WHERE CHEFS EAT
Where Chefs Eat is a weekly series that asks Toronto chefs and restaurant owners to name their favourite places to dine in the city: where they go for everything from weekend brunch to late-night cravings, fancy dinners to dessert.
This week: Michael Hawryluk, executive chef at ONE Restaurant.
Known for: Seasonal, seafood-forward dishes with creative, thoughtful flavours.
After opening the restaurant at the new W Toronto, executive chef Michael Hawryluk was lured away a year ago to the Hazelton Hotel, where he now heads up the kitchen at ONE Restaurant — one of Yorkville’s most enduring spots, beloved for nearly two decades of luxe yet playful fare like lobster spoons, Korean chicken tacos, truffle fries and Boston cream doughnuts.
“Some of our longest-standing dishes … still draw people back after all these years. At the same time, our menu evolves seasonally to highlight new ideas and ingredients. The international backgrounds of our culinary team bring fresh perspectives to the table, and that diversity shines in the food,” Hawryluk says. “It’s a mix of iconic signatures and new creations that keep ONE both familiar and exciting.”
So where does Hawryluk go for his own favourite foods? Read on for the Toronto culinary excellence that makes his mouth water every time.
Best bakery
Noctua, 3014 Dundas St. W.
noctua
“My go-to — everything they make is outstanding, but the true standout is their churro croissant. It’s coated in cinnamon sugar and stuffed with dulce de leche. It’s decadent, rich and absolutely worth the nap you’ll want afterwards.”
Hidden gem
Simpl Things, 269 Dunn Ave.
simpl
“This is a neighbourhood spot that doesn’t get enough attention. It’s laid-back, approachable and delivers consistently great food with a lot of heart. It feels like a place you stumble upon and then keep going back to.”
The last best thing you ate
Triple A Bar, 138 Adelaide St. E.
triple a
“This dive bar has been one of my haunts for the last decade; I always get the nachos. They’re not fancy, but sometimes those nostalgic, unfussy dishes hit the spot.”
Current obsession
Loga’s Corner, various locations
loga’s
“Their momos are the best in the city: pillowy, juicy and served with this incredible house-made hot sauce that’s fiery and addictive. I find myself craving them constantly.”
Fancy dinner
Enigma Yorkville, 23 St Thomas St.
enigma
“It really does stand out in Toronto’s fine dining scene. The level of creativity and execution makes every meal there feel like an experience. Their tasting menu is beautifully curated and constantly evolving, and the space itself feels intimate and luxurious.”
Comfort food
White Lily Diner, 678 Queen St. E.
white lily
“They do comfort food better than anyone. They grow their own produce, make everything in-house, and keep things simple but really well done. From their pastrami to their meatloaf sandwich or patty melt, everything is done with so much care. Their daily doughnuts are also worth a trip.”
Best dessert
Sunnys Chinese, 60 Kensington Ave.
sunnys
“The Hong Kong French toast! It’s layered with black sesame jam, custard, fried and finished with oolong tea condensed milk. Sweet, savoury and indulgent.”
Lunch spot
Elm Street Italian Deli, 15 Elm St.
elm
“Their Tuscan braised beef sandwich is a favourite of mine. It’s rich and flavourful, with tender beef that’s been cooked down until it melts apart. The rapini is also a nice touch.”
Best late-night craving spot
Rol San, 390 Spadina Ave.
rol son
“Their steamed black pepper short ribs are my go-to late-night order: so much umami, so much flavour. It’s a dish that hits all the right notes when you want something super tasty after hours.”
Best takeout
North of Brooklyn Pizzeria, various locations
north
“I always order their New York–style cheese. It’s simple, classic and consistently one of the best in the city.”
Favourite weekend breakfast place
Dad’s Breakfast and Coffee, 1473 Dundas St. W.
dads
“I go for their breakfast sandwich. It’s straightforward and satisfying, the kind of sandwich you want on a Sunday morning with a coffee in hand.”
Favourite coffee shop
Arabica, various locations
arabica
“I always go for one of their lattes. They are rich, creamy and exactly what I need to start the day.”
Best cocktail bar
The Comrade, 758 Queen St. E.
comrade
“I like my classic cocktails, and they make a perfect paper plane. The vibe is perfect for a nightcap, and they also have a great burger.”
Place I’m dying to try
Lunch Lady, 93 Ossington Ave.
lunch lady
“I’ve travelled through Southeast Asia, and their Vietnamese-inspired menu really speaks to me. I’m excited to sit down and try it for myself.”
