Since opening her first restaurant in Canada on Parliament Street in 2008, Nuit Regular has had a front-row seat to the city’s evolving appetite. “What sets Toronto apart is how open and curious people are about food,” says Regular, the executive chef and co-owner of a collection of Toronto-based Thai institutions. “Diners here are adventurous — they’re not just looking for a meal but an experience.”
In the 17 years since Sukhothai opened, the ways in which we dine have massively shifted (on-demand delivery, seasonally focused menus, social-media-influenced reservations) but what’s remained is Regular’s commitment to sharing the history and diversity of Thai cuisine. “It’s about creating experiences that go beyond a meal, where food becomes a gateway to joy, culture and storytelling,” she says. It’s best exemplified at her dine-in concepts: PAI, with a curry-forward, street-food-inspired menu, and Kiin, a technicolour take on royal Thai cuisine that boasts flower-shaped dumplings and confetti-like pomelo salad. But it’s not just Toronto patrons who’ve taken notice; her work has been recognized by Michelin Guide too, bestowing both restaurants with recommended distinctions for the last few years running.
The morning stop
Simit & Chai, 19 Duncan St.
“I always love to explore other cuisines, and Simit & Chai’s newest location is so convenient being right across from PAI — it makes it easy to pop over for a quick breakfast before I start my day. I absolutely love their shakshuka — it always hits the spot. The atmosphere at Simit & Chai is warm, homey and family-oriented, which feels very much like PAI.”
The family-friendly dinner
“One of the places my family and I go back to a lot is Mezes on the Danforth. I live in the east end, so it’s a convenient place for last-minute dinner plans when I just want to relax and hang out with my family and my kids. I love supporting local businesses, and Mezes has such a welcoming atmosphere and consistently delicious food, like the pickled octopus and the kria poikilia, which allows me to sample all their dips.”
The caffeine hit
Zav Coffee Shop, 2048 Danforth Ave.
“Zav Coffee on the Danforth has the perfect vibe for me. The atmosphere is so inviting, with great music, beautiful art, and the warmth of the baristas that makes every visit special. In the summer, I like to bring my dog and sit on the patio, enjoying my latte while people-watching.”
The best baked good
Wok Theory, 530 Dundas St. W.
“My favourite baked good in the city right now is the BBQ pork bun from Wok Theory. It’s the perfect combination of a little sweet and a little savoury, and I love the texture of the ‘snowy mountain’ crust on top. It’s one of those treats that I can’t resist whenever I’m in the area.”
The fancy dinner
“I recently went to Akin and enjoyed my experience there with the 10-course blind tasting menu. Their menu is so creative and innovative, especially the Anatomy of a Fish course, featuring a fish bone and tom yum gel. It’s incredibly inspiring to see the thought and passion that go into their creations.”
The industry innovator
Yan Dining Room, 195 Dundas St. W.
“I think Yan Dining Room is one of the most innovative restaurants in Toronto right now. Chef Eva Chin’s creativity shines through her approach to neo-Chinese cuisine, where she beautifully pays homage to classic Chinese dishes while incorporating modern techniques and local ingredients. Her ability to tell a story on the plate, while honouring the roots of Chinese culinary heritage, is something truly special.”
