottle and glass, as well as other drinks.
24. THE POINTE RESTAURANT AT WICKANINNISH INN, Tofino, British Columbia
Chefs: Warren Barr (executive chef) and David Sider (restaurant chef)
Website: www.wickinn.com/restaurant.html. Cuisine: Pacific Northwest.
Telephone: 250-725-3100. Twitter: @WickInnBC
2013 Rank: 41
Price Range: $28-$36 for dinner entrées; four-course tasting menu for $80.
You Must Order: Tofino Halibut ($36), served with wild rice, celery, black garlic, and Bamfield seaweed broth.
25. TOQUE!, Montreal, Quebec
Chef/owner: Normand Laprise
Website: www.restaurant-toque.com. Cuisine: French
Telephone: 514-499-2084. Twitter: @RestaurantToque
2013 Rank: 15
Price Range: $42-$52 for main courses.
You Must Order: Duck Magret ($46).
26. CLUB CHASSE ET PECHE, Montreal, Quebec
Chef: Claude Pelletier
Website: www.leclubchasseetpeche.com. Cuisine: French.
Telephone: 514-861-1112. Twitter: None.
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: Prices range from $17 – $40.
27. LANGDON HALL, Cambridge, Ontario
Chef: Jason Bangerter
Website: www.langdonhall.ca. Cuisine: Canadian.
Telephone: 519-740-2100. Twitter:@Langdon_Hall
Price range: $34-$49 for main courses.
You must order: White-tailed Ontario Deer with Chestnuts, Smoked Venison Bacon, Anjou Pear and more ($49).
28. AUBERGE DU POMMIER, Toronto, Ontario
Chef: Marc St. Jacques
Website: www.oliverbonacini.com/auberge-du-pommier.aspx. Cuisine: French
Telephone: 416-222-2220. Twitter: @Oliver_Bonacini
2013 Rank: 84
Price Range: $38-48 per main course
You Must Order: Foie Gras Mousse with Black Sesame Genoise, $27
29. CHIVES, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Chef/owner: Craig Flinn
Website: www.chives.ca. Cuisine: East Coast, Contemporary French.
Telephone: 902-420-9626. Twitter: @ChefCraigFlinn
2013 Rank: 20
Price Range: $23.99-$28.99
You Must Order: Moroccan-Spiced Braised Nova Scotia Lamb, with dried fruit cous cous, root vegetable tagine, wild cucumber yogurt and pistachios ($28.99).
30. IMPASTO, Montreal, Quebec
Chefs/owners: Stefano Faita, Michele Forgione
Website: impastomtl.ca. Cuisine: Family-inspired Italian
Telephone: 514-508-6508. Twitter: @IMPASTO_MTL
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $24-$49 per main course
You Must Order: Porchetta del Nonno ($26)
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31. ESPANA, Vancouver, British Columbia
Chef/owner: Neil Taylor (co-owned by Edward Perrow)
Website: www.espanarestaurant.
Telephone: 604-558-4040. Twitt
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: Small plates, $7-$12 for most dishes.
32. MAENAM, Vancouver, British Columbia
Chef: Angus An
Website: maenam.ca. Cuisine:
Telephone: 604-730-5579. Twitt
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: Chef’s Menu (five courses) costs just $32.50 per person and a Royal Thai Dinner (nine courses, served family style) costs $47.50 per person. A la carte options range from $15-$28 for dinner entrees.
You Must Order: It’s not on the regular menu, but the Crab and Betal Leave Wrap is one of the best things I’ve ever eaten. The sweetness of the crab is complemented, not overpowered, by An’s spicy touch. He knows just when he’s added enough and this dish really exemplifies that skill.
33. PRAIRIE HARVEST CAFE, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Chef: Mike McKeown
Website: prairieharvestcafe.
Telephone: 306-242-2928. Twitt
Price Range: Less than $20 for most dishes.
You Must Order: PH Lasagna, a signature dish made with local braised pork belly, braised beef short ribs, and lean ground beef with a variety of local vegetables.
34. MOMOFUKU SHOTO, Toronto, Ontario
Chefs/owners: Mitchell Bates, Sam Gelman, David Chang
Website: momofuku.com/toronto/
Telephone: 647-253-8000. Twitt
2013 Rank: 35
Price Range: $95-$150 depending on tasting menu
You Must Order: The Tasting Menu ($95-$150)
35. CANOE, Toronto, Ontario
Executive Chef: John Horne
Website: www.oliverbonacini.
Telephone: 416 364-0054. Twitter: @Oliver_
2013 Rank: 9
Price Range: $40-$49 for main courses.
You Must Order: New Brunswick Sturgeon-Braised Spring Creek Beef Cheeks, Savoy Cabbage, truffled potatoes ($42).
36. PATRIA, Toronto, Ontario
Chef: Stuart Cameron
Website: patriatoronto.com. Cu
Telephone: 416-367-0505. Twitt
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: Dinner menu is $14-$68. Brunch ranges from $10-$12.
You Must Order: Three-course brunch ($30), featuring several outstanding dishes, including Riojanito Y Hueves de Cordorniz and Tortilla de Patatas.
37. BONAVISTA SOCIAL CLUB, Upper Amherst Cove, Newfoundland & Labrador
Chef/owner: Katie Hayes
Website: bonavistasocialclub.
Telephone: 709-445-5556.
2013 Rank: 26
Price Range: Less than $20 for menu items.
You Must Order: Any one of the pizzas, topped with ingredients cultivated in the Bonavista Social Club’s garden.
38. SPLENDIDO, Toronto, Ontario
Chef/owner: Victor Barry
Website: www.splendido.ca. Cui
Telephone: 416-929-7788. Twitt
2013 Rank: 51
Price Range: $39-$45 for main courses; $125 for tasting menu.
You Must Order: Roasted Rack of Lamb ($45)
39. LE SERPENT, Montreal, Quebec
Chef: Michele Mercuri
Website: www.leserpent.ca/en/.
Telephone: 514-316-4666. Twitt
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: Lunch is from $19-$25. Dinner ranges from $18-$29.
You Must Order: Pasta. Several choices to choose from, including Linguini with almonds, cauliflower and truffle brunoise ($19-$28), Beet Macaroni ($16-$22) and Agnolotti ($17-$26).
40. CHANTECLER, Toronto, Ontario
Chef: Jonathan Poon
Website: www.
Telephone: 416 628-3586. Twitter: @
2013 Rank: 18
Price Range: $15-$21 for main courses
You Must Order: Spicy Shrimp ($13)
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41. LE BREMNER, Montreal, Quebec
Chefs: Chuck Hughes (executive chef) and Danny Smiles (chef de cuisine)
Website: crownsalts.com/lebremner. Cuisine: Seafood & Steak
Telephone: 514-544-0446. Twitter: @lebremnermtl
2013 Rank: No rank; No. 43 in 2012
Price Range: Price Range: $8-$30 for dinner items.
You Must Order: Kimchi Snow Crab on Crispy Rice Cake, $22
42. ARAXI, Whistler, British Columbia
Chef: James Walt
Website: www.araxi.com. Cuisine: West Coast, Contemporary Canadian.
Telephone: 604-932-4540. Twitter: @araxirestaurant
2013 Rank: 25
Price Range: Large plates range from $24.50-$42.50, and include vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices.
You Must Order: Saffron-crusted halibut caught in Haida Gwaii ($36.50), featuring a seafood and herb foam with chili oil.
43. RIVER CAFE, Calgary, Alberta
Chef: Andrew Winfield
Website: www.river-cafe.com. Cuisine: Canadian.
Telephone: 403-261-7670. Twitter: @RiverCafeYYC, @ChefWinfieldYYC
2013 Rank: 22
Price Range: Main courses range from $28-$49.
You Must Order: Olson’s High Country Bison Striploin ($48), served with smoked potato emulsion, huckleberry and bordelaise jus.
44. NORA GRAY, Montreal, Quebec
Chef: Emma Cardarelli
Website: noragray.com. Cuisine: Modern Italian.
Telephone: 514-419-6672. Twitter: @noragraymtl
2013 Rank: 42
Price Range: $19-$39 for main courses.
You Must Order: Deer Tartare appetizer ($14).
45. LOT 30, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Chef/owner: Gordon Bailey
Website: www.lot30restaurant.ca. Cuisine: Contemporary French.
Telephone: 902-629-3030. Twitter: @Lot30resto
2013 Rank: 89
Price Range: $23-$32 for main courses.
You Must Order: Butter-poached cove head lobster with roasted fingerling potatoes and lemon beurre blanc (market price).
46. HOI TONG SEAFOOD RESTAURANT, Richmond, British Columbia
Chef/owner: Yiu Tong Leung
Website: None. Cuisine: Chinese (Cantonese)
Telephone: 604-276-9229. Twitter: None
2013 Rank: 81
You Must Order: Alaskan King Crab Served Three Ways (market price).
47. MARKET, Calgary, Alberta
Chef: Dave Bohati
Website: marketcalgary.ca. Cuisine: Canadian.
Telephone: 403-474-4414. Twitter: @MARKET_Calgary
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $23-$66 for dinner entrees.
You Must Order: Wagyu Beef Sirloin ($32)
48. LA SALLE A MANGER, Montreal, Quebec
Chef: Samuel Pinard
Website: lasalleamanger.ca. Cuisine: Seafood.
Telephone: 514-522-0777. Twitter: @lasalleamanger
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $15-$29 for dinner entrees.
You Must Order: Try the Blood Pudding and Sausage ($25) or the Venison Steak with butternut squash purée, bacon, onions, berry sauce and greens ($29).
49. NOTABLE, Calgary, Alberta
Chef: Michael Noble
Website: notabletherestaurant.ca. Cuisine: Gourmet casual.
Telephone: 403-288-4372. Twitter: @NotableCalgary
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: Lunch and brunch menu prices range from $8-$24. Dinner prices are between $8-$37.
You Must Order: The Innisfail Lamb Sirloin, spring cassoulet, natural jus, pistou ($37). Another outstanding choice is the Grilled Alberta bison flank ($33).
50. RAW BAR BY DUNCAN LY, Calgary, Alberta
Chef: Duncan Ly
Website: www.hotelarts.ca/dining/raw-bar. Cuisine: Asian Fusion.
Telephone: 403-266-4611. Twitter: @HotelArtsYYC
2013 Rank: New entry
Price Range: $16-$27 for large plates.
You Must Order: Spicy Salmon and Tuna Tartar ($14), served with avocado, shredded lettuce, Asian pear and a puffed rice cracker.
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51. Front & Central, Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Website: http://www.frontandcentral.com/. Twitter: @FrontandCentral
52. Edulis, Toronto, Ontario
Website: http://edulisrestaurant.com/. Twitter: @EdulisToronto
53. Kazu, Montreal, Quebec
Website: http://kazumontreal.com/
54. Edna, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: http://ednarestaurant.com/. Twitter: @EdnaRestaurant
55. Pear Tree, Burnaby, British Columbia
Website: http://peartreerestaurant.net/. Twitter: @PeartreeBurnaby
56. Muse, Calgary, Alberta
Website: http://www.muserestaurant.ca/. Twitter: @MuseRestaurant
57. Park, Montreal, Quebec
Website: http://www.vicpark.com/en/healthy-gourmet.html. Twitter: @Restaurant_PARK
58. Sushi Kaji, Toronto, Ontario
Website: http://www.sushikaji.com/
59. Guu Izakaya, Toronto, Ontario
Website: http://guu-izakaya.com/toronto. Twitter: @GuuToronto
60. Big Crow, Toronto, Ontario
Website: http://roseandsonsbigcrow.com/. Twitter: @bigcrowbbq
61. Wildebeest, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: http://wildebeest.ca/. Twitter: @WildebeestYVR
62. Pastaga, Montreal, Quebec
Website: http://www.pastaga.ca/. Twitter: @MartinJuneau
63. Eiginsinn Farm, Singhampton, Ontario
Website: http://eigensinnfarm.blogspot.ca/
64. Deseo Bistro, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Website: http://deseobistro.com/. Twitter: @DeseoBistro
65. Teatro, Calgary, Alberta
Website: http://www.teatro.ca/. Twitter: @TeatroCalgary
66. Brooklyn Warehouse, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: http://brooklynwarehouse.ca/. Twitter: @BrooklynHalifax
67. Bao Bei, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: http://bao-bei.ca/. Twitter: @BaoBei1
68. Restaurant L’Initiale, Quebec City, Quebec
Website: http://www.restaurantinitiale.com/
69. Momofuku Daisho, Toronto, Ontario
Website: http://momofuku.com/toronto/daisho/. Twitter: @Momofuku
70. Le Crocodile, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: http://lecrocodilerestaurant.com/
71. Corso 32, Edmonton, Alberta
Website: http://corso32.com/. Twitter: @danielc0sta
72. Savour in the Garden, St. Andrews By-the-Sea, New Brunswick
Website: http://www.chefalexhaun.com/Savour/experience.html. Twitter: @ChefAlexHaun
73. The Chanterelle Inn, Baddeck, Nova Scotia
Website: http://www.chanterelleinn.com/
74. Sea Harbour, Richmond, British Columbia
Website: http://www.seaharbour.com/
75. The Bison, Banff, Alberta
Website: http://www.thebison.ca/. Twitter: @TheBisonBanff
76. La Pentola, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: http://www.lapentola.ca/. Twitter: @La_Pentola
77. Foxley, Toronto, Ontario
No website
78. RGE RD, Edmonton, Alberta
Website: http://www.rgerd.ca/. Twitter: @RGE_RD
79. Burdock & Co., Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: http://burdockandco.com/. Twitter: @BurdockAndCo
80. Bistro 7 1/4, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Website: http://www.sevenandaquarter.ca/. Twitter: @ChefAlex
81. Tavern 1903, Edmonton, Alberta
Website: http://tavern1903.com/. Twitter: @Tavern1903
82. Rossmount Inn, St. Andrews By-the-Sea, New Brunswick
Website: http://rossmountinn.com/. Twitter: @ChrisAerni
83. Pidgin, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: http://www.pidginvancouver.com/. Twitter: @pidginvancouver
84. Le Laurie Raphael, Quebec City, Quebec
Website: http://laurieraphael.com/en/. Twitter: @lelaurieraphael
85. Mercer Hall Inn, Stratford, Ontario
Website: http://mercerhall.ca/. Twitter: @MercerHallInn
86. Pintxos, Montreal, Quebec
Website: http://www.pintxo.ca/. Twitter: @PintxoRestoMTL
87. Le Filet, Montreal, Quebec
Website: http://www.lefilet.ca/en/
88. Moishes, Montreal, Quebec
Website: http://moishes.ca/. Twitter: @moishesmontreal
89. The Pearl Cafe, Cavendish, Prince Edward Island
Website: http://www.thepearlcafe.ca/. Twitter: @pearl_eatery
90. North 53, Edmonton, Alberta
Website: http://north53.ca/. Twitter: @north_53
91. Dan Restaurant, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: http://danrestaurant.com/
92. Sabai Sabai, Toronto, Ontario
Website: http://www.sabaisabaito.ca/. Twitter: @sabaisabaito
93. Fishbones, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Website: http://www.fishbones.ca/. Twitter: @FishbonesBar
94. Helena, Montreal, Quebec
Website: http://www.restauranthelena.com/. Twitter: @HelenaMtl
95. The Gabardine, Toronto, Ontario
Website: http://www.thegabardine.com/. Twitter: @TheGabardine
96. The Marc, Edmonton, Alberta
Website: http://www.themarc.ca/. Twitter: @themarcedmonton
97. Sirenella, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Website: http://www.sirenella.ca/
98. Madre, Montreal, Quebec
Website: http://www.groupemnjr.com/. Twitter: @marionavarretej
99. Fusion Grill, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Website: http://www.fusiongrill.mb.ca/. Twitter: @fusiongrill
100. Sidewalk Citizen, Calgary, Alberta
Website: http://sidewalkcitizenbakery.com/. Twitter: @SidewalkSunny
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ATLANTIC CANADA REGION
Stephen Lee (Regional Chair), Newfoundland & Labrador (Twitter: @Mallard_Cottage)
Stephen is the co-owner and sommelier of Mallard Cottage in Quidi Vidi Village of St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador.
Kyumin Hahn, Newfoundland & Labrador (@KyuminHahn)
Kyumin is the sous chef at Raymonds in St. John’s.
Jonathan Howse, Newfoundland & Labrador (@JonFixedCoffee)
Jon is the co-owner and barista of Fixed Coffee & Baking, a popular coffee house on historic Duckworth Street in downtown St. John’s.
Kathy Jollimore, Nova Scotia (@kathyjollimore)
Kathy is the owner and operator of EatHalifax.ca, a popular food blog focused on the culinary scene in the Nova Scotia capital.
Michael Howell, Nova Scotia (@ChefMHowell)
Michael is the executive director at Devour! The Food Film Fest, the consulting executive chef at Green Turtle Club, and the corporate chef at Sustainable Blue.
Andrew Stevens, Nova Scotia (@thebeefgeek)
Andrew is Culinary Instructor at NSCC, a restaurant consultant and industry advocate. In his spare time he eats beef.
Norm Zeledon, Prince Edward Island
Norm is the executive chef of Annie’s Table Culinary Studio, a unique culinary tourism attraction that involves experiential cooking with PEI’s bounty of products.
Ross Munro, Prince Edward Island (@ChefRossPEI)
Ross is the chef and owner of PEI Culinary Adventures, a tour company that gives visitors the chance to catch and cook their meals while visiting Canada’s smallest province.
Jesse Vergen, New Brunswick (@JesseVergen)
Jesse is the executive chef of the acclaimed Saint John Ale House, which ranked 39th in the 2012 Top 50 Restaurants in Canada. Jesse brings farm-to-table dining to a casual pub atmosphere.
QUEBEC REGION
Dustin Gilman (Regional Chair), Montreal (@FoodGuyMTL)
Dustin is the owner and operator of Food Guy Montreal, a popular food blog focused on the culinary scene in Montreal.
Patrice Demers, Montreal (@Patrice_Demers)
Patrice is a celebrated pastry chef, cookbook author and celebrity TV chef. Formerly of Les 400 Coups, Patrice is now operating Patrice Pâtissier in Montreal’s Little Burgundy neighbourhood.
Martin Juneau, Montreal (@martinjuneau)
Martin is the Canada Gold Medal Award-winning chef and owner of acclaimed Pastaga.
Olivier Perret, Montreal (@ChefPerret)
Olivier is the executive chef at Renoir Restaurant in the Sofitel Montreal. He hails from France’s Burgundy region and has worked in the celebrated Le Bouchon in Lyon, France.
Sharman Yarnell, Montreal (@showtimesharman)
Sharman has worked professionally in television, radio and theatre for over 20 years. Her broadcast credits include The Chris Robinson Travel Show and top-rated Showtime on CJAD (Astral Radio).
Richard Taitt, Montreal (@BistroNolah)
Richard is the chef and owner of Bistro Nolah. The Montreal restaurant takes its name from an acronym for New Orleans, a city that is an inspiration for Bistro Nolah’s cuisine.
John Winter Russell, Montreal (@winter_russell)
John has worked at notable restaurants on both the east and west coast of canada. And will opening a restaurant in Montreal before the end of the year.
Mayssam Samaha, Montreal (@mayssamaha)
Mayssam runs the Will Travel for Food blog and is also an accomplished food writer. Will Travel for Food is a finalist for the Saveur Best Food Blog awards.
ONTARIO REGION
Rebecca LeHeup, Prince Edward County and Toronto (Regional Chair; @OntarioCulinary)
Rebecca is the executive director at Ontario Culinary Tourism Alliance.
Anthony Walsh, Toronto (@ChefWalsh)
Anthony is the corporate executive chef at Oliver & Bonacini, owner of several fine restaurants in the Greater Toronto Area, including Auberge du Pommier and Canoe.
Jonathan Gushue, Toronto (@jonathangushue)
Jonathan is the principal of Gushue Hospitality Inc. and the owner of a forthcoming restaurant in downtown Toronto. He is the former executive chef of Langdon Hall, where he earned a reputation as one of North America’s finest culinary talents.
Matt Basile, Toronto (@fidelgastros)
Matt is the host of the Travel & Escape show “Rebel Without a Kitchen.” His food truck Fidel Gastro’s has been hugely popular in Toronto. He also owns the restaurant Lisa Marie and its complementary food truck, Priscilla.
Marc Lepine, Ottawa (@MarcLepine)
Marc is the brilliant chef and owner of Atelier, which has ranked in the top five of the Vacay.ca Top 50 Restaurants in Canada in 2012 and 2013. Marc’s take on microgastronomy has earned him rave reviews and legions of fans.
Geoff Hopgood, Toronto (@chefhopgood)
Geoff is the executive chef and owner of Hopgood’s Foodliner in the Roncesvalles neighbourhood of Toronto. A Nova Scotian, Geoff also worked at the Black Hoof and the Hoof Cafe.
John Placko, Toronto (@johnplacko)
John is a culinary consultant and culinary instructor at Modern Culinary Academy and Humber College.
Paul Brans, Toronto (@ChefBrans)
Paul is the executive chef at Artisan, an Oliver & Bonacini restaurant in downtown Toronto.
Gizelle Lau, Toronto (@TorontoEats)
Gizelle is a food and travel writer/photographer whose work is published in Toronto Life and other publications. She is also a digital content and social media specialist.
Renee Suen, Toronto (@rssuen)
Renee writes about restaurants and culinary issues for Toronto Life and is a Ph.D candidate at the University of Toronto in Cardiovascular Sciences.
Anne Desbrisay, Ottawa (@CapitalDining)
Anne is a restaurant critic for Ottawa Magazine and the managing editor of Taste & Travel magazine.
Rod Charles, Toronto (@rodalcharles)
Rod is the deputy editor at Vacay.ca and a judge for the Ontario Culinary Awards. He is the former travel editor at the Huffington Post Canada.
Joseph Caturay, Toronto (@LittleRoomInc)
Joseph is a principal owner of Little Room Agency, which won the gold medal for innovation at the 2013 Media Innovation Awards.
ALBERTA/SASKATCHEWAN/MANITOBA REGION
Jody Robbins (Regional Chair), Alberta (@Jody_Robbins)
Based in Calgary, Jody is an award-winning writer for Vacay.ca and other publications.
Deborah Son (co-Regional Chair), Manitoba (@sulkison)
Deborah was the 2013 Vacay.ca Foodie of the Year winner and is a law student at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg.
Adam Donnelly, Manitoba (@SegoviaTapasBar)
Adam is the owner and executive chef at Segovia Tapas Bar, a popular Winnipeg restaurant in the city’s Osborne Village neighbourhood.
Robin Summerfield, Manitoba (@RSummerfield)
Robin is a journalist, food and travel writer based in Winnipeg. She also operates the popular food blog PegCityGrub.com as well as notethetime.wordpress.com.
Colin Enquist, Manitoba (@cenquist)
Colin is a lover of food and beer and recent Creative Communications graduate. He blogs at cenquist.com and co-hosts the beer based podcast Pub Chat.
Connie Desousa, Alberta (@CHARCUT)
Connie is the co-owner and chef of CHARCUT Roast House in Calgary, which ranked No. 5 in the 2013 Vacay.ca Top 50 Restaurants in Canada. She was a finalist for Season 1 of “Top Chef Canada” and a judge on Season 3.
John Jackson, Alberta (@CHARCUT)
John is the co-owner and chef of CHARCUT Roast House in Calgary. He was the former executive chef at the St. Regis Hotel in San Francisco. Along with business partner Connie Desousa, John is opening charbar in Calgary’s East Village in 2015.
JP Pedhirney, Alberta (@Chef_Pedhirney)
JP is the executive chef at Calgary’s Muse Restaurant, which ranked 17th in the 2013 Vacay.ca Top 50 Restaurants in Canada Dining Guide. JP will soon open Starbelly in the Seton area of Calgary.
Liane Faulder, Alberta (@EatMyWordsBlog)
Liane is the outstanding food columnist for the Edmonton Journal.
Julie Van Rosendaal, Alberta (@dinnerwithjulie)
Julie is a cookbook author, food columnist for the Calgary Eyeopener on CBC Radio, food editor of Parents Canada magazine, writer for Swerve, Avenue, the Calgary Herald, and others.
Dan Clapson, Alberta (@dansgoodside)
Dan is a food and travel writer for the Food Network Canada and Avenue Magazine. He is also the author of “StreetEats: Calgary”. You can find his work on his blog dansgoodside.com.
Dale MacKay, Saskatchewan (@chefdalemackay)
Dale is the owner and executive chef at Ayden Kitchen and Bar, an acclaimed restaurant in Saskatoon. Dale was the Season 1 winner of “Top Chef Canada” and the former executive chef at Daniel Boulud’s Lumiere in Vancouver.
Cary Bowman, Saskatchewan (@luckybastardSK)
Cary is the co-owner of Saskatoon’s Lucky Bastard Distillery, a boutique maker of spirits such as rum, vodka and gin. Lucky Bastard’s products have won international awards and are increasingly popular in Western Canada.
BRITISH COLUMBIA AND TERRITORIES REGION
Adrian Brijbassi (Regional Chair), Vancouver/Toronto (@AdrianBrijbassi)
Adrian is the founder of Vacay.ca and a digital media expert. He founded the Top 50 Restaurants in Canada to celebrate Canadian culinary achievements. He is an award-winning writer and frequent CTV News guest.
Shaun Layton, Vancouver (@shaunlayton)
Shaun is the esteemed bartender at L’Abattoir. He is considered to be one of the top mixologists in Canada.
Vikram Vij, Vancouver (@Vijs_restaurant)
Vikram is the chef and owner of Vij’s, the internationally recognized restaurant in Vancouver’s South Granville neighbourhood. He is a TV personality who appears on CBC’s “Dragons’ Den,” Food Network Canada’s “Top Chef Canada” and “Chopped Canada.” Vikram and his wife, Meeru Dhalwala, also own and operate Rangoli, My Shanti and the food truck, Vij’s Railway.
David Hawksworth, Vancouver (@ChefHawksworth)
David is the chef and proprietor of Hawksworth, an award-winning restaurant in the luxurious Rosewood Hotel Georgia in downtown Vancouver. He has worked at Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe and is considered one of Canada’s finest chefs.
Terry Pichor, Vancouver and Sonora Resort (@SonoraResort)
Terry is the executive chef at Sonora Resort, a Relais & Chateaux property in British Columbia’s Discovery Islands. Terry also blogs for the Vancouver Sun.
Lucais Syme, Vancouver (@LaPentolaChef)
Lucais is the chef and co-owner of La Pentola della Quercia, an outstanding Italian restaurant located in the Opus Hotel in Vancouver’s Yaletown neighbourhood.
Matt MacIsaac, Vancouver and Tofino
Matt is an owner of Tacofino, the popular food truck in Vancouver, Tofino and Victoria, and of Commissary restaurant in East Vancouver. He is also a founding partner of MMCAP Fund Inc.
Lee Man, Vancouver (@cnklhd)
Lee is a food writer for Vancouver Magazine who is widely recognized as a leading expert in Chinese cuisine in Canada.
Kasey Wilson, Vancouver
Kasey is the co-host of the Best of Food and Wine Show on AM 650 radio and is a member of the British Columbia Restaurant Hall of Fame. She has worked as the food editor of Wine Access magazine and has written for numerous publications.
Sophia Cheng, Vancouver (@ChengSophia)
Sophia is a PR consultant and food aficionado. Many of her clients are top-rated restaurants in British Columbia.
Katie Marti, Revelstoke (@KatieMarti)
Katie is a writer for Vacay.ca and adventure traveller based in Revelstoke in central British Columbia.
INTERNATIONAL JUDGES
Janine Kennedy (Chair of the Vacay.ca Top 50 Restaurants), Ireland (@CookWithCraic)
Janine is a professional cook and Vacay.ca Food Columnist who is originally from Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. Follow her culinary adventures on her blog CookingWithCraic.com.
Niamh Shields, England (@eatlikeagirl)
Niamh is the author of the cookbook “Comfort & Spice” and has been named one of the Britain’s 500 Most Influential People by the Sunday Times. You can find her on her popular blog EatLikeAGirl.com.
Steve Dolinsky, United States (@stevedolinsky)
Steve has won 12 James Beard awards for food journalism and is a reporter for ABC 7 in Chicago. He has recently started The Feed Podcast with renowned chef Rick Bayless. Steve is also a Regional Academy Chair for the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Arlene Stein, Germany (@ArleneStein)
Arlene is the director of the Terroir Symposium, an annual gathering of the global food industry in Toronto. She co-founded Terroir in 2006.
Janet Boileau, Singapore (@TasteTravelMag)
Janet is the publisher of Taste & Travel magazine, which is focused on culinary travel experiences around the world. She is starting an Asian-focused version of the magazine.
[/tab][/tabgroup]
2013
Thank you, Canada, for voting for the best restaurants in the nation!
The public votes have been added to those of the Vacay.ca Judges Academy to determine the 2013 Top 50 Restaurants in Canada. You will find the Top 50 results below, followed by 11 videos that break down the selections in segments of five restaurants, along with a discussion about omissions and rising stars in the Canadian culinary scene. Runner-up restaurants 51-100 are listed lower down. You will also see tabs for the Public Voting rankings, the 2012 results, the judges’ bios and the Foodie of the Year Contest.
You can comment on your favourite restaurant by clicking on the balloon below its listing and typing in your thoughts.
Restaurants 1-5 are Discussed by Judges Adrian Brijbassi, Rebecca LeHeup, Renee Suen, John Placko
Who Didn’t Make the Cut and Why? Find Out Here
Numbers 6-10 Feature Favourites in Toronto and St. John’s
Restaurants 11-15 Include Outstanding Chefs!
People’s Choice Winner is in this Section — Restaurants 16-20!
Countdown of Numbers 21-25 Begins in Whistler, B.C.!
We Are Halfway There! Restaurants 26-30!
Restaurants Numbers 31-35 Will Delight!
Numbers 36-40 are Here!
Numbers 41-45 Announced!
The Countdown Begins: 46-50
NOTE: You may have to clear your computer’s cache to see updates on the tables within the tab below.
[tabgroup][tab title=”2013″]
1. JOE BEEF , Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.joebeef.ca. Twitter: @joebeef
2012 Rank: 3
Read about why one reader loves Joe Beef
2. LANGDON HALL, Cambridge, Ontario
Website: www.langdonhall.ca. Twitter: @Langdon_Hall
2012 Rank: 2
3. VIJ’S, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.vijs.ca. Twitter: @Vijs_restaurant
2012 Rank: 1
See a video of Vikram Vij cooking in Niagara, Ontario, and read about what being named Vacay.ca’s No. 1 in 2012 meant to him
4. ATELIER, Ottawa, Ontario
Website: www.atelierrestaurant.ca. Twitter: @MarcLepine
2012 Rank: 5
5. CHARCUT ROAST HOUSE , Calgary, AB
Website: www.charcut.com. Twitter: @CHARCUT
2012 Rank: New entry
6. ACADIA, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.acadiarestaurant.com. Twitter: @AcadiaToronto
2012 Rank: 37
7. MODEL MILK, Calgary, Alberta
Website: www.modelmilk.ca. Twitter: @ModelMilkBistro
2012 Rank: New entry
8. LES 400 COUPS, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.les400coups.ca. Twitter: @Les400Coupsmtl
2012 Rank: 6
See the Vacay.ca video and read more about Les 400 Coups
9. CANOE, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.oliverbonacini.com/Canoe.aspx. Twitter: @Oliver_Bonacini
2012 Rank: 8
10. RAYMONDS, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador
Website: www.raymondsrestaurant.com. Twitter: @Raymonds_CA
2012 Rank: New entry
11. ROUGE, Calgary, Alberta
Website: www.rougecalgary.com. Twitter: @RougeCal
2012 Rank: 9
Read more and see a video about the wonderful Rouge in Calgary
12. HAWKSWORTH, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.hawksworthrestaurant.com. Twitter: @HawksworthRest
2012 Rank: 21
13. PASTAGA, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.pastaga.ca. Twitter: @martin_juneau
2012 Rank: New entry
14. RUBY WATCHCO, Toronto, Ontario
Website: rubywatchco.ca. Twitter: @RubyWatchco, @CHEF_LYNN
2012 Rank: 19
15. TOQUE!, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.restaurant-toque.com. Twitter: @RestaurantToque
2012 Rank: 36
16. MONO CLIFFS INN, Mono Centre, Ontario
Website: www.monocliffsinn.ca.
2012 Rank: 29
17. MUSE, Calgary, Alberta
Website: www.muserestaurant.ca. Twitter: @MuseRestaurant
2012 Rank: New entry
Read more about Muse in Vacay.ca
18. CHANTECLER, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.restaurantchantecler.ca. Twitter: @ChanteclerTO
2012 Rank: New entry
19. EDULIS, Toronto, Ontario
Website: edulisrestaurant.com. Twitter: @EdulisToronto
2012 Rank: New entry
20. CHIVES, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: www.chives.ca. Twitter: @ChefCraigFlinn
2012 Rank: New entry
21. FLEUR DE SEL, Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Website: fleurdesel.net.
2012 Rank: New entry
22. RIVER CAFE, Calgary, Alberta
Website: www.river-cafe.com. Twitter: @RiverCafeYYC, @ChefWinfieldYYC
2012 Rank: New entry
23. L’ABATTOIR, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.labattoir.ca. Twitter: @LABATTOIR_VAN
2012 Rank: 7
Read Vacay.ca’s report on L’Abattoir
24. LA CABANE A SUCRE DU PIED DE COCHON, St. Benoit de Mirabel, Quebec
Website: cabaneasucreaupieddecochon.com. Twitter: @CabanePDC
2012 Rank: 26
25. ARAXI, Whistler, British Columbia
Website: www.araxi.com. Twitter: @araxirestaurant
2012 Rank: 12
26. BONAVISTA SOCIAL CLUB, Upper Amherst Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador
Website: bonavistasocialclub.com.
2012 Rank: New entry
Read Vacay.ca’s coverage of the Bonavista Social Club
27. LAWRENCE, Montreal, Quebec
Website: lawrencerestaurant.com. Twitter: @lawrencefood
2012 Rank: New entry
28. Q HAUTE CUISINE, Calgary, Alberta
Website: www.qhautecuisine.com. Twitter: @QHauteCuisine
2012 Rank: New entry
29. BROOKLYN WAREHOUSE, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: brooklynwarehouse.ca. Twitter: @BrooklynHalifax
2012 Rank: New entry
30. HOPGOOD’S FOODLINER, Toronto, Ontario
Website: hopgoodsfoodliner.com. Twitter: @chefhopgood
2012 Rank: New entry
31. PANACHE at Auberge Saint-Antoine, Quebec City, Quebec
Website: www.saint-antoine.com/en/dining. Twitter: @aubsaintantoine
2012 Rank: New entry
Read more about Panache and Auberge Saint-Antoine in Vacay.ca
32. PARK, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.vicpark.com. Twitter: @ChefAntonioPark
2012 Rank: New entry
33. MORRIS EAST, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: http://www.morriseast.com. Twitter: @morriseast
2012 Rank: New entry
34. WECZERIA, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
CLOSED IN FALL 2013
2012 Rank: New entry
35. SHOTO (Momofuku), Toronto, Ontario
Website: momofuku.com. Twitter: @momofuku
2012 Rank: New entry
36. YOURS TRULY, Toronto, Ontario
Website: yours-truly.ca. Twitter: @YoursTruly229
2012 Rank: New entry
37. WATERFRONT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR, Kelowna, British Columbia
Website: www.waterfrontrestaurant.ca. Twitter: @WaterfrontWines
2012 Rank: New entry
Read more about Waterfront Wines
38. DESEO BISTRO, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Website: deseobistro.com. Twitter: @DeseoBistro
2012 Rank: New entry
39. SAINT JOHN ALE HOUSE, Saint John, New Brunswick
Website: www.saintjohnalehouse.com. Twitter: @SJAH_NB
2012 Rank: New entry
Read more about the Saint John Ale House and how its patrons helped to get it onto the Top 50 list
40. THE BLACK HOOF, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.theblackhoof.com. Twitter: @TheBlackHoof
2012 Rank: 4
41. THE POINTE at the Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, British Columbia
Website: www.wickinn.com/restaurant.html. Twitter: @WickInnBC
2012 Rank: 27
Read more about what to enjoy at the Wickaninnish Inn
42. NORA GRAY, Montreal, Quebec
Website: noragray.com.
2012 Rank: New entry
43. TEATRO, Calgary, Alberta
Website: www.teatro.ca. Twitter: @TeatroCalgary
2012 Rank: New entry
44. LEE, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.susur.com/lee. Twitter: @SusurLee
2012 Rank: New entry
45. MEMORIES FINE DINING, Regina, Saskatchewan
Website: memoriesdining.com. Twitter: @Thomas195855
2012 Rank: New entry
Read more praise for Memories from Canadians, including former NHL and CFL greats
46. THE BLUE DOOR, Fredericton, New Brunswick
Website: www.thebluedoor.ca. Twitter: @theblue_door
2012 Rank: New entry
Read more about the Blue Door and how it has charmed Fredericton
47. CUCINA MARKET BISTRO, Calgary, Alberta
Website: eatcucina.com. Twitter: @EatCucina
2012 Rank: New entry
48. OPTIONS JAZZ LOUNGE (at the Brookstreet Hotel), Kanata, Ontario
Website: www.brookstreet.ca/optionsbar.php. Twitter: @OptionsJazz
2012 Rank: New entry
Read more about the Brookstreet Hotel and its draw for NHL fans going to Ottawa Senators games
49. DUCK, DUCK, GOOSE, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Website: duckduckgoosetapas.com.
2012 Rank: New entry
50. BAO BEI, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.bao-bei.ca. Twitter: @BaoBei1
2012 Rank: 16
RUNNER-UP RESTAURANTS 51-100
51. Splendido, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.splendido.ca
52. Le Crocodile, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: lecrocodilerestaurant.com
53. Momofuku Noodle Bar, Toronto, Ontario
Website: momofuku.com/toronto/noodle-bar-to/
Read more about Momofuku on Vacay.ca
54. Murray Street Kitchen, Ottawa, Ontario
Website: murraystreet.ca
55. Wildebeest, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.wildebeest.ca
Read more about Wildebeest on Vacay.ca
56. Odile, Hull/Gatineau, Quebec
Website: www.odile.ca
57. Maison Publique, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.maisonpublique.com
58. Bestellen, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.bestellen.ca
59. Au Pied de Cochon, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.restaurantaupieddecochon.ca
60. Kazu, Montreal, Quebec
Website: kazumontreal.com
61. Eden at Rimrock Resort, Banff, Alberta
Website: www.rimrockresort.com/dining.html
Read more Vacay.ca coverage about the Eden experience
62. Inn at Bay Fortune, Bay Fortune, Prince Edward Island
Website: www.innatbayfortune.com
63. Laurie Raphaël, Quebec City, Quebec
Website: www.laurieraphael.com/en
64. JaBistro, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.jabistro.com
65. Richmond Station, Toronto, Ontario
Website: richmondstation.ca
66. Le Canard Goulu, Quebec City, Quebec
Website: www.canardgoulu.com/VilleBistro.htm
67. Cafe Boulud, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.cafeboulud.com/toronto
68. Playa Cabana, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.playacabana.ca
69. Corso 32, Edmonton, Alberta
Website: corso32.com
70. Cassis Bistro, Calgary, Alberta
Website: www.thecassisbistro.ca
71. The Pear Tree, Burnaby, British Columbia
Website: peartreerestaurant.net
72. Bearfoot Bistro, Whistler, British Columbia
Website: bearfootbistro.com
73. Fable Kitchen, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: fablekitchen.ca
74. Willow on Wascana, Regina, Saskatchewan
Website: www.willowonwascana.ca
Read about Regina’s emerging culinary scene
75. Blue Water Cafe and Raw Bar, Vancouver, British Columbia Website:www.bluewatercafe.net
76. Maison Boulud, Montreal, Quebec
Website: maisonboulud.com/montreal
77. Prairie Harvest Cafe, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Website: prairieharvestcafe.com
78. Ristorante a Mano, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: www.ristoranteamano.ca
79. Glas Wine Bar, Toronto, Ontario
Website: glaswinebar.com
80. Newfound Sushi, Corner Brook, Newfoundland & Labrador
Website: newfoundsushi.com
81. Hoi Tong Seafood, Richmond, British Columbia
Contact: No website, telephone: 604-276-9229, address: #160-8191 Westminister Hwy.
82. The Grove, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.thegroveto.com
83. Chambar, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.chambar.com
84. Auberge du Pommier, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.oliverbonacini.com/auberge-du-pommier.aspx
85. Zambri’s, Victoria, British Columbia
Website: www.zambris.ca
86. Cava, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.cavarestaurant.ca
87. La Quercia, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.laquercia.com
88. L’Initiale, Quebec City, Quebec
Website: www.restaurantinitiale.com
89. Lot 30, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Website: www.lot30restaurant.ca
90. Hotel Herman, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.hotelherman.com
91. Sobo, Tofino, British Columbia
Website: www.sobo.ca
92. The Mad Platter Bistro, Spruce Grove, Alberta
Website: www.themadplatterbistro.com
93. The Chanterelle Inn, Baddeck, Nova Scotia (Cape Breton)
Website: www.chanterelleinn.com
Read more Vacay.ca coverage of the Chanterelle Inn
94. Storm Mountain Lodge, Banff, Alberta
Website: www.stormmountainlodge.com
See more Vacay.ca coverage, including amazing photos, of Storm Mountain Lodge
95. Treadwell Farm-to-Table, Port Dalhousie, Ontario
Website: www.treadwellcuisine.com
96. L’Orignal, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.restaurantlorignal.com
Read more from the Vacay.ca report on L’Orignal
97. Le Baccara, Gatineau, Quebec
Website: http://www.casinosduquebec.com/lacleamy/en/restaurants-bars/le-baccara
98. Segovia Tapas Bar, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Website: segoviatapasbar.com
Read the Vacay.ca report on Segovia
99. ZenKitchen, Ottawa, Ontario
Website: www.zenkitchen.ca
Read the Vacay.ca report on ZenKitchen
100. Cheese Curds Gourmet Burgers + Poutiniere, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Website: cheesecurdsburgers.com
[/tab][tab title=”2012″]
1. Vij’s, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.vijs.ca. Phone: 604-736-6664. Cuisine: Indian.
Price range: $24-$28.50 for main courses.
Steve Dolinsky says: “Seriously, can anyone in North America even come close to offering the nuance and complexity of Indian food like Vikram Vij? He does it in one of the most laid-back dining rooms, despite the seriousness with which he approaches regional Indian food, while constantly checking in on guests — even serving snacks to those waiting outside. I have literally re-routed my flights to have enough layover time in Vancouver so I could make the pilgrimage.”
Read Vacay.ca’s report on Vij’s and more coverage of the Top 50 Restaurants List
You must order: Wine-marinated Lamb Popsicles ($28.50).
2. Langdon Hall, Cambridge, Ontario
Website: www.langdonhall.ca. Phone: 519-740-2100. Cuisine: Canadian.
Price range: $34-$49 for main courses.
Adrian Brijbassi says: “Jonathan Gushue demonstrates that Canadian cuisine exists — and it wouldn’t look out of place at the head of an international table of dishes.”
See the video and read more of the Vacay.ca report on Langdon Hall
You must order: White-tailed Ontario Deer with Chestnuts, Smoked Venison Bacon, Anjou Pear and more ($49).
3. Joe Beef, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.joebeef.ca. Phone: 514-935-6504. Cuisine: Steak & Seafood.
Price range: $31-$50 for main courses.
Steve Dolinsky says: “One of the great things about the new wave of talent in the food industry has been the emergence of ‘fuck you’ restaurants. I mean that in a good way. They’re the places where you dine at the chef’s whim. There are no substitutions; you don’t get the dressing on the side; the eggs are already jellied and the offal is already poached. If you don’t like it, too bad, because there’s a line of people waiting to get in who are eager to explore the menus, jam-packed with bold flavours. Joe Beef is a little like this.” Click to read more.
You must order: Whatever is the special that night 😉
4. The Black Hoof, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.theblackhoof.com. Phone: 416-551-8854. Cuisine: Charcuterie.
Price range: Share plates, $8-$25
Renée Suen says: “Once a culinary mecca for the offal bits, ‘The Hoof’ as it’s so affectionately called, has soared to new heights now that chef de cuisine Brandon Olsen is at its helm. Although the focus is still on the nasty bits (and they still don’t take reservations), brilliant numbers like Blood Custard and Foie & Nutella have become new signatures beside the standard Tongue on Brioche that its ex-executive chef (Grant van Gameren) made famous.”
You must order: Foie & Nutella ($25).
5. Atelier, Ottawa, Ontario — PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER 2012!
Website: www.atelierrestaurant.ca. Phone: 613-321-3537. Cuisine: Avant Garde Fine Dining.
Price range: Set price for tasting menu: $95.
Vacay.ca Reader Melanie Jadore says: “What a great idea — a top 50 list for Canadian restaurants! If I only get one vote, I have to vote for Atelier in Ottawa, the best meal of my life.”
You must order: The tasting menu, of course! It’s constantly changing.
See the video and read the Vacay.ca report on Atelier
6. Les 400 Coups, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.les400coups.ca. Phone: 514-985-0400. Cuisine: Contemporary French.
Price range: Up to $30 for main courses.
Gizelle Lau says: “From start to finish, Les 400 Coups in Montreal takes you through a journey that teases your senses with sophisticated techniques and concepts that translate into beautifully crafted, artful dishes in flavour and appearance. Using top-quality produce and playful textures to traditional profiles, you’ll find concepts like Beef Tartare with Mustard Ice Cream or Mackerel served with spaghetti made from squash. Although it’s less than two years old, if the inspiration that’s fuelling Les 400 Coups is as determined as it seems on the plate, then we’ll see this Vieux-Montreal restaurant soar into the same space as greats like one of its biggest inspirations: Eleven Madison Park.”
See the video and read the Vacay.ca report on Les 400 Coups
You must order: Beef Tartare with Mustard Ice Cream ($15).
7. L’Abattoir, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.labattoir.ca. Phone: 604-568-1701. Cuisine: West Coast.
Price range: Small plates, $13-$29.
Renée Suen says: “Solid. From a good cocktail list to an even better savoury menu that’s tight and simply very, very good. Throw in an order of the pan-fried veal sweetbreads on toast and the meal becomes stellar.”
Read Vacay.ca’s report on L’Abattoir
You must order: Warm Steelhead and Potato Salad ($15) — and a few cocktails.
8. Canoe, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.oliverbonacini.com/Canoe.aspx. Phone: 416-364-0054. Cuisine: Canadian.
Price range: $39-$49 for main courses.
Paul Brans says: “I really believe that without Canoe the whole idea of ‘Canadiana’ cuisine would not exist — at least not to the same extent or with the same amount of popularity. It has been a leader in championing local food and what Canadian cuisine truly has to offer.”
You must order: Aged Bone-in Ontario Beef Tenderloin ($49).
9. Rouge, Calgary, Alberta
Website: www.rougecalgary.com. Phone: 403-531-2767. Cuisine: French.
Price range: $36-$84 for main courses.
Diana Ng says: “It is hard to imagine the high level of fine dining and perfection from the unassuming and aged exterior of this restaurant converted from a house built in 1891, but chef Paul Rogalski and his team churn out creative dishes with impeccable ingredients from local suppliers and their on-site garden.”
See the video and read the Vacay.ca report on Rouge
You must order: AAA Alberta Beef Chateaubriand, Bone Marrow and Foie Gras Spring Roll, Potato Rösti ($84 for Two).
10. Duke of Duckworth, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador
Website: www.dukeofduckworth.com. Phone: 709-739-6344. Cuisine: Pub Grub.
Price range: $7.99-$14.99.
Cailin O’Neil says: “The Duke of Duckworth has recently exploded in popularity due to its spotlight on the CBC series ‘Republic of Doyle.’ But dedicated patrons will tell you it’s long been the best pub in downtown St. John’s AND it has the town’s best fish and chips with their not-so-secret ingredient dressing!”
Read the Vacay.ca report on the Duke of Duckworth
You must order: The fish & chips. The fish & chips. Everyone: The fish & chips! ($10.99 and up).
11. Sushi Kaji, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.sushikaji.com. Phone: 416-252-2166. Cuisine: Japanese.
Price range: $100-$120 for tasting menus (no a la carte).
Gizelle Lau says: “Incredible sushi and omakase menu – Kaji opens your eyes to what true Japanese sushi/food can be when there’s the care, attention, detail and passion.”
You must order: With only two choices, you may as well spend the extra $20 and get the Takumi omakase menu for $120.
12. Araxi, Whistler, British Columbia
Website: www.araxi.com. Phone: 604-932-4540. Cuisine: West Coast/Canadian.
Price range: $22.50-$45 for main courses.
You must order: Wild Alaskan Scallops ($34.50).
13. Tempest, Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Website: www.tempest.ca. Phone: 902-542 0588. Cuisine: Italian.
Price range: $12.95-$24.95 for main courses.
Janine MacLean says: “Wolfville may be one of Nova Scotia’s best kept secrets — and so is this restaurant. I have never had a meal here I haven’t absolutely loved.”
You must order: Roasted Nova Scotia Sea Bass ($24.95).
14. Splendido, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.splendido.ca. Phone: 416-929-7788. Cuisine: Contemporary French and Italian.
Diana Ng says: “As soon as you step into this contemporary fine-dining institution, you are warmly greeted by smiling and helpful staff. The globally inspired menu is expertly executed, like the Roasted Lamb Rack, shoulder and merguez with Niagara eggplant, preserved lemon, yogurt and arugula.”
Price range: $39-$45 for main courses; $125 for tasting menu.
You must order: Roasted Rack of Lamb ($45)
15. Bearfoot Bistro, Whistler, British Columbia
Website: www.bearfootbistro.com. Phone: 604-932-3433. Cuisine: West Coast.
Price range: Three-course menu, $49; tasting menu, $98.
Barry O’Neill says: “World class. The chef’s five-course tasting menu is a pleasure to your palate.”
You must order: Vancouver Island Black Cod (part of set menu or $10 supplement to add).
16. Bao Bei, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.bao-bei.ca. Phone: 604-688-0876. Cuisine: Chinese fusion.
Price range: Small plates, $6-$20.
You must order: Kick Ass House Fried Rice (price changes daily, but roughly $14).
17. West, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.westrestaurant.com. Phone: 604-738-8938. Cuisine: West Coast.
Price range: $29-$55 for main courses; $58 and up for tasting menus.
You must order: Haida Gwaii Smoked Sablefish ($36).
18. Guu Izakaya, Toronto, Ontario
Website: guu-izakaya.com/toronto. Phone: 416-977-0999. Cuisine: Japanese.
Price range: $1.50-$9.80 per item.
You must order: Salmon Tataki ($6.80).
19. Ruby WatchCo, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.rubywatchco.ca. Phone: 416-465-0100. Cuisine: Canadian/Comfort Food.
Price range: Menu changes daily; expect to pay in the range of $49 for a four-course meal.
Steve Dolinksy says: “Local celeb chef Lynn Crawford (formerly of The Four Seasons) has returned home after stints in NYC, and has created a comfy restaurant where everything is served family-style. Her passion for local farmers is made evident on every menu.” Click to read more
You must order: Whatever they’re serving that night!
20. Basho, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador
Website: No website. Phone: 709-576-4600. Cuisine: Japanese.
Price range: $26-$32 for entrées.
Candice Walsh says: “Japanese restaurant, plus other food options. Best dining experience I’ve had in St. John’s.”
You must order: Nigiri and Sushi Roll Assortment ($26).
21. Hawskworth, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.hawksworthrestaurant.com. Phone: 604-673-7000. Cuisine: Contemporary Canadian.
Price range: $26-$38 for entrées.
Renée Suen says: “Refined and welcomed return to fine dining. Good for those seeking elegance, but somewhat safe.”
You must order: 48-hour Beef Shortrib ($16).
22. Yew, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.yewrestaurant.com. Phone: 604-692-4939. Cuisine: Mostly Seafood.
Price range: $24-$45 for main courses.
Katie Marti says: “This is a high-end, fine-dining experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously thanks to special promotions like Wine Down Sundays, where every bottle of wine is 50% off all day.”
You must order: Lobster poutine ($17).
23. Ensemble, Vancouver, British Columbia — CLOSED IN AUGUST 2012 🙁
Website: www.ensemblerestaurant.com. Phone: 604-569-1770. Cuisine: French Contemporary.
Price range: Small plates ranging from $8-$19
Adrian Brijbassi says: “Dale MacKay was named Top Chef Canada for many reasons, all of them on display at this terrific neighbourhood restaurant in the West End.”
Click here to read more of the Vacay.ca report on Ensemble
You must order: Potato Gnocchi ($12) and Black Cod with Thai broth ($18).
24. Salmon n’ Bannock, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.salmonandbannock.net. Phone: 604.568.8971. Cuisine: First Nations
Price range: $10-$24.
Kathleen Kenna says: “No one prepares or serves wild salmon like their all-First Nations staff. Or wild game. Or wild berries. The inventiveness of the menu here is matched by the intimacy of dining amid original First Nations art. There is no other place on the West Coast where you can nibble on candied or smoked salmon under a Haida canoe. This is the only aboriginal restaurant in Vancouver, and the only one I know in Canada that boasts sustainable and local produce in a fine-dining setting. Salmon n’ Bannock also serves Saskatoon berry cider and wines from Nk’Mip Cellars, Canada’s first winery owned and operated by aboriginals.”
You must order: The Salmon and Bannock, duh 🙂 ($16).
25. Salmon House on the Hill, West Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.salmonhouse.com. Phone: 604-926-3212. Cuisine: Seafood.
Price range: $23-$45 for main courses.
Barry O’Neill says: “Famous alder-grilled salmon and spectacular views.”
You must order: Steamed Whole Dungeness Crab ($45).
26. Cabane a Sucre (Martin Picard), Montreal, Quebec
Website: http://cabaneasucreaupieddecochon.com.
Phone: No phone; email reservations only: reservations@cabaneasucreaupieddecochon.com.
Cuisine: Sugar shack cuisine with maple syrup produced on site.
Price range: Set prices based on menu (seasonal; usually around $50 per person)
You must order: Triple Pork, Maple Meille Feuille (menu and prices change often)
27. Pointe Restaurant at the Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, British Columbia
Website: www.wickinn.com/restaurant.html. Phone: 250-725-3100. Cuisine: Pacific Northwest.
Price range: $32-$39 for entrées.
Adrian Brijbassi says: “This magical place overlooking the Pacific not only has one of the best settings for a restaurant in the world, it delivers as classy a dining experience as you’ll find anywhere in Canada.”
You must order: Dungeness Crab (market price).
28. Scaramouche, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.scaramoucherestaurant.com. Phone: 416-961-8011. Cuisine: French.
Price range: $36-$47 for entrées.
You must order: Rack of Lamb ($46) and Coconut Cream Pie ($13).
29. Mono Cliffs Inn, Mono, Ontario
Website: www.monocliffsinn.ca. Phone: 519-941-5109. Cuisine: Country-style fine dining.
Price range: $26-$60 per person.
Barry O’Neill says: “Finest in country dining; great variety of food; shrimp linguine is to die for.”
Read the Vacay.ca report on the Mono Cliffs Inn
You must order: Shrimp Linguine ($14).
30. Lighthouse Picnics, Ferryland, Newfoundland & Labrador
Website: www.lighthousepicnics.ca. Phone: 709-363-7456. Cuisine: Casual Picnic-Style.
Price range: About $20 per picnic lunch.
Candice Walsh says: “Outdoor dining experience with a picnic basket. Best lemonade ever created.”
You must order: Seafood Club Sandwich, fresh lemonade.
31. Buca, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.buca.ca. Phone: 416-865-1600. Cuisine: Italian.
Price range: $15-$25 for entrées.
Diana Ng says: “There is no shortage of Italian restaurants in Toronto, but Buca stands out from the crowd with its proficient use of seasonal ingredients to create simple and light dishes. Pizza is thin and crispy, so much so that servers cut them with scissors.”
You must order: Artisanal Pizza (prices range).
32. Rotisserie Romados, Montreal, Quebec
Website: No website. Phone: 514-849-1803. Cuisine: Portuguese Chicken and Pastries.
Price range: $1 Pastries to $10 Chicken Combo Plates.
Jodi Ettenberg says: “A Portuguese roast chicken restaurant on a busy corner of Montreal’s Plateau area, guaranteed to give you the best chicken you’ve had in years. Whenever I return to Montreal, I go here first. It’s fantastic.”
You must order: The half chicken combo plate (spicy, $10) and natas (Portuguese egg tart, $2).
33. Chambar, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.chambar.com. Phone: 604-879-7119. Cuisine: Modern French.
Price range: $22-$33 for entrées.
You must order: Moules Frites ($22).
34. Murray Street, Ottawa, Ontario
Website: www.murraystreet.ca. Phone: 613-562-7244. Cuisine: Charcuterie and more.
Price range: $10-$80 (for a whole pig head).
Jodi Ettenberg says: “Ottawa meat fans rejoice: this is a restaurant to call your own. Great roasted meats, perfectly cooked vegetables, strong drinks … and the poutine was also one of the best I’ve ever had. As a Montrealer, I’m sad to report it was outside Quebec!”
You must order: Spaetzle Poutine ($11) and “Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes” ($24).
35. Java Jack’s, Rocky Harbour, Newfoundland & Labrador
Website: javajacksnl.wordpress.com. Phone: 709-458-3004. Cuisine: East Coast Organic
Price range: $16.95-$24.95 for entrées.
Candice Walsh says: “Most ingredients grown in their organic garden. Amazing prices, best $9 fishcakes in the world!”
You must order: Said Fishcakes served with relish ($7.95)
36. Toque, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.restaurant-toque.com. Phone: 514-499-2084. Cuisine: French.
Price range: $42-$48 for main courses.
You must order: Duck Magret ($48).
37. Acadia, Toronto Ontario
Website: www.acadiarestaurant.com. Phone: 416-792-6002. Cuisine: Southern.
Price range: $15-$24 for main courses.
Renée Suen says: “Innovative, meticulous and modern. Chef Matt Blondin mixes low country cuisine with Acadian ingredients (more from the Canadian side of the equation), all matched by scrumptious cocktails and casual southern hospitality.”
You must order: Cornbread with Sweet Potato and Bourbon Butter ($8).
38. Au Pied de Cochon, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.restaurantaupieddecochon.ca. Phone: 514-281-1114. Cuisine: Quebecois.
Price range: $20-$45.
Renée Suen says: “Gluttony in excess, but a great reward if one steers clear from the stereotypical gut-busting staples and order the other well-balanced (but still gut-busting) menu items.”
You must order: Foie Gras Hamburger ($36).
39. Biff’s Bistro, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.oliverbonacini.com/Biffs-Bistro.aspx. Phone:416-860-0086. Cuisine: Modern French.
Price range: $9-$32 for Les Entrees; $21-$36 for Bistro Specialties.
You must order: Beef Bourguignon ($26).
40. Le Champlain at Fairmont Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City, Quebec
Website: www.fairmont.com/frontenac/GuestServices/Restaurants/LeChamplain.htm. Phone: 866-540-4460. Cuisine: French.
Price range: $39-$43 for main courses.
Barry O’Neill says: “Le Champlain features French and continental gastronomy in an intimate atmosphere of old-world charm and hospitable service, best Caesar Salad made at your table which is a show in itself.”
You must order: Rack of Lamb ($49).
41. Sobo, Tofino, British Columbia
Website: www.sobo.ca. Phone: 250-725-2341. Cuisine: Seafood.
Price range: $29-$33 for main courses.
Adrian Brijbassi says: “Who knew fish tacos could be addictive? Although with the number of hippies in Tofino, it shouldn’t be a surprise that they’d find a way.”
You must order: Those Killer Fish Tacos ($6.50).
42. Blue Water Café and Raw Bar, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.bluewatercafe.net. Phone: 604-688-8078. Cuisine: Seafood and Sushi.
Price range: $29.50-$43.50.
You must order: Sashimi Platter ($34).
43. Le Bremner, Montreal, Quebec
Website: crownsalts.com/lebremner. Phone: 514-544-0446. Cuisine: Seafood & Steak.
Price range: $12-$28 (mostly share plates).
You must order: Raw scallop and foie gras torchon ($28).
Read the Vacay.ca report on Le Bremner
44. Origin, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.origintoronto.com. Phone: 416-603-8009. Cuisine: Tapas, with flavours from around the world.
Price range: Share plates, $6-$79 (for a 32-ounce rib-eye steak).
Diana Ng says: “Showcasing ingredients with minimal manipulation while creating outstanding and unforgettable dishes is easier said than done, but Origin blows the goal out of the water. The selection from the mozzarella bar, namely the Bufala mozzarella with confit tomatoes, basil and preserved lemon, is the perfect example.”
You must order: Tostones with Guacamole ($8).
45. Wine Bar, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.9church.com. Phone:416-504-9463. Cuisine: Tapas.
Barry O’Neill says: “Great tapas, changes daily from the finest local and naturally raised food produced by Ontario farmers.”
Price range: Average price of the tapas dishes comes in around $13.
You must order: Cheddar and Apple Salad ($8) — if it’s on the menu that day.
46. Rim Rock Café, Whistler, British Columbia
Website: www.rimrockwhistler.com. Phone: 877-932-5589. Cuisine: West Coast.
Price range: $28-$46.
You must order: Ahi Tuna ($38).
47. Heron’s West Coast Kitchen at the Fairmont Waterfront, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: www.fairmont.com/waterfront/GuestServices/Restaurants/HeronsWestCoastKitchen.htm
Telephone: 866-540-4509/504-691-1991. Cuisine: West Coast.
Price range: $26-$39 for main courses.
You must order: Spot Prawn Ravioli ($35).
48. Pic Nic Wine Bar, Toronto, Ontario
Website: www.picnicwinebar.com. Phone: 647-435-5298. Cuisine: Charcuterie and French.
Price range: $14-$23.
You must order: Charcuterie Plate ($22).
49. Inn at Bay Fortune, Bay Fortune, Prince Edward Island
Website: www.innatbayfortune.com. Phone: 902-687-3745 or 888-687-3745. Cuisine: Contemporary Creative Canadian.
Price range: $50 a la carte for three courses, also a five-course tasting menu $70 per person, Chef’s Table, a room within the kitchen, available to one party each evening seven courses $85, 10 courses $110, and 12 courses $125.
You must order: Grilled Lobster Straight From Fortune Harbour (part of set menus).
50. L’Orignal, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.restaurantlorignal.com. Phone:514-303-0479. Cuisine: Canadian, with a twist of different cultures.
Price range: $27-$38 for main courses
Adrian Brijbassi says: “While it’s not the most celebrated restaurant in the city, L’Orignal is one of Montreal’s stars. Oysters, interesting selection of meats, boozy cocktails, a fun atmosphere and a late-night menu make it a standout.”
Read more from the Vacay.ca report on L’Orignal
You must order: Lamb Mini Burgers ($9).
[/tab][tab title=”Judges”]
John Placko – Culinary Director, Modern Culinary Academy, Mississauga
Julie Van Rosendaal – Dinner with Julie blogger, Calgary-based food columnist
[/tab][tab title=”Voting”]
How the Voting Works
The members of the Vacay.ca Judging Academy can nominate between 5-10 restaurants. They must have dined at the restaurant at least once since January 1, 2011 and cannot be a current employee or owner of any restaurant they nominate. The judges’ selections and the public votes will be used to determine the Top 50 Restaurants in Canada in 2013. Votes from the Vacay.ca Judging Academy will comprise roughly 75% of the final results. The public vote will comprise roughly 25% of the final results.
The 2013 Top 50 Restaurants in Canada List will include a second annual People’s Choice winner (won last year by Ottawa’s Atelier).
[/tab][tab title=”History”]
How the Top 50 Restaurants in Canada Originated
Vacay.ca felt that the food industry in Canada deserves to be spotlighted and celebrated. Our editorial staff decided a Top 50 Restaurants List was long overdue and we enlisted several of the most respected food writers in North America to help us establish the inaugural list. The judges run the gamut of food writers, chefs and food aficionados, allowing us to have a range of cuisines and budget choices available. Because Vacay.ca is a travel site, it was important to include judges who specialize in value dining as well as gourmet culinary experiences. Our top 50 list is a mix of cuisines, price ranges, regions and experiences, but what each one of the restaurants on our list has in common is excellence. This is proof that Canada’s dining scene is diverse and dynamic, and full of wonderful food choices and talented chefs that we can be proud of.
[/tab][tab title=”Public Vote Standings”]
Vicky Vacay
Owner
Public Vote: Top 50 Restaurants in Canada
Canadians have voted for the best restaurants in Canada. Here are the final standings.
Source: https://vacay.ca/top-50-restaurants
Mono Cliffs Inn
Mono Centre, Ontario
Langdon Hall
Cambridge, Ontario
Atelier
Ottawa, Ontario
Muse
Calgary, Alberta
Q Haute Cuisine
Calgary, Alberta
Saint John Ale House
Saint John, New Brunswick
Joe Beef
Montreal, Quebec
CHARCUT
Calgary, Alberta
Ruby Watchco
Toronto, Ontario
Vij's
Vancouver, British Columbia
[/tab][tab title=”Foodie of the Year”]
VACAY.CA AWARDED A TRIP + DINNER!
Thousands of Canadians voted in the Vacay.ca 2013 Foodie of the Year Contest, which featured a Grand Prize of Dinner for Two at the restaurant of the winner’s choice, round-trip airfare to the closest major airport to that restaurant’s destination city and a luxury hotel stay! See our Contests page for details!
Congratulations to Deborah Son of Winnipeg who became Canada’s Foodie of the Year on May 23, 2013!
The finalists included:
Jo-Ann Samo of Montreal
Holly Fraughton of Halifax
Congrats to all three!
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