Exteriors can be deceiving. When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal out at a local restaurant, it’s what’s inside that really counts. Looking to try something new? We’ve rounded up some of the area’s hidden gems for an eclectic mix of tasty food, personalized service, great value, and enjoyable entertainment.
The Sociable Pub
Tucked away off of Yonge Street, The Sociable Pub is the place to be for East Coast comfort foods and live music. The menu offers a hodgepodge of Scottish, English, Irish and Acadian influences, including famous PEI mussels, Screech rum wings and fried-chicken boom-boom.
17380 YONGE STREET, NEWMARKET
sociablepub.com
Bijoy’s Restaurant
Bijoy’s is built upon a passion for cooking and a love for meeting new people. Come enjoy the intimate ambiance for afternoon tea on Wednesdays and Saturdays, or bring a date for some fine dining with an extensive menu featuring dishes like lobster tails with lemon butter sauce and lamb sirloin with rhubarb chutney.
42 TEMPERANCE STREET, AURORA
bijoysrestaurant.com
Chez Talal
If it’s authentic Mediterranean cuisine you’re after, you have to try Chez Talal on Davis Drive. Stop by for a lunch break or grab some chicken shawarma to go. If you’re lucky, you’ll have the chance to shake hands with Mr. Talal Hammoud himself, always there to greet his loyal customers with superb service and a welcoming smile.
103 DAVIS DRIVE, NEWMARKET
cheztalal.ca
Ristorante Orsini
It may not look like it on the outside, but once you step inside the doors of this recently renovated restaurant at the corner of Bayview and Mulock, you’ll be glad you did. The authentic Italian restaurant features contemporary décor with large, comfortable booths, and romantic chandeliers. The food tastes as good as it looks, too, but you’ll have to try it for yourself.
15700 BAYVIEW AVENUE, NEWMARKET
ristoranteorsini.com
Soup-Pa
This quaint restaurant on Newmarket’s Main Street takes soup du jour to a whole new level. As soon as you walk in the door, the staff will have you feeling right at home. Choose from a wide-variety of fresh soup and sandwich specials – from cranberry corn chowder to mushroom and blue cheese. The menu changes daily.
228 MAIN STREET, NEWMARKET
@soup.pa
The Crow’s Nest Pub
Also known as Newmarket’s best kept secret, The Crow’s Nest is located near historic downtown Newmarket, offering a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with your favourite pub grub specialties and a full selection of draught beer. Grab a table with a view of the river, or pull up a stool at the bar.
115 PROSPECT STREET, NEWMARKET
crowsnestnewmarket.com
Lobo Iberico
If you’re looking to try something different on date night, you’ll want to add Lobo Iberico to your list. Head over for Tapas Thursday and get three dishes for 30 dollars, plus half-priced sangria. They offer a vegan and gluten-free menu, and will even chip in 10 dollars towards your ride home after a fun evening out.
17766 LESLIE STREET, NEWMARKET
loboibericorestaurant.com
CrepeStar Dessert Café & Bistro
Crepes, waffles and coffee are always served with a smile at CrepeStar, hidden in the Lowe’s plaza at Yonge and Greenlane. Choose between a variety of sweet and savory dishes, packed full with all of your favourite ingredients. Bring your friends for games night on Tuesdays, and kick back with a cold beer, glass of wine or a Bailey’s-infused beverage.
18275 YONGE STREET, NEWMARKET
crepestardessert.com
by Charlotte Ottaway
