As Canada gears up for a predicted tourism boom in 2024, new data reveals the nation’s top foodie hotspots, promising a feast for the senses and a surge in culinary tourism.
The surge in online restaurant reviews and the influence of platforms like TikTok, with over 50 million active users daily, are revolutionizing the foodie landscape. As culinary content continues to entice and inspire, Canada’s top foodie hotspots are set to draw in travellers eager to explore the diverse and delectable offerings.
Using data-driven insights, new research from food box subscription provider, Chefs Plate, has uncovered the ultimate list of the top foodie spots to visit in Canada.
If you’re planning your next gastronomic adventure, here are the must-visit destinations that will satisfy your cravings and ignite your taste buds.
1. Vancouver: The Ultimate Foodie Paradise
Topping the list is Vancouver, earning its crown as Canada’s best foodie city with a near-perfect rating. This vibrant metropolis boasts the highest number of restaurants rated 4 stars or above, an impressive 67.1%. From high-end dining venues to laid-back eateries, food trucks, and bustling farmers' markets, Vancouver’s diverse and thriving food scene cements its position as the ultimate destination for culinary enthusiasts.
2. Toronto: A Social Media Sensation
Toronto takes the second spot, renowned not only for its culinary diversity but also for its massive social media presence. With over 103,000 posts tagged #torontofood, the city’s culinary delights span the globe, offering authentic and innovative dishes that cater to every palate. Whether you’re exploring Chinatown, Little Italy, or the Distillery District, Toronto’s food scene is as dynamic as its cultural mosaic.
3. Victoria: Coastal Culinary Delights
Victoria shines in third place, celebrated for its coastal location and abundance of fresh seafood. With the highest number of restaurants per capita (67 per 10,000 residents), foodies can indulge in salmon, halibut, Dungeness crab, and local shellfish. From traditional West Coast cuisine to innovative fusion creations, Victoria’s seafood-centric dishes are a must-try for any culinary explorer.
Quality Over Quantity: Halifax and Quebec City
Halifax and Quebec City follow closely, offering a high number of restaurants rated 4 stars or above. Halifax, with its 56% rating, and Quebec City, with 52%, provide a blend of quality dining experiences that reflect their unique cultural and historical backgrounds. Whether savoring fresh Atlantic seafood or indulging in classic French-Canadian fare, these cities are culinary gems worth exploring.
Demand and Diversity: Longueuil’s Rising Star
While Longueuil has the fewest restaurants per capita, with only 11 per 10,000 residents, this only amplifies the demand and intrigue for its culinary offerings. As foodies flock to discover hidden gems in this burgeoning food scene, Longueuil is poised to become a rising star in Canada’s culinary landscape.
Plan Your Culinary Adventure
Whether you’re a foodie visiting Canada or a local in search of the best dining experiences, these top foodie cities promise unforgettable gastronomic journeys.
From the bustling streets of Vancouver to the coastal charm of Victoria, each destination offers a unique flavour and a memorable culinary adventure.
Be sure to book ahead to secure your spot at these sought-after eateries and make the most of Canada’s vibrant food scene in 2024.
